How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.

It is a good idea to order an extra key before you lose yours. To make this easier, we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big problem. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's much more costly to replace lost keys.

Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key doesn't have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to work properly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost of having a mechanical key copied is relatively low however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.

It is important to determine the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next kind of car key cover replacement key is the transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and is only possible with specific tools that are accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. This can cost up to $500 or more depending on the car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is placed close to your car, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a conventional key, but that is because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do it. They are the best option since they have the most experience in programming these keys and can give you a better rate.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since 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 vehicle.

It is important to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to assist you, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been damaged or opened. This could make it hard to get a replacement, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to steal or lose than a traditional key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth up the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from the top, it is easy to determine whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk getting locked out if you lose your key while you're at work or running for errands.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the key's metal. This will reduce 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 according to the specifications of your car.

Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they do not have electronics or chips that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by a new one. 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 get the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is usually best to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done right.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was a hassle, but now it's a major issue. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for programmed thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or tucked inside the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement remote car keys from a business like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company that can program your automobiles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that's the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.