How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.

It is a good plan to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, today's cars are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They'll usually be capable of copying a basic metal key for about $50 or less. This type of key isn't equipped with a chip, and local therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

This is because modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, such as a local locksmith or even an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of having a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere safe.

There are five different types of car keys available, 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 traditional double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with specialized tools that are accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is placed in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to begin. This is a great feature to have as it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and then drive off with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a standard key, but that is because it has to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to give you an affordable price.

Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are a bit more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. However, they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car key cover replacement.

Whatever type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and make mechanics reluctant to help you out, especially if they see evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or opened. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or steal than a conventional metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to identify whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you misplace your keys while at work or running around.

If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases, your local hardware store will not be able to make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the tools required to cut and program these types of keys.

A locksmith uses a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be found from the VIN and the key will then be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronics or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced with the new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a full rebuild of the 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. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can be back in your vehicle 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 the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.

The cost of having your car's key fob changed can cost up to $500, based on the type of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This does not include the 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 an inconvenience however, it's now an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves are able to steal keys. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

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

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to what a dealer will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.