How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

It is a good plan to purchase a spare key before you lose yours. We have compiled a guide on the cost to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

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

The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They can usually copy keys made of metal for Replacement Car Keys Cost less than $50. This type of key does not have chip and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys include transponders or chips which must be programmed to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as a local locksmith or even an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost of car key replacement more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you have a backup key, and that you keep it in a safe place.

There are five distinct types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A more traditional, older car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. Keys like these aren't as popular however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The second type of car key is a transponder key that has an embedded security chip that sends an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and 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 model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is near to your vehicle or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have since it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and take it away.

A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key however, it's because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to provide you with a more competitive price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is important to research the key options before you purchase your next car. You should be able to find out which type of key works with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are a bit more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were copied, replacement Car keys cost it will not work in your car.

Whatever type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see indications that your car has been opened or tampered with. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to take or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a certain depth in the middle of the face of the key. This makes it very easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you misplace your keys while working or doing errands.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ a machine that appears like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN and the key will then be cut according to the specifications of your car.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case. You can then call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow to the dealer.

Fobs

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

The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge problem. That's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.

These new keys come in different shapes and sizes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with the transponder and mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" features a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. These are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who offers programming for various vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge and save yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that has the same year, model and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.