Write About Everything

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 return to the roads.

Before you lose your key It is an ideal idea to make a backup. We have put together a guide on how much it costs to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest alternative. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn’t have an electronic chip, and therefore won’t be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys include transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they’re doing, for instance a local locksmith or even a car dealership service professional.

The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip that is used in modern cars can cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere secure.

There are five distinct kinds of car keys, so it’s crucial to know which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren’t as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the car’s computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied using specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They incorporate a microchip in the key. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This feature is great because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.

The cost of a new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a traditional key, but only because it has to be programmed as well. Locksmiths are generally able to program a transponder key, but it is always best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this also. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you the most competitive price.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your car.

Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to gain entry into your vehicle yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you, especially if they see evidence that the car has been tampered with or forced to open. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you’ll notice that it’s more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. The keys don’t have notches cut along the edge 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 very easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. The fact that they’re easy to recognize also means that you’re not at risk of being locked out in the event that you misplace your key while you’re at work or doing around.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you’ll need to talk to a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able create an alternative key that is laser-cut, because they don’t have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique key’s code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle’s specifications.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not have any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It’s recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. You can then contact an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your car without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

You might not own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming but it’s recommended to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.

Getting your car key fob changed can cost up to $500, based on the kind of key you use and if it’s smart or just remote-controlled. That doesn’t include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key maker keys was a hassle however, it’s now an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD’s training director, says that modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can take keys. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This “smart” key comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put into a coat pocket. They’re generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare fob that can be used in your car replacement keys and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that can program your vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to what a dealer will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that’s the same year, model and make as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.