How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

Before you lose your key it is an ideal idea to have a spare made. To make it easier we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key fob replacement near me key was not a big problem. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't have a chip and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.

The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively low however programming the chips in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you have a backup key and that you keep it in a safe place.

There are five kinds of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder key with an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be done with specialized tools that are only accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is near to your vehicle, or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic car key replacement code which signals your car key replacement price - go to website, to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a standard key, but that is because it needs to be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be able to program the transponder key, however it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it also. They are the best option as they have the best experience in programming these keys and will offer you a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is important to research the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires a remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. However, they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if the key is cloned, it will not work with your car.

It is crucial to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to help, especially if they see evidence that the car has been tampered with or forced to open. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to take or lose than a traditional key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from the top. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while doing errands or working.

If you own a laser-cut key, then you'll need to talk to an expert locksmith with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store will not be able to make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to cut the key's metal. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will be extracted from the VIN and the key will then be cut to match the specifications of your car.

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

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car key. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.

Fobs

You may not have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys come with computer chips that must be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

Getting your car key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, based on the type of key you drive and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key replacement for car you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was a pain However, now it's a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves are able to steal them. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" features a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have a spare fob that works in your car and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist that offers programming for many vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges which could save you up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that has the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.