How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.

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

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This type of key does not have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys include transponders, or chips, that must be programmed to work properly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.

The cost to have an electronic car key replacement key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it in a safe place.

There are five types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know which one you have before getting help with replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and is only possible with specific tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith dealer of cars. It can cost as high as $500 or more based on the make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed close to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to start. This is a great feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

The cost of a new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a standard key, but that is because it needs to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always ask your car dealer if they can do it. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with an affordable price.

A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. These are a bit more complex as they require a special key tool to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

Whatever type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you never try to open the door of your car yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will not assist you if they see indications that your car has been forced open or altered. It is very difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a traditional metal key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a particular depth on the key's face. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to identify whether 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 happen to misplace your key while you're working or doing errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, 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 to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then extracted from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronic car key replacement components or chips which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your car key replacements just in case. You can then call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow to the dealer.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old classic car however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it is usually recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done correctly.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced can cost as high as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key you might wish to have in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was a pain however, it's now a real problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one that has both a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. The "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank that can fold into the fob in the same way as the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden in a pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work in a different vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement keys for car aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who offers programming for various vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealership would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.