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 return to the roads.

Before you lose your key it is a good idea to have a spare. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Nowadays, Replacement Car Keys Cost however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's much more costly to replace keys lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with a chip and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or a car dealership service professional.

The cost of having an electronic key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.

There are five different types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These aren't common anymore however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type of car key is a transponder key with an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. It can cost of replacement car keys as high as $500 or more based on your car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize an embedded microchip in 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 which signals your car to start. This feature is great because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

The cost of a new transponder keys is typically a little more expensive than a traditional key, but only because it has to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally able to program a transponder key, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so as well. This is because they often have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to offer you a more competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out what type of key is compatible with it, and whether or Replacement Car Keys Cost not it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder system. They are a little more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was cloned it would not work in your car.

It is crucial that you don't attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to help in the event of evidence that the vehicle has been altered or forced to open. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key. 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 the top it's easy to identify if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're not at risk of being locked out if you lose your keys while at work or doing errands.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to provide you with an alternative key that is laser-cut, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

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

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

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key available in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can reenter your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it's best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.

Getting your car key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.

Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now it's a serious issue. That's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost car keys replacement or put into a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have a spare key fob that works in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.