How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

It is a good idea to order an extra key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient we've put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could buy 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 keys that have been lost.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest option. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key for about $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't have chips and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys replacement cost keys have transponders, or chips, that must be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, such as the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, Replacement Car Keys Cost however the programming chip used in modern cars can cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.

There are five types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common however, you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with specialized tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have since it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could take off with it.

A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key, however, it's because it must be programmed. Locksmiths are generally capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it also. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to offer you a more competitive price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next car. You will be able to figure out which kind 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. These are a bit more complex as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your car.

Whatever type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential that you never try to open the door of your car yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice indications that your car has been forced open or damaged. This could make it hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to identify whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you lose your key while you're working or running for errands.

If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call an locksmith who has equipment to make these types of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit isn't able to make an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears similar to 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 obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they don't contain electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. So you'll be able call the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you can have access to your car again, without needing to pay to have it tow back at the dealership.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old classic car however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it is usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

Losing 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 effective that thieves are now able to steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

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

If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist that can program your vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges which could save you as much as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that's the same model, year and model as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.