How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

It is a good idea to order an extra key before you lose yours. To make it easier, we have put together a guide to the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

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

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key for about $50 or less. However, this type of key isn't equipped with chips and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost to have a mechanical key copied is relatively low, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your car. They're not as common however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the car's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and can only be copied using specialized tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This feature is great as it wards off theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter to turn your car on and take it away.

Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular key but that's only because it must be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program keys that have transponders, but it is always best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best option as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems in place. It is essential to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key will work with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. They are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car.

It is crucial that you do not try to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they notice signs that your car has been forced open or damaged. This can make it very hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to steal or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid being locked out in the event that you lose your key while you're working or doing around.

If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store will not be able to make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of keys.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to mill the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code can be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don't have any chips or electronics inside that can be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

Have at least one spare car key in your car just in the event of. Then, Replacement Car keys cost you can call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.

Fobs

You might not own an old classic vehicle, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process, though it's usually better to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.

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

It used to be that losing your car keys was a pain, but now it's a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal them. The advances in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves.

These new keys come in various shapes and sizes however the most expensive is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" features a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you may think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself around $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.