Why Replacement Car Keys Cost Will Be Your Next Big Obsession How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

Before you lose your key, it is a good idea to make a backup. We have put together a guide on the price to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge problem. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key does not have chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip that is used in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.


There are five different types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your vehicle. They're not as common, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. This can cost up to $500 or more based on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to start. This feature is great because it stops theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.

A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key, however, this is because it must be programmed. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming a transponder key, but it is best to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best choice since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.

A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out which kind of key is compatible with it, and whether or not it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with transponder password systems. They are a little more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle.

Regardless of what type of key you have, it is crucial that you never try to break into your own car yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. cost of a car key replacement will refuse to assist you if they see signs that your vehicle was opened or tampered with. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a traditional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a specific depth in the middle of the face of the key. This makes it easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from above. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you can avoid being locked out if you happen to misplace your key while you're working or running errands.

If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to call a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to create these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to create an alternative key that is laser-cut, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will use an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they do not have electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. 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 possession in case of case. Then, you can call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your car without having to pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

You may not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably uses one of the newest 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 car you own. Some locksmiths are able perform this reprogramming, however it is usually better to let your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event the fob goes missing or is stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a hassle. Now, it's a huge issue. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys come in various sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds down into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you may think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who offers programming for various vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at less than the price a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a fob and a key that's the same year, model and make as your original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.