How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

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 how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big issue. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key for about $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't come with chips and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys have transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. Keys like these aren't as popular however, they are available at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The next type of car key is a transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that sends an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and is only possible with specialized tools that are accessible to a locksmith car dealer. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is put into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to begin. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter to start your car and take it away.

Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular key however, it's because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best option as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys and will offer you a better price.

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

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder system. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car key replacement online.

It is essential to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you in the event of signs that the vehicle has been damaged or forced open. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile replacement car keys auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car replacement keys near me that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's much harder to lose or get stolen than a conventional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you lose your key while you're at work or doing around.

If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment to make these types of replacements. In most cases the hardware store you visit isn't able to make an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith will use an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will cut all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be found from the VIN and the key will be cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they do not have electronics or chips that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by a new one. Laser-cut keys are expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession just in case of. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

You may not have an old classic car however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming but it is usually recommended to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.

The cost of getting your car's key fob changed can cost up to $500, depending on the kind of key you use and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal them. The advances in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys come in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has a transponder and a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds down into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that can program your vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that has the same year, model and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.