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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good plan to purchase a spare key before you lose yours. To make it easier we have created a list of the cost of replacement car key car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big problem. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

An auto locksmith can be the most affordable option. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't have chips and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere safe.

It's crucial to know the kind of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A more traditional, older car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular however, you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. It could cost you $500 or more depending on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to begin. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is usually slightly more expensive than a standard key, but only because it has to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your car dealer if they can do it. They are the best option since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and can provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to find out what type of key will work with it and if it requires a remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder password system. These are a bit more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is copied, it will not work with your car.

It is crucial that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to help, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to take or lose than a traditional 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. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to determine whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you misplace your keys while working or running around.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call a professional locksmith who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith uses a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.

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

Keep at least one spare car key in your possession in case of the event of. Then, you can call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old classic car, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to open and replacement car keys cost start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally better to have your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your specific car, which can ensure it's done right.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you drive and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was a hassle however, it's now an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves can take keys. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key in the same fob. The "smart" key features an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

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 purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist that can program your vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealership will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, replacement car keys cost model and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your car.