How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

It is a good idea to buy an extra key before you lose yours. We have put together a guide on the cost to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace lost keys.

The cheapest method of doing this is to employ an auto locksmith. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key for about $50 or less. This kind of key doesn't have chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere safe.

There are five types of car keys available, so it's important to know which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able 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 sends an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and it can only be copied using specialized tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. It could cost you $500 or more depending on the car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is near to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and take off with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder keys is typically a little more expensive than a traditional key, but this is due to the fact that it must be programmed. Locksmiths are generally able to program the transponder key, however it is recommended to ask your dealership if they can do so as well. This How.Much Is A Replacement Car Key because they often have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to offer you an affordable price.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to buying your next car. You will be able to figure out which kind of key works with it, and whether or not it requires a remote car key replacement to unlock it.

Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key is copied, it will not work with your car.

Whatever type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to gain entry into your vehicle yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out particularly if they notice indications that your vehicle has been damaged or opened. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a groove which cuts to a specific depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're less likely to risk getting locked out if you lose your keys while working or doing errands.

If you have an uncut laser key, you will need to contact a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained 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 them that could be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car key. This way, you'll be able to call the locksmith to cut and program the key for you, so that you can have access to your car without having to pay to get it tow-back by the dealership.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you but it's generally best to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost up to $500, based on the type of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might wish to have in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key fob replacement key was a pain However, now it's a real problem. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" has an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote car key replacement-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 that can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement car keys price aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealership would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that is the same model, year and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.