How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

Before you lose your key, it is recommended to make a backup. To make it easier we've created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key battery replacement key was not a big issue. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.

The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this type of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who knows what they're doing, such as the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.

There are five kinds of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

cars keys replacement equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed close to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.

A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key however, this is because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer about whether they are able to do it. This is because they often have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to give you an affordable price.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which type of key will work with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your car key cover replacement.

Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you, especially if they see evidence that the car has been tampered with or opened. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to take or lose than a metal key. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a particular depth along 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 easy to identify also means that you can avoid being locked out in the event that you happen to misplace your keys while at work or doing around.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to create these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to create the replacement key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

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

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any electronic components or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. Then, you can call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be tow back 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 which allow you to open and start your car without a key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed in order to work with the car you own. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.

Getting your car key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event your fob gets lost car key replacement or stolen.

The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. It's now a major problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes however the most expensive is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key in the same fob. The "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work with another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program many different vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than the price a dealership will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a key and fob that has the same year, model and model as your original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.