15 Interesting Facts About Replacement Car Keys Cost That You Never Knew

How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

It is a good plan to buy a spare key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient we have created a guide on how much replacement car key replacement online keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big deal. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest car key replacement keys car (try these guys out) alternative. They'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, which must be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you always have a backup key, and keep it somewhere secure.

It is important to determine the type of car keys you have before seeking help. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. They're not as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with special tools that are available to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize an embedded microchip in the key to communicate with your cheap car key replacement. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic car key replacement code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature to have since it discourages theft. It also makes it more 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.

A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular key however, it's because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and will give you a better rate.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to figure out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. They are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't 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 gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will not assist you if they observe indications that your car was opened or altered. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle equipped with a laser cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you lose your keys while at work or doing for errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store isn't able to create a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith will use a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN and the key will then be cut to meet the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are different from a regular transponder key because they don't contain electronics or chips which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in the event of. 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 towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old classic car, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you however it's recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about your particular car, which can ensure it's done right.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced can cost up to $500, based on the kind of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include cost of a 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 key was an inconvenience, but now it's an actual issue. That's because modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your car and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that can program your automobiles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges and save yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that has the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.