How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

It is a good plan to buy a spare key before you lose yours. To make this easier we've created a guide on how much replacement car keys (click to investigate) cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge deal. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest option. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function properly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car key lost replacement dealer service professional.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key and store it safely.

It's crucial to know the kind of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however, you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with specific tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer in the car. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to communicate with your car. When the key is close to your vehicle or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have since it discourages 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 before they could drive off with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a standard key, but that is because it needs to be programmed as well. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this as well. This is because they usually have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to offer you a more competitive price.

Many automakers have their own distinct anti-theft systems in place. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next car. You will be able to figure out what type of key is compatible with it and if it requires a remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they use rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

It is important to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they observe signs that your vehicle was opened or damaged. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement key for car key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to steal or lose than a key made of metal. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from the top. They are easy to spot and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while doing errands or working.

If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface to 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.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don't have any electronic car key replacement components or chips inside them that could be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.

It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in case you happen to lose your car keys. This way, you'll be able to call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you, so that you gain access to your vehicle without needing to pay to have it towed back to the dealership.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys come with computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can assist you in this process, though it's usually better to have your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done right.

The cost of having your car's key fob changed can cost up to $500, based on the type of key you use and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case your fob gets lost or stolen.

Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious problem. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" has an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds up into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or tucked inside the pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself as much as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that is the same model, year and model as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.