How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

Before you lose your key it is recommended to make a backup. To make it easier we've put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could just buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace the key that was lost.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest option. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key does not have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, like an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.

The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip that is used in a modern car will usually cost 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 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 start your vehicle. They're not as common however, you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with specialized 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 microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is close to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a great feature to have because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter to turn your car on and take it away.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best choice since they have the most experience in programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to find out what type of key will work with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. However, they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were copied, it will not work in your car.

It is essential that you do not try to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe indications that your car has been forced open or damaged. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's much harder to lose or get stolen than a conventional metal key. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a certain depth in the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to tell if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk getting locked out if you lose your keys while working or running errands.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to create these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to provide you with an alternative key that is laser-cut, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your car.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not have any chips or Replacement Car Keys Cost electronics 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 because they require a complete rebuild of the key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. That way you'll be able call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you can have access to your car without needing to pay to have it tow back to the dealership.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally best to have your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are knowledgeable about your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.

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

It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience However, 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 are able to steal them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare key fob that works in your car and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than the price a dealership would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that's the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.