How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

When you lose your key, it is a good idea to make a backup. To make this more convenient, we have put together a guide to how much does a replacement car key cost uk much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest option. They'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This type of key doesn't have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys include transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed properly. This can only be done by a professional that knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.

The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and keep it safe.

There are five different types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular, but they are available at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The second type of car key is a transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be done with specific tools, which are only available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

cars keys replacement equipped with transponder keys have microchips inside the key to communicate with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have since it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter to start your car and drive away with it.

A transponder key is just a bit more than a regular key but that's only because it must be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming the transponder key, however it is always best to ask your car dealership if they can do so also. They are the best choice since they have the most experience in programming these keys, and they can offer you a better price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password each 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 never try to gain entry into your vehicle yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you in the event of signs that the vehicle has been altered or forced open. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile car key replacement auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to steal or lose than a traditional key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth up the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you misplace your key while you're at work or running around.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store will not be able to make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these types of keys.

Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code can be extracted from the VIN and the key will then be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside that can be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.

It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. So, you'll be able to call the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you'll have access to your car without having to pay to have it tow back by the dealership.

Fobs

You might not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably uses one of the newest 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 car you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is usually best to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was a hassle, but now it's a real problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys come in different shapes and sizes however the most expensive is one that has the transponder and mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for various vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to the price a dealership will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that has the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.