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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

It is a good idea to order an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge deal. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more advanced in technology and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They'll usually be capable of copying a basic metal key at a cost of $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys include transponders, or chips, which must be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional that knows what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip in modern cars can cost you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.

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

The next type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the car's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with specialized tools that are only accessible to a locksmith car dealer. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize microchips inside the key to communicate with your car. When the key is near to your car or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could take off with it.

Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular key however, this is because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your car dealer if they can do it. They are the best choice since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and will offer you a better price.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out what type of key works with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

It is essential that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you in the event of signs that the vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid being locked out in the event that you lose your key while you're working or doing errands.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment to make these types of replacements. In the majority of cases, your local hardware store will not be able to make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these types of keys.

A locksmith will use an instrument that appears like a regular drill to mill the key's metal, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.

Contrary to transponder replacement keys for car that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start your car without having a key. These keys have special computer chips that need to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it's recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it's a smart key or a remote car key replacement-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost for replacement car key of a new mechanical backup key you might want to have in case your fob gets lost or stolen.

Losing your car key was once a hassle. Now it's a serious problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves can take them. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked into a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work with another vehicle, you may want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement keys car from a business like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than the price a dealership will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that has the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.