How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

It is a good idea to order a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a guide on the cost to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

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

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

Modern car keys have transponders, motor also known as chips, which must be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost of having an electronic key copied is fairly low however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. They're not as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The second type of car key is a transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using specific tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more based on the car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is put into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is beneficial because it stops theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter to start your car and take it away.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a conventional key, but only because it needs to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally competent to program the transponder key, however it is best to inquire with your car replacement key dealer whether they are able to do this as well. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with a more competitive price.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. It is essential to conduct your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However, they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was cloned it would not work in your car.

It is essential to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and emergency car key replacement could cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out, especially if they see indications that your car has been tampered with or forced open. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile car key replacement auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to determine if it's a fake or not. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit won't be able create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith uses a machine that looks very like a regular drill to cut the key's metal, which will cut off the entire surface of the key until 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 vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they don't contain electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession just in case. You can then contact an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's better to have your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

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

The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious problem. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in a variety of shapes and sizes however the most expensive one is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden in a pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and could require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that works in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist that can program your vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges which could save you up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your car.