See What Replacement Car Keys Cost Tricks The Celebs Are Using

How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

It is a good plan to order an extra key before you lose yours. To make this easier we've created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge issue. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace the key that was lost.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest option. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key at a cost of $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with chips and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, like an auto locksmith in your area or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost to get a mechanical key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere safe.

It's crucial to know the kind of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A more traditional, older cheap car keys replacement key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. 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 the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, based 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 an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is close to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is great because it stops theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter to turn on your car and then drive off with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a traditional key, but only because it needs to be programmed as well. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program the transponder key, however it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this as well. This is because they often have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with a more competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options before you purchase 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 newer vehicles come with a transponder password system. They are a little more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your car.

It is essential that you do not try to break into your car on your own, no matter the kind of key. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to help particularly if they notice evidence that the vehicle has been altered or forced open. This can make it very difficult to obtain a replacement, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

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 be stolen than a conventional metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you can avoid being locked out if you misplace your keys while at work or doing errands.

If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able 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 employ a machine that appears like a standard drill to mill the key's metal, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they don't contain electronic components or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys are expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. So you'll be able contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you, so that you can have access to your car again, without having to pay to have it tow back at the dealership.

Fobs

You might not have an old classic car however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process however it's recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was a hassle However, now it's a major issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

These new keys come in a variety of shapes and sizes however the most expensive is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put in a pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare key fob that is in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying 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 might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges which could save you as much as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that is the same model, year and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.