How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

When you lose your key it is a good idea to make a backup. We have compiled a guide on the price to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big problem. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it is much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They will usually be capable of copying a basic metal key for around $50 or less. This kind of key does not have chip and will not be able unlock doors or start engines.

This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to work properly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, such as a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip that is used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you have a backup key, and keep it in a safe place.

It is important to determine the type of car key you own before seeking assistance. A more traditional, older car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however they are available at your local home improvement store for $10.

The next type of car key is the transponder, which has 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 kind of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have as it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter to turn your cheap car keys replacement on and then drive off with it.

A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular one, but that's only because it needs to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program a transponder key, but it is always best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this as well. This is because they often have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you an affordable price.

Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key works with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

Whatever type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to break into your own car yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will not assist you if they see indications that your car has been forced open or tampered with. It will be very difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll notice that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth up the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top, cost of replacement car key it is easy to determine whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of getting locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while working or running errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to create a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to mill the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code will then be found from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to meet the specifications of your car.

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

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in case you happen to lose your car key. This way, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to have it tow back by the dealership.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it's recommended to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. That's not even including the cost of replacement car key of a brand new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your key fob goes missing or stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a hassle. Now it's a serious problem. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or tucked inside pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you may want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for various vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than the price a dealership will charge, thereby which could save you $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that is the same model, year and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.