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 get back on the roads.

Before you lose your key it is an ideal idea to have a spare. We have put together a guide on the cost to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. However, this kind of key doesn't have a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key in your car and store it safely.

There are five distinct kinds of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have before seeking help to replace it. An older, standard car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. They're not as common however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The next type is the transponder car key button replacement key for car cost (view it now) key. This key has embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and begin the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with specific tools that are accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to start. This feature is great because it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn on your car and then drive off with it.

The cost of a new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a standard key, but that is because it needs to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to provide you with the most competitive price.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key it is compatible with and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize 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.

No matter what kind of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice signs that your car was opened or altered. This could make it hard to get a replacement remote car keys, so be sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith near me car key replacement.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to lose or steal than a key made of metal. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a set 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 spot and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're working or running errands.

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

A locksmith will use a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code can be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys are different from a regular transponder key because they do not have electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced by a new one. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key.

Have at least one spare car key in your possession in case of the event of. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can reenter your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys contain special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are knowledgeable about your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. It's now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves can take keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal them.

The new keys come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but the most expensive is one that comes with a transponder and a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. These are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you may think about purchasing a replacement key fobs for cars aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for various vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges and save yourself as much as $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.