How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

It is a good plan to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. To make this easier we've put together a guide to how much replacement car key fob car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

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

Employing an auto locksmith car key replacement cost is the cheapest alternative. They can usually copy a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key does not have chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed correctly. This is only done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.

The cost of having a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.

There are five distinct types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The next type of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and it can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use an embedded microchip in the key to communicate with your car. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have since it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key, however, it's because it must be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program the transponder key, however it is best to ask your car dealership whether they are able to do this as well. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with the most competitive price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out what type of key works with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they use rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car key replacement.

It is important that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics won't help you if they observe signs that your vehicle has been forced open or damaged. It will be very difficult to obtain a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to lose or steal than a metal key. The keys don't have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a certain depth on the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from above. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working.

If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to create a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will use a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will then be extracted from the VIN, and the key will be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's always 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 car without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, the chances that your car is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally better to have your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in your specific car and can ensure that it's done correctly.

The cost of getting your car's key fob changed can cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you use and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key replacement key was a hassle however, it's now an actual issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, however the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges, saving yourself around $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as the original so it can be coded to work with your car.