How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good plan to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. To make it easier we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big problem. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it is much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this type of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, which must be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer service professional.

The cost of a replacement car key to get an electronic key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere safe.

It's crucial to know the kind of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These aren't common anymore however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and is only possible with special tools that are only accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed close to your car or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This feature is great because it stops theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

A transponder key is just a bit more than a regular one, however, it's because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice because they have the most experience in programming these keys, and they can offer you a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out what type of key works with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. However, they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that even if your key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle.

It is essential that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to help, especially if they see signs that the car has been tampered with or forced open. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a winding 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's easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you happen to misplace your key while you're at work or doing around.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time the hardware store you visit isn't able to make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the tools required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith will use a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to mill the key's metal, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they do not have electronic chips or electronics that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.

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

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys contain special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is generally recommended to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.

The cost of replacing your car key fobs replacement's key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car keys was a hassle however, it's now a real problem. That's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, keys training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you may want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealer will charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.