5 Replacement Car Keys Cost Projects That Work For Any Budget How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

Before you lose your key It is an ideal idea to have a spare made. We have put together a guide on the price to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge issue. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Cheapest car key replacement near me , however, cars are more technologically advanced and it is much more expensive to replace keys lost.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate keys 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.

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

The cost to have a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder key that has an embedded security chip that sends an electronic signal to the car's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specialized tools that are accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.

A transponder key is slightly more than a regular one, however, it's because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best choice since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and can offer you a better price.


A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are a little more complicated because they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not 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 could raise red flags with insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out particularly if they notice signs that the vehicle has been damaged or forced open. This can make it very hard to get an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to take or lose than a metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a particular depth on the face of the key. When you look at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of being locked out if you lose your keys while working or doing for errands.

If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call a professional locksmith who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit won't be able create an original laser-cut key since they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith will employ a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will then be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not have any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.

It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

You may not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able perform this reprogramming, however it is usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced 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 brand new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car keys was an inconvenience, but now it's a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves can take keys. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. The "smart" key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a pocket of a coat. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that can program your vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself as much as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that is the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.