How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

It is a good idea to buy a spare key before you lose yours. To make this easier, we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big issue. You could just buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace a lost key.

Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. This type of key isn't equipped with a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders or chips that must be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional that knows what they are doing, such as the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.

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

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

The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to start. This feature is great as it wards off theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and drive away with it.

The cost of a new transponder key is typically higher than a standard key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by many locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to provide you with an affordable price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key it is compatible with and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. They are a little more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been copied, it will not work with your vehicle.

Whatever type of key you've got, it is crucial that you never try to open the door of your car yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice indications that your car has been forced open or damaged. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile car key replacement near me auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's a lot harder to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. The keys don't have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a certain depth on the face of the key. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands.

If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call a locksmith professional with the equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will use an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

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

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

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start it without 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, though it's usually recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your specific car and can ensure that it's done right.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced can cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key that you may need in the event the fob goes missing or is stolen.

Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. It's now a major problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost car key replacement near me or hidden in the pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement car key cost from a business such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealer will charge, thereby which could save you $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.