How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

It is a good plan to order an extra key before you lose yours. To make this easier we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge deal. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace a lost key.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to get an auto locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a basic metal key at a cost of $50 or Replacement Car Keys Cost less. This kind of key does not have a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys include transponders, or chips, which must be programmed properly. This can only be done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip in modern cars can cost you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.

It's important to identify the type of car key you have before seeking help. A more traditional, older car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and is only possible with specialized tools that are accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. This can cost up to $500 or more based on the car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is close to your vehicle, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to start. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter to turn your car on and drive away with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a standard key, but only because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with many locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer about whether they can do it. This is because they often have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to give you a more competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. They are a little more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your car.

It is essential that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out, especially if they see indications that your vehicle has been altered or forced open. This can make it very hard to get replacement parts, so be certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to take or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a groove which cuts to a specific depth across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out if your key is lost while doing errands or working.

If you have a laser-cut key, then you will need to contact an expert locksmith with the equipment to create these kinds of replacements. In most cases the hardware store you visit won't be able make you a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these types of keys.

A locksmith will use an apparatus that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the metal of the key. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys are not like traditional transponder keys since they do not contain any electronics or chips that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by a new one. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

Have at least one spare car key in your car just in the event of. This way, you'll be able to call the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you'll have access to your car again without needing to pay to have it towed back to the dealership.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old-fashioned car, but your car replacement key probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process, though it's usually best to have your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with your particular car and can ensure that it's done right.

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. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that the fob goes missing or is stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was an inconvenience however, it's now a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves can take them. The advancements in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys come in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with a transponder and a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost car keys replacement cost or hidden in pockets like a coat. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealer would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a fob and a key that is the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.