How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

It is a good plan to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge deal. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it is much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key at a cost of $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't come with chips and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, like a local locksmith or even a car dealership service professional.

The cost of having an electronic key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you always have a backup key, and that you keep it in a safe place.

It's crucial to know the type of car key you have before seeking help. An older, standard car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and Replacement Car Keys Cost then turned to turn on your car. Keys like these aren't as popular however they are available at your local home improvement store for $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with specific tools, which are only available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed close to your car or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This feature is great as it wards off theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and then drive off with it.

A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key however, this is because it needs to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally competent to program the transponder key, however it is best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it also. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you the most competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with transponder password systems. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your car.

Whatever type of key you have, it is crucial that you do not attempt to gain entry into your car yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to assist you, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been damaged or opened. It is very difficult to get a new key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car with a laser-cut key, replacement car keys cost you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a conventional metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from above. They are easy to recognize and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while working or running errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able create the replacement key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that resembles an ordinary drill to mill the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code can be retrieved from the VIN and the key will be cut to match your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronics or chips which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you happen to lose your car keys. Then, you can call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it is usually recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.

Getting your car key fob replaced could cost up to $500, based on the type of key you use and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.

The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves are able to take keys. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. 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 pockets like a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be copied to work with another vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement car key aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program various vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that's the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.