How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good idea to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make this more convenient, we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could buy a spare key, service and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's much more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and keep it safe.

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

The second type of car key fob replacement 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 type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to begin. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter to start your car and take it away.

Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular key but that's only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they often have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you a more competitive price.

Many automakers have their own distinct anti-theft systems 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 if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, service it won't work with your vehicle.

Regardless of what type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to open the door of your car yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they observe signs that your vehicle has been opened or damaged. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a particular depth along the face of the key. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to tell whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you lose your keys while working or doing errands.

If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to provide you with an alternative key that is laser-cut, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will use a machine that looks very like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are different from a traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronic components or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced by the new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in case. This way, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you, so that you gain access to your vehicle again, without needing to pay to have it towed back to the dealership.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start your car without having a key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is usually best to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done correctly.

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

The loss of your car key was once a hassle. Now, it's a huge problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" features a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work with another vehicle, you might think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges which could save you up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as your original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.