How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.

Before you lose your key it is an ideal idea to make a backup. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge deal. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace lost keys.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with 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 have to be programmed in order to work properly. This is only done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you always have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere safe.

It is important to determine the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A more traditional, older car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on your car. They're not as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for Replacement Car Keys Cost around $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder key with an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and is only possible with special tools that are only accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on your car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is near to your vehicle, or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn on your car and then drive off with it.

Transponder keys cost a little bit more than a regular key however, it's because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. This is because they usually have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to provide you with a more competitive price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is essential to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key it is compatible with and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. They are a little more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were copied, it will not work in your car.

Whatever type of key you've got, it is crucial to never attempt to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to help, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been altered or forced to open. This could make it hard to get replacement key for car parts, so be sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a particular depth on the face of the key. When you look at the key from above it's easy to determine whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to identify and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost while working or running errands.

If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store won't be able make an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key until 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 differ from traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronic chips or electronics that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

You might not have an old-fashioned car however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. The keys contain electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it is generally recommended to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done right.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.

Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. It's now a major issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one that comes with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work in a different vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.