How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.

If you lose your keys, it is a good idea to make a backup. To make it easier we have created a list of how much replacement car key car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

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

The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a basic metal key replacement for car and do so at a cost of $50 or less. This type of key isn't equipped with chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders or chips which must be programmed properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively low however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere secure.

There are five distinct types of car keys lost replacement keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using special tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to connect with their car. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car key fob replacement to begin. This feature is great because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to start your car and drive away with it.

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

A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. It is essential to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder password system. These are a bit more complex as they require a special key tool to program them. However they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're 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 what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to break into your own car yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to assist you, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been damaged or forced open. It is very difficult to get a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a set depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from above. They are easy to identify and will not get locked out if your key is lost while you're doing errands or working.

If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call an locksmith who has equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store will not be able to make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles a standard drill in order to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with the new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. You can then call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your car without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, chances that your cheap car keys replacement (wiki.vst.hs-furtwangen.de) is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start the car without 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 are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

Getting your car 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 does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was a pain However, now it's a real problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than the price a dealership would charge, which could save you $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your car.