How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

It is a good plan to purchase a spare key before you lose yours. To make this easier we have put together a guide to the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big issue. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's much more costly to replace lost keys.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest option. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. This type of key doesn't have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to function properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your car. They're not as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be duplicated using specialized tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to connect with their car. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is inserted in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to begin. This feature is great because it stops theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and drive away with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder keys is typically higher than a traditional key, but this is due to the fact that it has to be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be competent to program a transponder key, but it is recommended to ask your car dealership whether they are able to program it as well. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to provide you with a more competitive price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options prior to purchasing your next cheap car key replacement. You will be able to figure out what type of key is compatible with it, and whether or not it requires a remote to unlock it.

Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

It is essential that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the type of key. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out particularly if they notice indications that your vehicle has been altered or forced to open. This can make it very difficult to obtain a replacement, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you're not at risk of getting locked out if you misplace your key while you're working or running around.

If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to create a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code will be extracted from the VIN, and the key will be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you happen to lose your car key. That way, you'll be able to call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to have it towed back at the dealership.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start the car without a key. These keys contain special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it's best to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it's an electronic car key replacement key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves can take them. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your vehicle and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement car keys cost near me from a firm such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company that can program your vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than the price a dealership will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that has the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.