How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

If you lose your keys It is an ideal idea to make a backup. To make this easier, we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it's much more expensive to replace keys lost.

The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and won't 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 in order to function properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it in a safe place.

There are five different kinds of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car key button replacement industry has access to. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or Replacement Car Keys Cost close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your cheap car keys replacement to begin. This is an excellent feature to have because it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is usually slightly more expensive than a traditional key, but only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to offer you an affordable price.

Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder. They are a little more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is copied, it will not work with your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help, especially if they see evidence that the car has been tampered with or forced to open. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain a replacement, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional metal key. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a certain depth on the face of the key. When you look at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you misplace your key while you're at work or doing errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store won't be able create an original laser-cut key since they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these types of keys.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut to meet the specifications of your vehicle.

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

Keep at least one spare car key in your possession in case of the event 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

Unless you own an old classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.

Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious issue. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds down into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that is in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that offers programming for many vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for Replacement Car Keys Cost a much lower cost than what a dealership would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that has the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.