How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

When you lose your key, it is an ideal idea to have a spare. To make it easier, we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

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

The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. However, this type of key isn't equipped with a chip and will not be able to open 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 correctly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is fairly low however programming the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you always have a backup key, and keep it in a safe place.

There are five types of car keys available, so it's important to know which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

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

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to connect with their car. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed close to your vehicle or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter to turn your car on and drive away with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but that is because it must be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be competent to program the transponder key, however it is always best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it also. They are the best choice since they have the most expertise in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. It is essential to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. They are a little more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was 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 by yourself. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and could cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out particularly if they notice evidence that the car has been tampered with or forced to open. This will make it extremely hard to get an exchange, so make sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to take or lose than a traditional key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you're not at risk of being locked out if you misplace your key while you're at work or running errands.

If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. In the majority of cases, your local hardware store will not be able to make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the tools required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith will use a machine that looks very like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be retrieved from the VIN and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are different from a regular transponder key because they do not have electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. So you'll be able call the locksmith to cut and program the key for you, so that you can gain access to your vehicle again without having to pay to have it tow back to the dealership.

Fobs

You may not own an old classic vehicle however, your car key replacement likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it is generally better to let your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in your particular car and can ensure that it's done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

Losing your car key was once a hassle. It's now a major problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern cars have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves are able to take them. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank that can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or put in a pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work with another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement car key fobs from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You may 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 has the same model, year and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.