How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

It is a good plan to buy an extra key before you lose yours. We have put together a guide on the price to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys include transponders, or chips, which must be programmed to work properly. This can only be done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip in modern cars can cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it in a safe place.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, Replacement Car Keys Cost older car key is a double-edged metal lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These aren't common anymore however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with specialized tools that are available to a locksmith or car dealer. It can cost as high as $500 or more based on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to connect with their car. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. 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 wonderful feature to have as it discourages theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn on your car and drive away with it.

Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular key however, it's because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they often have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to give you an affordable price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which type of key it is compatible with and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. They are a little more complicated as they require a special key tool to program them. However, they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle.

It is crucial to not 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 observe signs that your car was opened or altered. This will make it extremely hard to get an exchange, so make certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's a lot harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a certain depth on the face of the key. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from the top. 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 a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to make you a laser-cut replacement key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to mill the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.

It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car key. You can then contact a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your car without having to pay for it to be towed by the dealer.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old-fashioned car however, your car likely uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able perform this reprogramming, however it is generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your key fob goes missing or stolen.

The loss of your car key replacement cost key was once a hassle. Now it's a serious issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that convenient and powerful that thieves can take keys. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" has an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds down into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you might think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and Replacement Car Keys Cost lock that offers programming for many different vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than the price a dealership will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that's the same model, year and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.