How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never pleasant to lose your car replacement key keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

Before you lose your key it is recommended to have a spare made. To make it easier, we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, today's cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to get an auto locksmith. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key at a cost of $50 or less. However, this kind of key doesn't have chips and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to function properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they're doing, like a local locksmith or even an expert from a dealership's service department.

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

There are five types of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before getting help with replacing it. An older, standard car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. They're not as common however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next type of car key is the transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be duplicated using special tools that are accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. This can cost up to $500 or more depending on your car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to begin. This is a great feature to have since it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.

A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular key however, it's because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best choice since they have the most experience in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key is compatible with it, and whether or not it requires a remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure 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.

It is essential to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you, especially if they see indications that your car has been tampered with or opened. This could make it hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to lose or steal than a key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a 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 recognize, so you won't get locked out if your key is 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. In most cases the hardware store you visit isn't able to make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the tools required to cut and program these types of key fobs.

A locksmith will employ a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys are different from a normal transponder keys because they do not have electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

Have at least one spare car replacement keys near me key in your possession just in case of. You can then call a locksmith to have the key cut and replacement car keys programmed so that you can reenter your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

You might not have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys have special computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process however it's recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done right.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience However, now it's a real problem. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

These new keys come in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden into a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself as much as $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.