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How Much Do replacement car keys cost (Read the Full Post)?

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

Before you lose your key it is recommended to have a spare. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

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

Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They are usually capable of copying a standard metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with chips and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys have transponders, also known as chips, which must be programmed to work properly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.

The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will usually cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you always have a backup key, and that you keep it in a safe place.

There are five different types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however they are available at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and Replacement Car Keys Cost it is only possible to copy it using special tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have since it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will require both the correct key and transmitter to start your car and take it away.

A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key however, it's because it must be programmed. Locksmiths are generally able to program the transponder key, Replacement Car Keys Cost however it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this also. This is because they usually have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to offer you a more competitive price.

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

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder password system. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and many mechanics won't help you if they notice indications that your car has been opened or tampered with. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a specific depth along the face of the key. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to identify whether it's fake or not. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out if you have your key lost while you're working or running errands.

If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call a locksmith professional with the equipment to create these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to create the replacement key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will use an instrument that appears similar to a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code can be extracted from the VIN and the key car replacement will then be cut to match the specifications of your car.

Laser-cut keys are different from a traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced by a new one. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

Have at least one spare car key in your car just in the event of. This way you'll be able call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you can have access to your car again without having to pay to get it towed back by the dealership.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start the car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it's recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. That's not even including the cost of car key replacement of a brand new mechanical backup key you might want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now it's a serious problem. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and effective 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 more difficult for thieves.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one that has both a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" has an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds down into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or tucked inside the pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program various vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your car.