How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never a good feeling to lose your car key replacement service near me keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.

It is a good plan to buy an extra key before you lose yours. To make this easier we've created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big problem. You could purchase an extra key and Cost of Replacement Car Keys then use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key at a cost of $50 or less. However, Cost Of Replacement Car Keys this type of key doesn't have a chip and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys include transponders, also known as chips, that need to be programmed properly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe.

There are five different types of car keys, so it's crucial to know the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however, you can find them at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. This can cost up to $500 or more depending on your car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is near to your vehicle, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a great feature because it stops theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter to turn on your car and then drive off with it.

The cost of a new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a traditional key, but only because it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is always best to ask your car dealership if they can do so as well. This is because they usually have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you a more competitive price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key works with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder-based password system. These are more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle.

Whatever type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you in the event of evidence that the car has been tampered with or forced to open. This could make it difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to lose or steal than a key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge 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 a genuine and fake key when you look at it from above. They are easy to spot and will not get locked out if your key is lost while doing errands or working.

If you own a laser-cut key, then you will need to contact a professional locksmith with the equipment to create these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store won't be able create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith uses a machine that looks very like a standard drill to cut the key's metal, which will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession in case of case of. That way, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you gain access to your vehicle without needing to pay to have it tow-back by the dealership.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start your car without having a key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming but it is usually better to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

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

Losing your car key was once a hassle. 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 are able to steal them. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart" key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds in the fob to form the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden into a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealership to replace.