How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

It is a good plan to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make it easier, we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big deal. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced and it is much more costly to replace lost keys.

The cheapest replacement car keys way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key does not have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys have transponders or chips that must be programmed properly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car keys replacements dealer professional in service.

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

It's crucial to know the type of car key you own before seeking assistance. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key to communicate with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have because it discourages theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter to turn on your car and then drive off with it.

Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular one, however, this is because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your dealer if they can do it. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to give you a more competitive price.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. These are more complex as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car.

Whatever type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. This can make it very difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to steal or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a specific depth in the middle of the face of the key. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to determine if it's a fake or not. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out if your key is lost car keys replacement cost while you're working or running errands.

If you own a laser-cut key, then you will need to contact a locksmith professional with the equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to provide you with an alternative key that is laser-cut, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the metal of the key replacement car. This will remove the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code can be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.

Keep at least one spare car keys replacement key in your possession in case of the event of. You can then contact a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can be back in your car without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start your car without having a key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, based on the kind of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. That's not even including the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge issue. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart" key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare fob that can be used in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for less than the price a dealership would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.