How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

It is a good idea to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make this easier we've put together a guide to the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced, and it is much more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys include transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed correctly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you have a backup key, and keep it in a safe place.

It's important to identify the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. They're not as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the car's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specific tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They use a microchip in the key. When the key is close to your car or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This feature is beneficial because it stops theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and take it away.

A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular one, but that's only because it must 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. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with the most competitive price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to find out what type of key works with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. These are a bit more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

It is crucial that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the type of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they notice signs that your vehicle was opened or altered. This can make it very difficult to obtain a replacement, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a certain depth on the face of the key. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to determine whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're not at risk of getting locked out if you misplace your key while you're at work or running around.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to make you a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith uses 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 key's unique code will then be extracted from the VIN and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your car.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside that can be replaced, which means that they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new car key replacement key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession in case of case of. Then, you can call an 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 might not have an old classic car but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process but it's generally better to have your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in your particular car and can ensure that it's done correctly.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you drive and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key that you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was an inconvenience however, it's now a real problem. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart" key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or put in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare key 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 an independent key and lock specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges and save yourself as much as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that has the same model, year and model as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.