How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with emergency car key replacement Roadside Service.

It is a good idea to order an extra key before you lose yours. To make it easier, we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big problem. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.

The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key at a cost of $50 or less. However, this kind of key doesn't come with chips and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, such as a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chip in modern cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your car and store it safely.

It's important to identify the kind of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on your car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect with their car. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is put into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter to turn your car on and Replacement Car Keys Cost take it away.

A transponder key is a little bit more than a regular one, but that's only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice as they have the best experience in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires a remote to unlock it.

Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder system. They are a little more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.

No matter what kind of key you have regardless of what type, Replacement Car Keys Cost it is vital that you do not attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and could make mechanics reluctant to assist you, especially if they see indications that your vehicle has been altered or forced open. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to steal or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a particular depth in the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to identify if it's a fake or not. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while working or running errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store 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 employ 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 key's unique code will be found from the VIN and the key will then be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, which means they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a full rebuild of the key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. This way you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut it and program it for you, so that you have access to your car again, without needing to pay to have it towed back by the dealership.

Fobs

You might not have an old classic car but your vehicle probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process, though it's usually better to have your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in your particular car and can ensure that it's done right.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced can cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you drive and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was an inconvenience, but now it's a major issue. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, however the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the 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 hidden in the pocket of a coat. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealership would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.