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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.

It is a good idea to buy an extra key before you lose yours. To make this easier we've put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

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

Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with chips and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost to have an electronic key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe.

It is important to determine the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A more traditional, older car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on 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 the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. The cost for replacement car key for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to start. This is a great feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will require both the correct key and the transmitter to start your car and then drive off with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is usually slightly more expensive than a standard key, but that is because it must be programmed as well. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program keys that have transponders, but it is always best to ask your car dealership whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best choice as they have the best experience in programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is crucial to conduct your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key it is compatible with and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder system. They are a little more complicated because they require a special key tool to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your car.

It is important that you don't attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe signs that your car has been opened or altered. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, so be certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to take or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to tell if it's a fake or not. They are easy to identify and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost while working or running errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment for replacement making these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique code of the key is then extracted from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not contain any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a full rebuild of the key.

It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you happen to lose your car keys. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be towed by the dealer.

Fobs

You might not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it's better to let your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done right.

Getting your car key fob replaced can cost up to $500, depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience however, it's now an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal them. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys come in different sizes and shapes however the most expensive is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" features a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or tucked inside the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges and save yourself up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.