How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

If you lose your keys, it is recommended to have a spare made. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace the car key fob replacement key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it is much more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This kind 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 in order to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.

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

There are five distinct kinds of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have before seeking help to replace it. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your car. These keys replacement for cars aren't as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The next kind of car key is a transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is close to your vehicle, or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and drive away with it.

A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular one, but that's only because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to give you a more competitive price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out what type of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires a remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder password system. They are a little 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 are used. This means that if your keys were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

Whatever type of key you have, it is crucial that you never try to break into your own vehicle yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and many mechanics won't help you if they notice signs that your car was opened or tampered with. This can make it very difficult to obtain a replacement key fob for car, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a conventional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a certain depth on the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to identify whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you lose your keys while at work or doing errands.

If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to talk to a locksmith professional with the equipment to create these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to create a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will use a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to 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.

Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they do not have electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

Have at least one spare car key in your possession just in case of. So, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle again, without needing to pay to have it tow-back at the dealership.

Fobs

You might not own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.

The cost for car key replacement of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle, but now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves can take them. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart" key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you may want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for various vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges and save yourself around $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.