How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

Before you lose your key it is recommended to have a spare. To make it easier we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key fobs replacement key was no big problem. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more expensive to replace a lost key.

An auto locksmith can be the most affordable option. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key at a cost of $50 or less. This kind of key doesn't have a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.

The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip that is used in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.

There are five different types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends an electronic signal to the car's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and it can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is inserted in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car because a burglar will 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 but that's only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key replacement car transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice as they have the best experience in programming these keys, and they can offer you a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

It is crucial to not attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out particularly if they notice evidence that the vehicle has been altered or forced to open. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement keys for car key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car that has a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional metal key. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a particular depth on the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you misplace your keys while working or running around.

If you own 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 the majority of cases, your local hardware store will not be able to make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery needed to cut and Car Key Fobs Replacement program these types of key fobs.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to cut the key's metal. This will cut all the surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside that can be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your possession just in case of. That way, you'll be able to call 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 tow-back to the dealership.

Fobs

You might not have an old classic car but your vehicle probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it is usually best to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. That's not even including the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.

Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and car key Fobs Replacement effective that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, however the one with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" has an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you may think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges and save yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that has the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.