How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

When you lose your key it is recommended to have a spare made. To make it easier, we have put together a guide to 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. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's much more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest alternative. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, that need to be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost of having a mechanical key copied is fairly low, but the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and store it safely.

There are five different kinds of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

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

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They use a microchip in the key. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and drive away with it.

A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular key, however, it's because it needs to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program a transponder key, but it is recommended to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it as well. They are the best option as they have the best expertise in programming these keys, and they can offer you a better price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key car replacement works with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. These are more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they use rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see signs that your vehicle has been forced open or altered. This could make it hard to get replacement car key costs parts, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto car key replacement near me locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a traditional key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from above. They are easy to identify and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while working or running errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment for making 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 needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.

Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to cut the key's metal. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession just in case of. That way, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you gain access to your vehicle again, without needing to pay to have it tow back to the dealership.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start the car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally better to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key replacement for car. That's not even including the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

Losing your car key was once a hassle. It's now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal them. The advances in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys come in various sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds down into the fob like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you may think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges which could save you up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that is the same model, year and model as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.