How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

When you lose your key, it is an ideal idea to have a spare. To make it easier, we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost for car key replacement.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace a lost key.

Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for about $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys have transponders or chips that must be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost to have a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere secure.

It is important to determine the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, cost for car key replacement old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however, you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specific tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. It could cost you $500 or more, depending on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect with their car. They incorporate a microchip in the key. When the key is close to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a great feature because it stops theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter to start your car and then drive off with it.

A transponder key is just a bit more than a regular key, but that's only because it must 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. This is because they usually have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with a more competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. They are a little more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that if your key was duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

It is important that you do not try to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will not assist you if they see signs that your car has been opened or altered. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to steal or lose than a key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a certain depth on the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from the top. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're working or running errands.

If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to a locksmith professional with the equipment to create these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able provide you with the replacement key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to cut the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means that they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car key. You can then contact a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can get back into your car without having to pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are familiar with your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced can cost up to $500, based on the type of key you use and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. That's not even including the cost of a new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience however, it's now a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves can take them. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. The "smart" key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and can fold into the fob in the same way as an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare fob that can be used in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealer will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure that 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.