How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Car Key?

There are a variety of factors that affect the cost of replacing a car key. Standard keys that don't include any additional features are the cheapest to duplicate.

Car FOBs cost more because they require a specific immobilizer chip to be programmed to your car. The model and brand of your vehicle can also affect the cost.

Basic Keys

You might need to replace the lock if you lose your keys or a damaged key becomes stuck. This can be costly if you go through the dealership, but it could be a lot less expensive using an experienced locksmith in your area instead. The cost difference is related to the type of key you need and the services that are included.

Car keys or door keys that don't have any special features are the cheapest to replace and are available at a variety of hardware and home improvement as well as big-box stores. They're simple to make and generally cost between $1 to $4 for a new key blank. Keys with decorative designs are more expensive as they require machining, painting and licensing for cartoon characters or sports team logos.

In contrast to older keys, modern car keys are equipped with chips inside that have to be programmed for your specific vehicle. This means they are more expensive to duplicate than regular keys, which is the reason they are usually more expensive when you go through a dealership. However, you can save up to 20% by employing a local locksmith.

It isn't possible to program these keys in any hardware and home improvement stores therefore you need to do some research to locate a store that can do. But there are many choices available, including some chains like Ace Hardware that have a simple program that allows you to sync your keys with the remote. laser key cutting near me doesn't work for all cars, but it can help with various models.

Key FOB is another alternative. This is a small device that is similar to the standard car key, however, it comes with an inbuilt remote that lets you open your doors, start your engine, and control other functions. It is also more difficult to duplicate than a regular key because it has a transponder which the car's computer recognizes when it is placed in. They are usually available at a local dealership or on the internet. Some are more expensive than others, and some come with subscriptions to auto security features, such as push-to-start or automatic locking.

Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys are also known as sidewinder or internal keys. They provide greater security for owners of vehicles. These kinds of keys are made to make it difficult for thieves to duplicate the keys and are a great way to deter theft due to this. Laser-cut keys are made of stronger material than traditional keys and are less likely to break over time. This can save you money in the long run on replacements.

Another benefit of keys made with lasers is that they are harder to pick than standard car keys. This is because of the fact that they've tiny cuts that are aligned with the pins that are in the lock. To duplicate keys of this type the thief requires specialized equipment. Many people don't have this kind of. Additionally, a laser-cut keys has a distinct pattern that is specific to each individual car. This makes it extremely difficult for a thief to make use of a duplicate key to open a vehicle.

The majority of laser-cut keys come with a transponder chip that adds even more security to the car key. The transponder chip is programmed to the engine code of the vehicle so that only the correct key can be used. The car will not start in the event that the chip is not within its range when it is inserted into ignition. This adds an extra layer of security against theft because it is nearly impossible for a thief make copies of your keys which will work inside your ignition.

Laser cut keys are a popular choice for cars that are brand new and are frequently employed in high-end vehicles. They are more expensive than traditional keys, but they have a host of benefits that make them worth the cost. Laser-cut keys, for example are more durable and thicker durable than traditional keys. They are also less likely to break or get damaged over time. They are also a lot more difficult to find and thus an excellent deterrent to theft.

Switchblade Keys

If you have a brand newer vehicle, it is likely that you have keys that look like a cell phone. These are fantastic because they keep your keys from jingling, and you won't accidentally lock yourself out of your car. However, they're also expensive to replace. If you lose your keyfob, you'll have to visit a locksmith or dealer to obtain a replacement. This can cost up to $200 for a basic car key.

Another type of car key that's becoming increasingly popular is the switchblade key. It folds up into fobs when not in use, and then is released when you press an icon on the fob. This key can have either the standard or laser cut shank. The more sophisticated laser-cut version is more expensive than the basic key. Switchblade keys are a favorite among those who want to limit the amount of jingling that goes through their pockets.

A standard transponder key includes a key head and a plastic top, which houses the key's transponder chip. It can also be difficult to spot from a distance, since it has a different look than other car keys. The majority of locksmiths can create an exact copy of a transponder car keys, but the process may take longer.

In contrast to a normal transponder key, a remote head key (or a Fobik key) is equipped with a microchip that allows the key to send an electronic signal to the car's onboard system. The system informs the ignition to turn on. The keys are available at the majority of auto locksmiths, and at some big box stores.


A key blade such as the BladeKey Bolt can be a great option for those who want to not carry a heavy chain or declutter their pockets. It is made of aluminum that has been anodized or raw, and it can be inserted into the top of a key. It comes with an a chicago screw that acts as a lock and pivot, so it stays in place while you use the keys. The BladeKey has an elongated mortise that can accept an a-zip tie head which can be used as an extra secure key.

High Security Keys

High security keys are more secure than basic keys. They are protected by a unique coding system that blocks them from being duplicated by anyone but the original owner. These keys are also designed to be more difficult to pick or break. They can even feature a shatterproof coating or a material which is resistant to being damaged by saws or other tools. These locks are often employed in high-security office and other buildings, such as casinos or banks.

They are a good choice for commercial customers who wish to minimize the chance of theft as well as other security threats. They are a good choice for homeowners in areas with high rates of crime who want peace of mind knowing their belongings are safe.

These types of locks are typically more expensive than standard keys, however they offer greater protection against forced entry. They can be resistant against drilling, bumping and picking. Many of them feature solid screws that can't be removed or broken using the use of a sledgehammer or wrench.

The most well-known type of high security lock is the ABUS Vitess. This locking system is patent-pending and cannot be copied by anyone other than the manufacturer. This ensures that only the authorized owner of the key has access to the property. This lock is particularly useful for homes and business that have multiple persons managing the property.

There are two types of high security keys: patented and restricted. Patented keys are the preferred option. Keys are protected by a patent which means they are not copied by your local hardware shop. They can only be cut and duplicated by locksmiths who have the proper rights. Restricted keys are another option. They are typically secured by a code that requires the locksmith to have an identification piece before they can duplicate them.

In addition to protecting against forcible entry, these keys also assist in preventing identity theft and other frauds. They can also help ensure that only the owner who is authorized has access to the property, and can also help keep germs from spreading and other harmful substances. These locks are also a great option for commercial customers that need to keep track of inventory and other valuables.