How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.

Before you lose your key it is an ideal idea to have a spare. To make this more convenient we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big problem. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's much more costly to replace keys lost.

An auto locksmith can be the most affordable option. They'll usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. This type of key does not have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to work properly. This can only be done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.

The cost of having an electronic key copied is fairly low 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 type of car keys you have before seeking help. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. They're not as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key however, it's because it has to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program the transponder key, however it is recommended to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this as well. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys, Programmed and may be able to give you an affordable price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out what type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

It is important that you don't attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will not assist you if they notice indications that your car has been forced open or damaged. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to take or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a certain depth along the face of the key. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working.

If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able provide you with an alternative key that is laser-cut, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like a standard drill in order to mill the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they don't contain electronic components or chips that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by the new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the full rebuild of the key.

It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. That way, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to cut it and program it 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

If you don't own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start the car without a key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are familiar with your particular car and can ensure that it's done correctly.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to steal keys. The advancements in the technology of car keys replacement cost keys have made it harder for thieves.

These new keys come in various shapes and sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" has an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds up into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that is in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that can program your automobiles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges which could save you around $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that is the same model, year and make as the original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.