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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.

Before you lose your key it is a good idea to make a backup. We have put together a guide on how much it costs to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge deal. You could buy an extra key and then use 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 usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and therefore will not be able to 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 knows what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip used in modern cars can cost you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you always have a backup key, and that you keep it in a safe place.

It's important to identify the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however you can find them at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have as it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to start your car key replacements and then drive off with it.

Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular key but that's only because it must be programmed. Locksmiths are generally competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is always best to ask your dealership if they can do so also. This is because they usually have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to give you an affordable price.

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

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder-based password system. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your car.

It is crucial that you don't attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the kind of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see signs that your vehicle has been opened or tampered with. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to lose or steal 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 certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from the top, it is easy to determine if it's a fake or not. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working.

If you have a laser-cut key, then you'll need to call a professional locksmith with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the key's metal. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronics or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key.

Have at least one spare car key in your possession just in case. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed by the dealer.

Fobs

You may 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 computer chips that must be programmed to work with the car you own. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you but it's generally better to have your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it is an electronic key or Replacement Car Keys Cost a remote-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to take them. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden into a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that is in your car and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges and save yourself as much as $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.