How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

If you lose your keys It is an ideal idea to have a spare. To make this more convenient we have created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with chips and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to function properly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, like a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip that is used in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.

There are five different kinds of car keys replacements keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before getting help with replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The next kind of car key is a transponder key with an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have as it discourages theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and the transmitter in order to start your car and take it away.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is usually higher than a standard key, but only because it must be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be able to program the transponder key, however it is best to ask your dealership if they can do so also. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to give you the most competitive price.

Many automakers have their own distinct anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key works with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. They are a little more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

Whatever type of key you have, it is crucial that you do not attempt to break into your own car replacement keys near me yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics won't help you if they see signs that your car has been forced open or damaged. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car with a laser-cut key, you'll notice that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a traditional key made of metal. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a particular depth along the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you can avoid being locked out if you happen to misplace your key while you're at work or running around.

If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to call a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to create these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases, your local hardware store isn't able to create a new car key replacement key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears similar to a standard drill to cut the key's metal, which will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the full rebuild of the key.

Keep a spare car key in your car just in case. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, the chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start the car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process however it's best to have your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about your specific car, which can ensure it's done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was a pain However, now it's an actual issue. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

These new keys come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but the most expensive one is one that has the transponder and mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" has a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare key fob that is in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower Cost of Replacement Car key than the price a dealership would charge, which could save you $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a key and fob that's the same year, model and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.