5 Replacement Car Keys Cost Projects For Any Budget

How Much Do replacement car key Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good idea to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the price to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could simply buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it's more costly to replace keys lost.

The cheapest way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They are usually capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for about $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't come with chips and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost of a replacement car key of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. They're not as common however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and is only possible with special tools that are only accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. It can cost of replacement car key as high as $500 or more, depending on the car's model and cost of replacement car key make.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have because it discourages theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a standard key, but only because it has to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best choice because they have the most experience in programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. They are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car.

No matter what kind of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you in the event of indications that your car has been tampered with or forced to open. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to take or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a particular depth on the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you're not at risk of being locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while working or running around.

If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to call a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to make you a laser-cut replacement key, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will use a machine that appears like 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 be found from the VIN and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your car.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronic components or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since 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 key. You can then call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can reenter your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able perform this reprogramming, however it is generally better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.

The cost of having 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 cost of a mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that the fob goes missing or is stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle However, now it's a real problem. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. The "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank that can fold into the fob in the same way as an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden into a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a fob and a key that's the same year, model and make as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.