How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It’s never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing emergency car key replacement Roadside Service.

Before you lose your key it is a good idea to make a backup. To make this easier, we have created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn’t long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge issue. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it’s more expensive to replace lost keys.

Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This type of key does not have a chip, and therefore will not 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 to work correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they’re doing, like the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional.

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

It’s important to identify the kind of car key you own before seeking assistance. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These keys aren’t as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next type of car key is the transponder key that has an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle’s computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be done with specific tools that are accessible to a locksmith car dealer. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is great because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter in order to turn on your car and then drive off with it.

Transponder keys cost a little bit more than a regular key, but that’s only because it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program a transponder key, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it as well. They are the best choice since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder password system. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure because they employ rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they’re used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won’t work with your vehicle.

It is crucial to not attempt to break into your car keys lost replacement on your own, no matter the type of key. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to assist you, especially if they see indications that your car has been tampered with or forced open. This could make it difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you’ll notice that it’s more difficult to lose or get stolen than a traditional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade – instead there’s a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key’s face. This makes it easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. 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 keys while working or doing errands.

If you have a laser-cut key, then you’ll need to call an expert locksmith with the equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time your local hardware store isn’t able to make a new key cut with lasers because they don’t have the tools required to cut and program these types of keys.

A locksmith uses a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key’s unique code will then be extracted from the VIN and the key will be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they don’t contain electronics or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a full rebuild of the key.

It’s recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. Then, you can call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow to the dealer.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is usually better to let your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it’s done right.

Getting your car key fob changed can cost of a replacement car key as high as $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it’s smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn’t include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. Now, it’s a huge 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 advancements in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

These new keys come in various dimensions and shapes however the most expensive one is one that comes with a transponder and a mechanical key within the same fob. This “smart” key has a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement car key from a company such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, thereby which could save you $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your car.