How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.

If you lose your keys it is recommended to have a spare. To make this more convenient, we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest alternative. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they're doing, like an auto locksmith in your area or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip that is used in a modern car will usually cost of replacement car key you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you have a backup key, and keep it in a safe place.

There are five distinct types of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, cost of replacement car key based on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is near to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have since it discourages theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car replacement key, because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder keys is typically higher than a conventional key, but only because it needs to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally competent to program the transponder key, cost of replacement car key however it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it as well. This is because they usually have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to provide you with a more competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is essential to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key it is compatible with and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder-based password system. These are a bit more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're 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 gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and could cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to assist you particularly if they notice evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or opened. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth up the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to identify whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you misplace your keys while at work or doing errands.

If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to call a professional locksmith who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In most cases the hardware store you visit will not be able to make you 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 use a machine that looks very like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are not like traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronics or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced by the new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car keys. You can then call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

You may not have an old classic car, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. The keys contain electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.

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

It was once the case that losing your car key was an inconvenience however, it's now a major issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" has a spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you may want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges and save yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that is the same model, year and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.