How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.

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

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key doesn't have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

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

There are five distinct types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These aren't common anymore however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using special tools that are accessible to a locksmith or 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

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter to start your car and drive away with it.

A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular one, however, it's because it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming a transponder key, but it is always best to ask your car dealership whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best choice since they have the most expertise in programming these keys and will give you a better rate.

Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key it is compatible with and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.

Whatever type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to open the door of your car yourself. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you in the event of signs that the car has been tampered with or opened. This could make it hard to get an exchange, so make sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to take or lose than a metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a groove which cuts to a specific depth up the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you misplace your key while you're working or running errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to make you the replacement remote car keys key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears like 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 retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, so they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the full rebuild of the key.

It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key available in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. This way you'll be able call the locksmith and have it cut and programmed for you so that you gain access to your vehicle again without having to pay to have it tow back to the dealership.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process, though it's usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.

The cost of getting your car's key replacement car fob replaced can cost as high as $500, based on the type of key you drive and if it's remote-controlled or smart. That's not even including the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience, but now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves are able to steal them. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart" key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and can fold into the fob in the same way as the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put into a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement car key; check out this one from bookmarking.win, from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for many different vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges which could save you around $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and replacement car key model as your original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.