How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

When you lose your key, it is an ideal idea to have a spare made. We have compiled a guide on the cost to replace keys for cars keys replacement.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big problem. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. However, today's cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace a lost key.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They are usually capable of copying a standard metal key at a cost of $50 or less. This kind of key does not have a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys have transponders or chips which must be programmed to work correctly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip that is used in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.

It is important to determine the type of car replacement keys keys you own before seeking assistance. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. This can cost up to $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 close to your vehicle, or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature to have since it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could take off with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder keys is typically a little more expensive than a standard key, but only because it must be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however you should always ask your dealer if they can do it. They are the best option as they have the best experience in programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it's essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next car. You should be able to figure out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. They are a little more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure because they employ rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your car.

Whatever type of key you have, it is crucial to never attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you, especially if they see indications that your car has been tampered with or forced open. This could make it hard to get a replacement, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to take or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. They are easy to recognize, local so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're doing errands or working.

If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store won't be able create an original laser-cut key since they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith uses a machine that looks very like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to meet the specifications of your car.

Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronics or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

Have at least one spare car key in your car just in the event of. This way you'll be able call the locksmith and have it cut and programmed for you so that you'll gain access to your vehicle again without having to pay to get it tow back to the dealership.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys contain special electronic chips that need to be programmed to work with the car you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is usually best to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced can cost up to $500, depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. That 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.

The loss of your car keys was once a hassle. Now it's a serious problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

These new keys come in different sizes and shapes however the most expensive one is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. The "smart" key features an elongated shank that is spring loaded and can fold into the fob in the same way as the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked in a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for less than what a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.