A Look At The Myths And Facts Behind Replacement Car Keys Cost

How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

It is a good idea to purchase a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a guide on the cost to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace a lost key.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest alternative. They'll usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. However, this type of key isn't equipped with chips and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional.

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

It's important to identify the kind of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using specific tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based 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 placed close to your vehicle or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to start. This feature is great as it wards off theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn on your car and then drive off with it.

Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular one, however, this is because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice as they have the best experience in programming these keys and can provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. 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 kind of key works with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been copied, it will not work with your vehicle.

It is crucial that you don't attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they observe signs that your car has been forced open or damaged. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so 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 key made of metal. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a set depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between genuine and Replacement Car Keys Cost fake keys when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're not at risk of being locked out if you misplace your keys while working or doing around.

If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to create a laser-cut replacement key, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith uses a machine that looks very like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they don't contain electronic car key replacement chips or electronics which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.

It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession 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 vehicle without having pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

You may not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it's best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

Getting your car key fob replaced can cost up to $500, based on the kind of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key that you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience However, now it's an actual issue. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the one with transponder and 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 a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that is in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealer would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that has the same model, year and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.