How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

When you lose your key It is recommended to make a backup. To make this easier we've put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big deal. You could just buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace the key that was lost.

The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key for around $50 or less. This kind of key does not have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys have transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be 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 to have an electronic key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and store it safely.

There are five different kinds of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical one and is only possible with specialized tools that are available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is close to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have since it discourages theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter to turn your car on and then drive off with it.

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

Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which kind of key it is compatible with and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with transponder password systems. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle.

Whatever type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they observe indications that your car has been forced open or tampered with. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, replacement car keys cost so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to take or lose than a key made of metal. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a specific depth on the face of the key. This makes it easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. They are easy to identify and will not get locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working.

If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call an locksmith who has equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to provide you with the replacement keys for car key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will use an apparatus that resembles an ordinary drill to mill the key's metal. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN and the key will be cut to meet the specifications of your car.

Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronic chips or electronics that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. You can then call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed by the dealer.

Fobs

You might not have an old classic car however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now it's a serious problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that convenient and powerful that thieves can take them. The advances in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves.

The new keys come in different sizes and Replacement Car Keys Cost shapes, but the most expensive one is one that has a transponder and a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds up into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work in a different vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program various vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself around $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.