How Much Do replacement car keys cost (a cool way to improve)?

It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

It is a good idea to purchase a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the price to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big issue. You could just purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to employ an auto locksmith. They can usually copy keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't come with a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere safe.

It is important to determine the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your car. They're not as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key replacements for cars, and it can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is close to your car, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to start. This feature is great as it wards off theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could take off with it.

Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular key however, it's because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with many locksmiths, but you should always ask your car dealer if they can do it. They are the best option as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and will give you a better rate.

Many automakers haplace your keys while at work or running for errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. Most of the time the hardware store you visit won't be able create an original laser-cut key since they don't have the tools required to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith will employ a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN and the key will then be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not have any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start the car without a key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.

The cost of getting your car's key fob changed can cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you use and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that 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 issue. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or tucked inside the pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for many different vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that's the same year, model and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.