Replacement Car Keys Cost 101 A Complete Guide For Beginners How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

It is a good plan to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. To make it easier we've created a list of 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 an extra and put it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. car key replacements will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key for about $50 or less. However, this type of key isn't equipped with chips and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys include transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost to get a mechanical key copied is fairly low however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.

It is important to determine the kind of car key you own before seeking assistance. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your vehicle. They're not as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied using specific tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect with their car. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to begin. 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 off and drive off with it.

A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular one, however, this is because it must be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is always best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it also. They are the best choice since they have the most expertise in programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is important to research the key options before you purchase your next car. You should be able to figure out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. These are a bit more complex as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key is duplicated, it won't work with your car.

It is essential that you do not try to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics won't help you if they see signs that your car has been forced open or tampered with. This could make it difficult to obtain an exchange, so make certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a specific depth in the middle of the face of the key. This makes it very easy to differentiate between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from above. They are easy to identify and you won't be locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit will not be able to make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your car.

Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronics or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced by the new model. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession just in case. So, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you, so that you have access to your car again, without having to pay to get it tow back by the dealership.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start your car without a key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally best to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

Getting your car key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you use and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event the fob goes missing or is stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was an inconvenience However, now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys come in a variety of sizes and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has a transponder and a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds down into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges and save yourself around $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.