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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

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 keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big issue. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with a chip and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys have transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work properly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance a local locksmith or even a car dealership service professional.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is fairly low, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you always have a backup key and that you keep it in a safe place.

It's important to identify the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The next type of car key is a transponder key with an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and replacement car keys cost can only be done with special tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, Replacement Car Keys Cost based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car key replacement online. They incorporate a microchip in the key. When the key is put into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have as it discourages theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.

A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular one, however, it's because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best choice because they have the most experience in programming these keys and can provide you with a better price.

Many automakers have their own distinct anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

It is essential that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to help particularly if they notice signs that the vehicle has been altered or forced to open. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to steal or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from above. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you misplace your key while you're at work or running errands.

If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call a locksmith professional with the equipment to make these types of replacements. In most cases your local hardware store isn't able to make an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the metal of the key. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronic components or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced with a new one. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.

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

Fobs

You might not have an old classic car however, your car likely uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it is generally best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might want to have in case your key fob goes missing or stolen.

The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. Now it's a serious issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that convenient and powerful that thieves can take keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes however the most expensive one is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that works in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges which could save you up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your car.