How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of keys to your car key replacement is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

It is a good idea to order a spare key before you lose yours. We have put together a guide on the price to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge deal. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's much more expensive to replace keys lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to employ an auto locksmith. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. This type of key doesn't have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

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

The cost to have a mechanical key copied is fairly low however programming the chips in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you always have a backup key and keep it in a safe place.

There are five distinct types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with specific tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer in the car keys lost replacement. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This feature is beneficial 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.

A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key however, this is because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best choice because they have the most experience in programming these keys and will offer you a better price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to buying your next car. You should be able to figure out which kind of key it is compatible with and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your car key replacement cost.

It is essential to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe indications that your car was opened or altered. This can make it very hard to get replacement key fob for car parts, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile replacement car keys auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of getting locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while working or doing around.

If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able make you the replacement key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will be extracted from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to meet the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they don't contain electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced with the new model. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession in case of the event of. This way, you'll be able to call the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you gain access to your vehicle again without needing to pay to have it tow back by the dealership.

Fobs

You may not have an old classic car, but your car probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process, though it's usually better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that the fob goes missing or is stolen.

The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves are able to steal them. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one that comes with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. The "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and can 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 that can program your automobiles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than the price a dealership will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your car.