How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.

It is a good idea to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a guide on the cost to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key for around $50 or less. However, this kind of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, Replacement Car Keys Cost that need to be programmed to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, like the local locksmith or a car dealership service professional.

The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.

There are five kinds of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and is only possible with special tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith car dealer. This can cost up to $500 or more depending on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is close to your car, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is great because it stops theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and take it away.

The cost of a new transponder key is typically higher than a traditional key, but that is because it must be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your car 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 offer you the most competitive price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next car. You will be able to figure out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder. They are a little more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as 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.

It is essential to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and could cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help particularly if they notice evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to steal or lose than a key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you happen to misplace your keys while working or running errands.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call a professional locksmith with the equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith uses an instrument that appears like a regular drill to cut the key's metal, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any chips or electronics inside of them that can 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, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession in case of case of. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

You might not have an old classic car however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car keys was an inconvenience, but now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves can steal them. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

These new keys come in different sizes and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart" key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you may think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement remote car keys from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program a variety of 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, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that's the same model, year and make as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.