How Much Do replacement keys for car Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.

If you lose your keys It is a good idea to have a spare. To make it easier, we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge deal. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's much more expensive to replace lost keys.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key isn't equipped with a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, which must be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional.

The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip in a modern car key replacement 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 is important to determine the type of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, older car key replacement price key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. They're not as common however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is placed in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature to have as it discourages theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will require both the correct key and transmitter to turn on your car and take it away.

A transponder key is just a bit more than a regular key, but that's only because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always ask your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the bestogram these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith will use a machine that looks very like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they don't contain electronic chips or electronics that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession just in case of. This way, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to get it tow-back by the dealership.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process but it's generally better to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.

Getting your car key fob changed can cost as much as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.

Losing your car key was once a hassle. It's now a major issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, however the one with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that works 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 a third-party locksmith and key company that offers programming for many automobiles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges which could save you around $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as the original so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.