How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

Before you lose your key, it is a good idea to have a spare made. We have put together a guide on the price to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too 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. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's more expensive to replace keys lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to work properly. This can only be done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere safe.

There are five kinds of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These aren't common anymore however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specific tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to start. This feature is great 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.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder keys is typically higher than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it has to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program a transponder key, but it is recommended to ask your dealership if they can do so as well. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to provide you with a more competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out what type of key is compatible with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are a little more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

Whatever type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you never try to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see indications that your car has been forced open or tampered with. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge 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 tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from the top. They are easy to identify and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while doing errands or working.

If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to call an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to make you the replacement key fobs for cars key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the key's metal. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced by a new one. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire 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. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow to the dealer.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old-fashioned car however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. These keys have special computer chips that need to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually best to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about your specific car, which can ensure it's done correctly.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a hassle. Now it's a serious problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that convenient and powerful that thieves can take keys. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which folds into the fob like a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys replacement for cars and may need to be replaced by a dealer.

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 key and lock specialist that offers programming for many vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges which could save you as much as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a fob and a key that's the same model, year and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.