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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

Before you lose your key it is a good idea to have a spare made. To make this easier, we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys near me car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

The cheapest way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key at a cost of $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to function properly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, such as an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you have a backup key, and keep it in a safe place.

There are five kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before seeking help to replace it. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with specific tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith dealer of cars. It can cost as high as $500 or more based on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is near to your car, or placed in the ignition, Replacement Car Keys it sends an electronic code that tells your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter to turn on your car and drive away with it.

A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key, however, it's because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer if they can do it. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to offer you an affordable price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is essential to conduct your research before purchasing your next car. You should be able to figure out which type of key works with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. These are a bit more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they use rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.

It is important to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, replacement car keys no matter the type of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will not assist you if they notice indications that your car has been forced open or damaged. It will be very difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or get stolen than a conventional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from above. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you lose your keys while working or running for errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In most cases the hardware store you visit will not be able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith will use an instrument that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

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

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

Fobs

You might not have an old classic car, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys come with computer chips that need to 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 are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of having your car's key fob changed can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car keys was a hassle, but now it's an actual issue. That's because modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one that has both transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart" key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges and save yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that is the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.