How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

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

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace a lost key.

The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to function properly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, like the local locksmith or a car dealership service professional.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and store it safely.

There are five distinct types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key has a traditional 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 about $10.

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

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and transmitter to turn on your car and drive away with it.

A transponder key is just a bit more than a regular key however, it's because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer about whether they can 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 systems in place. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out what type of key works with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder system. They are a little more complicated as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key is copied, it will not work with your car.

Whatever type of key you've got, it is crucial that you never try to break into your own vehicle yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they observe signs that your vehicle has been forced open or altered. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, so be certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto car key replacement near me locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you can avoid being locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while at work or running for errands.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a professional locksmith with the equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to make you the replacement key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they don't contain electronics or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced by the new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a full rebuild of the key.

Keep a spare car key in your car just in case. You can then contact 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

If you don't own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with the car you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, based on the type of key you drive and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car keys was a hassle, but now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

The new keys come in different shapes and sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that has the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" has an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds up into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you might want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or Replacement car key a locksmith and key specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to the price a dealership will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that's the same year, model and model as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.