How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. 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. We have compiled a guide on the cost to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn’t too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge problem. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it’s more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

An auto locksmith can be the most affordable option. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn’t have an electronic chip, and therefore will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to function correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they’re doing, like a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip in modern cars can cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you always have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere safe.

It is important to determine the kind of car key you own before seeking assistance. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned 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 of car key is the transponder key that has an embedded security chip that sends an electronic signal to the car key replacement near me‘s computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be duplicated using special tools that are accessible to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to connect with their car key replacement service. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is inserted in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car keys replacement near me to start. This is an excellent feature to have since it helps to prevent theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief requires both the right key and the transmitter to turn on your car and take it away.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically higher than a conventional key, but only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer about whether they are able to do it. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to provide you with the most competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key works with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. These are a bit more complex as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they use rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.

No matter what kind of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to assist you in the event of signs that the vehicle has been damaged or forced open. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you’ll notice that it’s a lot harder to lose or get stolen than a conventional metal key. These keys do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a certain depth along the face of the key. This makes it easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from above. The fact that they’re so easy to spot also means that you’re less likely to risk being locked out if you happen to misplace your key while you’re at work or running for errands.

If your key is laser-cut then you’ll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. In most cases your local hardware store will not be able to create a new key cut with lasers because they don’t have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.

A locksmith will employ a machine that appears like a standard drill to mill the key’s metal, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key’s unique code can be extracted from the VIN, and the key will then be cut according to your vehicle’s specifications.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not have any chips or electronics inside that can be replaced, which means they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.

It’s always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car key. 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 tow to the dealer.

Fobs

There’s a chance that you don’t have an old classic car, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys contain special electronic chips that need to be programmed to work with the car you own. There are locksmiths who can perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it’s recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are well-versed in your specific car, which can ensure it’s done right.

The cost of getting your car’s key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and whether it’s a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn’t include cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle however, it’s now a real problem. That’s because modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This “smart key” features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds down into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They’re generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealer would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that’s the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.