How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

It is a good plan to buy a spare key before you lose yours. We have put together a guide on how much it costs to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key replacements for cars and do so at a cost of $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

This is because modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This is only done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer service professional.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will usually 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 types of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common however, you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and it can only be copied using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use an embedded microchip in the key to communicate with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have as it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to start your car and take it away.

A transponder key is a little bit more than a regular one, however, this is because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with many locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer if they can 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.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems in place. This is why it's important to research the key options prior replacement car keys cost to buying your next car. You will be able to figure out which kind of key will work with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder-based password system. They are a little more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle.

It is important that you do not try to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will not assist you if they see indications that your car has been opened or damaged. This can make it very hard to get a replacement, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a set depth across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to tell whether it's fake or not. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In most cases your local hardware store won't be able create a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these types of keys.

A locksmith uses a machine that appears like a standard 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 extracted 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 do not contain any electronics or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for replacement car keys cost it to be tow to the dealer.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you but it's generally best to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

The cost of replacing your car key replacement online key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your fob gets lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was an inconvenience However, now it's a major issue. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" has an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up 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 simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealer will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.