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 roads.

It is a good idea to order an extra key before you lose yours. We have put together a guide on the cost to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace the key that was lost.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest option. They will usually be capable of copying a basic metal key for around $50 or less. However, this type of key isn't equipped with a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer service professional.

The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively cheap car key replacement however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.

There are five kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle'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 can only be duplicated using special tools, which are only available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. It could cost you $500 or more, depending on the model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key that communicates with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have since it discourages theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder keys is typically higher than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed as well. Locksmiths are generally able to program 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 option as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys and can give you a better rate.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able find out what type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. They are a little more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they use rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

Regardless of what 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 a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice signs that your car has been forced open or tampered with. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain a replacement, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to take or lose than a metal key. These keys do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a particular depth in the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from the top. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost car key replacement while you're working or running errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store isn't able to make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these kinds of keys.

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

Laser-cut keys are not like traditional transponder keys since they do not contain any electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys are expensive due to the full rebuild of the key.

It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you happen to lose your car key. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can reenter your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old classic car but your vehicle probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually best to have your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost Of replacement car key as high as $500, depending on the type of key you use and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case your fob gets lost or stolen.

Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now it's a serious issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in 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 a spare fob that is in your car and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for less than the price a dealership will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and cost of replacement Car key fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.