15 Startling Facts About Replacement Car Keys Cost That You Didn't Know About

How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

If you lose your keys it is an ideal idea to have a spare. To make it easier, we have created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge deal. You could simply buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. However, this type 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 by done by a professional who knows what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.

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

It's crucial to know the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These aren't common anymore however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and is only possible with specialized tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it 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.

A transponder key is just a bit more than a regular key however, it's because it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program the transponder key, however it is always best to ask your car dealership whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best choice as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.

Many automakers 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 to find out which kind of key it is compatible with and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. These are a bit more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.

No matter what kind of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to break into your own car yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will not assist you if they see indications that your car has been opened or damaged. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to steal or lose than a metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth up the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you misplace your keys while working or running for errands.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to make you a laser-cut replacement key, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the metal of the key. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.

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

It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. That way you'll be able call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you gain access to your vehicle again without needing to pay to have it towed back at the dealership.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start the car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own.  car key replacements  can do this reprogramming, but it's recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your specific car, which can ensure it's done right.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, based on the kind of key you use and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car keys was a pain however, it's now an actual issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes 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 up into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. 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 that can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you may think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program many different vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that's the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.