How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's emergency car key replacement Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

Before you lose your key, it is recommended to have a spare. We have compiled a guide on how much it costs to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big problem. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key doesn't have chip and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to function correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they're doing, like the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost for replacement car key you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.

There are five types of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on your car. They're not as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. This can cost up to $500 or more based on your car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They are equipped with microchips in the keys. When the key is put into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter to turn your car on and take it away.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to offer you the most competitive price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. It is essential to conduct your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out what type of key works with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Some newer cars come equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your car.

It is crucial that you don't attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to assist you particularly if they notice signs that the car has been tampered with or forced to open. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key fobs for cars key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a particular depth on the face of the key. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to determine if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you're less likely to risk getting locked out if you misplace your keys while at work or doing around.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store will not be able to create an original laser-cut key since they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these types of keys.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to mill the metal of the key. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a full rebuild of the key.

Have at least one spare car key in your car just in case of. So, you'll be able to call 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 towed back by the dealership.

Fobs

You may not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually better to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

Getting your car key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle however, it's now an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves can take keys. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

These new keys come in various sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that has an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart" key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and can fold into the fob in the same way as the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing a replacement key fob for car aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges and save yourself around $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a fob and a key that's the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.