See What Replacement Car Keys Cost Tricks The Celebs Are Using

How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry with emergency car key replacement Roadside Service.

It is a good idea to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make this easier we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's much more costly to replace lost keys.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to get an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key does not have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.

There are five kinds of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular, but they are available at your local home improvement store for $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with specialized tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate a microchip in the key. When the key is close to your vehicle, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature because it stops theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular key, however, it's because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your dealer if 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 a more competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next car. You should be able to figure out which type of key works with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are a bit more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your cheap car key replacement.

It is crucial that you don't attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to help, especially if they see indications that your vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. This could make it difficult to obtain a replacement, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to lose or steal than a metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to differentiate between a genuine and fake key 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 if you happen to misplace your key while you're at work or doing errands.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store won't be able create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools required to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears like a regular drill to mill the key's metal, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they don't contain electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced by a new one. Laser-cut keys are expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.

It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. That way, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you have access to your car again without needing to pay to have it towed back to the dealership.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your car without a key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process but it's generally recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are well-versed in your specific car and can ensure that it's done right.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or replacement Car Keys stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was a hassle However, now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves can take keys. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

These new keys come in different sizes and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Just make sure 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 vehicle.