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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.

When you lose your key It is a good idea to have a spare. To make this easier we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, today's cars are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace a lost key.

The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They'll usually be capable of copying a basic metal key for about $50 or less. However, this type of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to work properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance a local locksmith or even an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost to have a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and store it safely.

There are five distinct types of car keys available, so it's important to know which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. It could cost you $500 or more depending on your car's model and Replacement car keys cost make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to start. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter to turn your car on and drive away with it.

A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular key however, this is because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with many locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer about whether they are able to do it. This is because they usually have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to offer you a more competitive price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out what type of key works with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. These are more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

Whatever type of key you have, it is crucial to never attempt to gain entry into your car yourself. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and could cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out particularly if they notice signs that the vehicle has been altered or forced open. This can make it very difficult to obtain a replacement, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to take or lose than a metal key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a certain depth on the face of the key. This makes it very easy to differentiate between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from above. They are easy to identify and will not get locked out if your key is lost while doing errands or working.

If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, replacement car keys cost as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears like a regular drill to mill the key's metal, which will cut off 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 be cut to match your vehicle's specifications.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car keys. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can get back into your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow to the dealer.

Fobs

You may not own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that the fob goes missing or is stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a hassle. Now it's a serious problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal them. The advances in technology for car key battery replacement near me keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. The "smart" key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program various vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than the price a dealership will charge, thereby which could save you $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.