Five Replacement Car Keys Cost Lessons From The Professionals How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

It is a good idea to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a guide on how much it costs to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big deal. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it is much more expensive to replace keys lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They are usually capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for around $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys include transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed in order to function properly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional in service.

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

There are five distinct types of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be done with specific tools that are only accessible to a locksmith car dealer. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to start. This feature is great as it wards off theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

The cost of a new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a standard key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program the transponder key, however it is recommended to ask your dealership if they can do so as well. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you the most competitive price.

Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. It is essential to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to help, especially if they see indications that your car has been tampered with or forced open. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a conventional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from the top. They are easy to spot and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're doing errands or working.

If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to make you the replacement key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will use a machine that appears like a regular drill to cut the key's metal, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until 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 different from a regular transponder key because they do not have electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced by the new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car key. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.

Fobs

You may not have an old-fashioned car 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 to work with the car you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is usually best to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your specific car, which can ensure it's done right.

The cost of getting your car's key fob changed can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.


The loss of your car key was once a hassle. It's now a major problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves are able to steal them. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys come in various dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. The "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like a switchblade. car replacement keys near me is less likely to get lost or hidden into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare fob that is in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company that offers programming for many vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges and save yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that has the same model, year and make as the original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.