10 Replacement Car Keys Cost Tricks Experts Recommend

How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.

Before you lose your key, it is an ideal idea to have a spare made. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge deal. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They can usually copy keys made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key does not have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.

This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to work 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 in service.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip that is used in modern cars can cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key in your car and store it safely.

There are five different types of car keys, so it's crucial to know the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put 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 around $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is inserted 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 because it discourages theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and the transmitter to turn your car on and drive away with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a traditional key, mobile replacement car Keys but only because it must be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program the transponder key, however it is best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it also. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to give you an affordable price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems in place. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which kind of key it is compatible with and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with transponder password systems. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.

Whatever type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to help you out, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been damaged or opened. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile replacement car Keys auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll see that it's a lot harder to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a certain depth in the middle of the face of the key. When looking at the key from above it's easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to identify and you won't be locked out if your key is lost while doing errands or working.

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 the hardware store you visit isn't able to make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith uses a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to cut the key's metal, which will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will then be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to meet the specifications of your car.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not have any electronic components or chips inside of them that can be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in case you happen to lose your car key. This way you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you can have access to your car without having to pay to get it tow-back by the dealership.

Fobs

You may not have an old classic car, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys come with computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it's better to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might want to have in case your fob gets lost or stolen.

Losing your car key replacement key was once a hassle. It's now a major problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern cars have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves are able to steal them. The advancements in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or tucked inside pockets like a coat. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for Mobile Replacement Car Keys less than a dealership charges which could save you up to $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that's the same model, year and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.