How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

It is a good idea to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. To make this easier, we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big deal. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace the key that was lost.

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

This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to function properly. This can only be done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, like the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and store it safely.

It's crucial to know the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert 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 the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. It could cost you $500 or more based on the car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to connect with their car. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This feature is beneficial 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.

The cost of a new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a conventional key, but that is because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys, and they can offer you a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key will work with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. However, they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car key replacement cost.

Regardless of what type of key you've got, it is crucial to never attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out in the event of signs that the vehicle has been damaged or opened. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to steal or lose than a traditional key. The keys don't have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a certain depth in the middle of the face of the key. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to tell whether it's a fake or G28 not. They are easy to identify and you won't be locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands.

If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time the hardware store you visit won't be able make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these types of key fobs.

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

Laser-cut keys are different from a traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronics or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced by the new model. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

Have at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your car without a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in your particular car, which can ensure it's done correctly.

Getting your car key fob replaced could cost up to $500, G28 depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car keys was a pain however, it's now a major issue. That's because modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" has a spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or tucked inside pockets like a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have a spare fob that works in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealer would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your car.