How Much Do replacement car keys cost for car key replacement (stay with me)?

Losing your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good plan to order an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace the key that was lost.

The cheapest replacement car keys method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key for about $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't come with an electronic car key replacement chip, and therefore isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys include transponders or chips which must be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they're doing, like a local locksmith or even a car dealership service professional.

The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip that is used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you always have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere secure.

It's important to identify the kind of car key you own before seeking assistance. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common however you should be able 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 computer in the vehicle to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith car key replacement cost or a dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key to communicate with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This feature is great because it stops theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a traditional key, but this is due to the fact that it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with many locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer if they can do it. They are the best option because they have the most knowledge of programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. It is essential to conduct 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.

Some newer cars come equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are a bit more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to gain entry into your car yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they see indications that your car has been forced open or damaged. This will make it extremely hard to get an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a particular depth along the key's face. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize and will not get locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will use an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code can be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut to meet the specifications of your vehicle.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your possession just in case. So, you'll be able to call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you, so that you can have access to your car without needing to pay to have it tow back to the dealership.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you however it's recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost up to $500, depending on the kind of key you use and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. That's not even including the cost for car key replacement of purchasing 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 keys was an inconvenience, but now it's an actual issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves.

These new keys come in various dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key within the same fob. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden into a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you may want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program many different vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for less than what a dealer would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original so it can be coded to work with your car.