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.

If you lose your keys, it is a good idea to have a spare made. We have put together a guide on the cost to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could simply buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's much more costly to replace lost keys.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This type of key isn't equipped with chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.

The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip that is used in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you always have a backup key, and that you keep it in a safe place.

It's crucial to know the type of car keys you have before seeking help. A more traditional, older car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. They're not as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specific tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith car dealer. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to communicate with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to start. This is a great feature because it stops theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could take off with it.

A transponder key is just a bit more than a regular one, however, it's because it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be able to program a transponder key, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this also. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to give you a more competitive price.

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

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder system. They are a little more complicated because they require a special key tool to program them. However, they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were copied, it will not work in your car.

It is crucial that you do not try to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics won't help you if they notice indications that your car has been forced open or altered. This can make it very hard to get replacement parts, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa Mobile car key Replacement auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you'll notice that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a traditional key made of metal. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a specific depth in the middle of the face of the key. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to determine whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you misplace your key while you're at work or doing errands.

If you have a laser-cut key, then you will need to contact an expert locksmith who has the necessary equipment to create these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able create a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith uses a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and mobile car key replacement the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any chips or electronics inside that can be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car keys replacement key. So, you'll be able to call the locksmith to cut and program the key for you, so that you have access to your car again, without having to pay to get it tow back to the dealership.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start the car without having a key. These keys contain special electronic chips that need to be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. There are locksmiths who can perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's best to have your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are well-versed in your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

The cost of having your car's key fob changed can cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you drive and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can take keys. The advances in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart" key features an elongated shank that is spring loaded and can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your vehicle and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for less than what a dealer will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your original so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.