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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

If you lose your keys It is an ideal idea to have a spare made. To make this easier we've created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing keys to your car was not a big problem. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They'll usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. This kind of key does not have chip and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys have transponders or Replacement car keys cost chips that must be programmed in order to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.

The cost of having a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.

There are five types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is near to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have since it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and the transmitter to turn your car on and take it away.

Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular key however, this is because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with an affordable price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is essential to conduct your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out which kind of key will work with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. These are more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that even if your key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

Regardless of what type of key you have, it is crucial that you never try to open the door of your car yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe signs that your vehicle has been forced open or altered. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to lose or steal than a metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a specific depth in the middle of the face of the key. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to determine whether it's fake or not. They are easy to identify and will not get locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working.

If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to make you the replacement key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to mill the key's metal. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will be extracted from the VIN and the key will be cut to meet the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced by a new one. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key available in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. That way you'll be able call the locksmith to cut and program the key for you, so that you can gain access to your vehicle without needing to pay to have it tow back at the dealership.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start the car without a key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually best to have your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.

The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. It's now a major issue. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one that comes with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" has an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement car key fobs from a company like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that can program your automobiles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge and save yourself around $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.