How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

It is a good plan to purchase a spare key before you lose yours. We have put together a guide on how much it costs to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge problem. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's more expensive to replace keys lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key for around $50 or less. car key replacement near me of key does not have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys have transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who 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 having an electronic key copied is relatively low, but 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 in a safe place.


It is important to determine the kind of car key you have before seeking help. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular however, they are available at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The next type of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and it can only be copied using specific tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. This can cost up to $500 or more depending on your car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is near to your car, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it on and take off with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a standard key, but this is due to the fact that it has to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it also. They are the best choice because they have the most experience in programming these keys and will offer you a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that even if the key is cloned, it will not work with your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got, it is crucial that you do not attempt to gain entry into your car yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics won't help you if they notice signs that your car has been opened or altered. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a specific depth along the face of the key. This makes it very easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you misplace your key while you're at work or doing for errands.

If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able create the replacement key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, so they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in case of. That way, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you, so that you gain access to your vehicle again without having to pay to have it tow back at the dealership.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able perform this reprogramming, however it is usually recommended to let your dealer do it. car key replacements are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can 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 that you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience, but 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. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which can fold into the fob in the same way as an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work in another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for many different vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself around $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.