How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

If you lose your keys it is recommended to have a spare made. To make this easier we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge problem. You could just buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace the key that was lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This type of key does not have 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 to function properly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or a car dealership service professional.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip used in modern cars can cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.

There are five types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These aren't common anymore however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder, which has an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using special tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, replacement car Key depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect with their car. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed close to your car or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This feature is great as it wards off theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and take off with it.

A transponder key is a little bit more than a regular one, however, this is because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with many locksmiths, but you should always ask your car dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you the most competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it is important to research the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key works with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are a bit more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was duplicated, replacement car key it wouldn't work in your car.

Whatever type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out in the event of evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to take or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a specific depth along the key's face. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to spot and will not get locked out if your key is lost while you're doing errands or working.

If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to provide you with 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 the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will cut all the surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then extracted from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you happen to lose your car key. This way you'll be able contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you can have access to your car without having to pay to get it tow back at the dealership.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start the car without having a key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you use and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. 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 keys was once a source of frustration. It's now a major issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key replacement car is most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, like the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement car key from a company such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.