how much is a replacement car key uk Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.

If you lose your keys it is recommended to have a spare made. To make this more convenient we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big problem. You could just buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They are usually capable of copying a standard metal key for about $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys include transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance a local locksmith or even an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.

There are five distinct kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however, they are available at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The next type of car key is a transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends 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 standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have as it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter to turn your car on and take it away.

Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular key however, it's because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best option as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and can give you a better rate.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out which type of key works with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. They are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your car.

Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they observe indications that your car has been forced open or damaged. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key fobs for cars, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to take or lose than a key made of metal. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a particular depth on the face of the key. When you look at the key from above it's easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of being locked out if you happen to misplace your key while you're at work or doing around.

If you own a laser-cut key, then you'll need to call a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to make these types of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit won't be able make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these types of key fobs.

A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to mill the key's metal. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then extracted from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not have any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, so they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can reenter your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start the vehicle without the need for a key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the car you own. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you however it's better to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.

The cost for car key replacement of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key that you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle, but now it's an actual issue. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one that has both a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which folds into the fob like a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or put in a pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program many different vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealership would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.