How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

When you lose your key it is recommended to have a spare. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, today's cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace a lost key.

An auto locksmith can be the most affordable alternative. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, that must be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be done by a professional that knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.

The cost of having an electronic key copied is fairly low however programming the chips in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you always have a backup key, and that you keep it in a safe place.

It's important to identify the kind of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next type of car key is a transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be duplicated using specialized tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer of cars. It could cost of replacement car key you $500 or more based on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They are equipped with microchips in the keys. When the key is placed close to your vehicle or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This feature is great because it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

A transponder key is a little bit more than a regular key, but that's only because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to give you the most competitive price.

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

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they use rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

Whatever type of key you've got, it is crucial to never attempt to gain entry into your car yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to assist you, especially if they see evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key fob for car key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to steal or lose than a traditional 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 across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from above. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're doing errands or working.

If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to talk to an expert locksmith who has the necessary equipment to create these kinds of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store won't be able create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith will employ a machine that appears like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved 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 have any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your possession just in the event of. That way you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you, so that you can have access to your car replacement key cost without having to pay to have it tow-back by the dealership.

Fobs

You may not have an old classic car however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys have special computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it's best to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. It's now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves are able to take keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

These new keys come in different shapes and sizes however the most expensive one is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" has an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or tucked inside pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work with another vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for less than what a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that is the same model, year and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.