How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good plan to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. We have put together a guide on how much it costs to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it's much more costly to replace keys lost.

The cheapest way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key for around $50 or less. This type of key does not have chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that must be programmed in order to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as a local locksmith or even a car dealership service professional.

The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you always have a backup key and that you keep it in a safe place.

There are five different types of car key replacements keys available, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however you can find them at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and begin the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and is only possible with specific tools that are available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They are equipped with microchips in the keys. When the key is close to your car or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key, but that's only because it must be programmed. Locksmiths are generally capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to ask your dealership if they can do so also. They are the best choice as they have the best experience in programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is essential to conduct your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key it is compatible with and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. They are a little more complex as they require a particular 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 keys were cloned it would not work in your car.

Regardless of what type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will not assist you if they notice indications that your car has been forced open or damaged. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to steal or lose than a traditional key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth up the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to determine if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you misplace your key while you're working or doing around.

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. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to mill the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they don't contain electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. That way you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you'll gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to get it tow back at the dealership.

Fobs

You may not have an old-fashioned car however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it is usually best to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done correctly.

Getting your car key replacement cost key fob replaced can cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost replacement car key of a mechanical backup key you might need in the event that the fob goes missing or is stolen.

It used to be that losing your car keys was an inconvenience however, it's now an actual issue. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys come 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 into the fob like a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked into a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that can program your vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealer would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that has the same year, model and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.