How Much Do Replacement car key replacements Keys Cost?

Losing keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's emergency car key replacement Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

It is a good idea to buy an extra key before you lose yours. To make this easier we've put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. However, today's cars are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto car key replacement near me locksmith. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't have chips and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to work properly. This can only by done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you always have a backup key, and that you keep it in a safe place.

There are five distinct types of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however, you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. It could cost you $500 or more based on the make and model.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They use a microchip in the key. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have as it discourages theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a standard key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally able to program the transponder key, however it is always best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it as well. They are the best option as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys and can give you a better rate.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key it is compatible with and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder password system. They are a little more complex as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password each 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've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe indications that your car key replacement price was opened or damaged. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

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 steal than a traditional key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a groove which cuts to a specific depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from the top. They are easy to identify and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets lost car key replacement while you're working or running errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. In most cases your local hardware store isn't able to make you a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the tools required to cut and program these types of key fobs.

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

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any chips or electronics inside that can be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession in case of case. This way, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you, so that you can have access to your car again, without having to pay to get it towed back at the dealership.

Fobs

You might not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys contain special computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can perform this reprogramming, however it is usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about your particular car and can ensure that it's done right.

The cost of having your car's key fob changed can cost as high as $500, based on the type of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. That doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might want to have in case your fob gets lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience However, now it's an actual issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, however the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or tucked inside pockets like a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you might think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.