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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good plan to order a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a guide on how much it costs to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace the key that was lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't have a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to work correctly. This can only by done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively low, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.

There are five types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. They're not as common, replacement car keys cost but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and is only possible with special tools that are accessible to a locksmith car dealer. It could cost you $500 or more based on the car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key to communicate with your car. When the key is put into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to start. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter to start your car and then drive off with it.

A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular key, however, this is because it needs to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally competent to program a transponder key, but it is recommended to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so as well. They are the best option because they have the most expertise in programming these keys and will give you a better rate.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's important to research the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your car.

It is crucial to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics won't help you if they notice signs that your vehicle has been opened or tampered with. This could make it difficult to obtain a replacement car key cost, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's much harder to lose or steal than a conventional metal key. The keys don't have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a specific depth in the middle of the face of the key. When looking at the key from the top, it is easy to identify if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out if your key is lost while you're 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. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will use an apparatus that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the key's metal. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code can be retrieved from the VIN and the key will be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they don't contain electronic components or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession in case of the event of. You can then contact an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your car without a key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually better to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have 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. That's not even including the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your fob gets lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was a hassle However, now it's a major issue. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you may want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement key fobs for cars from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for less than what a dealer will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that has the same year, model and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.