How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It is never pleasant to lose your car replacement key keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.

When you lose your key, it is recommended to make a backup. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge problem. You could buy a spare key and use it to turn 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 most affordable alternative. They'll usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This type of key doesn't have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This is only done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer service professional.

The cost to have a mechanical key copied is fairly low however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.

There are five different types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These aren't common anymore however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and can only be copied using specific tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. It could cost you $500 or more depending on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They incorporate a microchip in the key. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to begin. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could take off with it.

A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key, however, this is because it has to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best option because they have the most experience in programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is crucial to conduct your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out what type of key is compatible with it and whether 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 a special key tool to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been copied, it will not work with your vehicle.

It is crucial that you don't attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and could make mechanics reluctant to assist you, especially if they see evidence that the vehicle has been altered or opened. It is very difficult to obtain a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to lose or steal than a key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a particular depth in the middle of the face of the key. When looking at the key from above it's easy to determine whether it's fake or not. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out if you have your key lost car keys replacement cost while doing errands or working.

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

A locksmith uses a machine that appears like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which 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 according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they don't contain electronics or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced by a new one. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. Then, you can call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your car without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start the car without having a key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is usually better to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of having your car's key replacements for cars fob replaced can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This does not include the cost of an electronic car key replacement backup key that you might need in the event that the fob goes missing or is stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience however, it's now a real problem. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" comes with 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 get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and could require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that is 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 that offers programming for many vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than the price a dealership will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.