How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good plan to purchase a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge problem. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

An auto locksmith can be the most affordable alternative. They will usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer service professional.

The cost of having an electronic key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere secure.

It's crucial to know the type of car keys you have before seeking help. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. They're not as common however, you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the car's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with specific tools that are accessible to a locksmith dealer of cars. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to connect with their car. They incorporate a microchip in the key. When the key is near to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and take off with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder keys is typically a little more expensive than a traditional key, but that is because it must be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program the transponder key, however it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it as well. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to offer you the most competitive 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 what type of key works with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with transponder password systems. These are a bit more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been copied, it will not work with your car key replacement price.

Whatever type of key you've got, it is crucial to never attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and could cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help, especially if they see indications that your vehicle has been damaged or forced open. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to lose or steal 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 very easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. They are easy to recognize and will not get locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call a locksmith professional with the equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to make you a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to mill the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are different from a normal transponder keys because they do not have electronics or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced with the new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car key. This way you'll be able call the locksmith and have it cut and programmed for you so that you gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to get it tow-back at the dealership.

Fobs

You might not have an old-fashioned car but your vehicle probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you but it's generally better to have your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are well-versed in your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

The cost of replacing your car key cover replacement key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might want to have in case your key fob goes missing or stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves are able to steal them. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. The "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank that can fold into the fob in the same way as the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.