How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.

When you lose your key, it is recommended to have a spare. We have compiled a guide on the cost to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge deal. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key does not have chip and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

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

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip that is used in a modern car will usually 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 somewhere secure.

There are five types of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. They're not as common, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with special tools that are available to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They incorporate a microchip in the key. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have because it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and Replacement Car Keys Cost the transmitter in order to start your car and drive away with it.

The cost of a new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a traditional replacement key fob for car, but that is because it has to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming the transponder key, you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you misplace your key while you're working or doing for errands.

If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store isn't able to make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code can be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not have any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a full rebuild of the key.

Keep a spare car key in your car just in case of. Then, you can call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow to the dealer.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start the car without a key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it is generally recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done right.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might want to have in case 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, explains that the modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can take keys. The advances in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves.

The new keys come in a variety of shapes and sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare fob that works in your car and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement key for car cost from a business such as Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges and save yourself around $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.