How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.

If you lose your keys it is recommended to have a spare. To make it easier, we have created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it is much more costly to replace keys lost.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest alternative. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key isn't equipped with chips and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

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

The cost to have an electronic key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you have a backup key, and keep it somewhere safe.

There are five types of car key replacement price keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. An older, standard car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on your car. Keys like these aren't as popular however, you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The next type of car key is a transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that sends an electronic car key replacement signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, cost of replacement car keys and can only be duplicated using special tools that are available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key that communicates with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have since it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

The cost of a new transponder key is usually slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best option because they have the most expertise in programming these keys, and they can offer you a better price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Some newer cars come equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, cost of replacement car keys because they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle.

Whatever type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see indications that your car has been opened or damaged. This can make it very difficult to obtain a replacement, so be sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to lose or steal than a metal key. These keys have no notches 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 tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you can avoid being locked out in the event that you lose your keys while working or doing for errands.

If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment to make these types of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store won't be able make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

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

Unlike 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. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire 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 contact a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

You may not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it is generally better to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about your specific car, which can ensure it's done right.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was an inconvenience, but now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves can take keys. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

These new keys come in different sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key within the same fob. The "smart" key features an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked in a coat pocket. 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 is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work with another vehicle, you may want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program many different vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealer will charge, thereby which could save you $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.