How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.

It is a good idea to order a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have put together a guide on how much it costs to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big deal. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced, and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. However, this kind of key doesn't come with a chip and won't be 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 have to be programmed to work properly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional.

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

It's important to identify the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using special tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on your car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have because it discourages theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to start your car and drive away with it.

A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key however, this is because it must be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it also. They are the best option because they have the most experience in programming these keys and will give you a better rate.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is crucial to conduct your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder password system. These are a bit more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. However, they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that if your key were copied, it will not work in your car.

Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they observe indications that your car has been forced open or altered. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to take or lose than a key made of metal. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a particular depth along the face of the key. This makes it very easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you lose your key while you're at work or running for errands.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to an expert locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able create an alternative key that is laser-cut, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will use a machine that appears like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN and the key will be cut to match your vehicle's specifications.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, which means they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.

Have at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case of. So, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to get it tow back to the dealership.

Fobs

You might not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys contain special computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the car you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you but it's generally best to have your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done correctly.

Getting your car key fob changed can cost up to $500, based on the type of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge issue. That's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys come in various shapes and sizes, but the most expensive is one that has the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" has an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement keys for cars aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program many different vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than 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, make and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.