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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

It is a good idea to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make this more convenient we've created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's much more expensive to replace keys lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This type of key isn't equipped with a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and keep it safe.

It is important to determine the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned 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 second type of car key is the transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specific tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. It could cost you $500 or more based on the model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with microchips in the keys. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter to start your car and drive away with it.

A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key, however, this is because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer if they can do it. This is because they often have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to offer you an affordable price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems in place. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key will work with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they use 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 car.

Regardless of what type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and could make mechanics reluctant to assist you in the event of signs that the vehicle has been altered or forced open. This can make it very hard to get an exchange, so make sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a specific depth on the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're less likely to risk getting locked out if you happen to misplace your key while you're at work or running for errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit won't be able create a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these types of key fobs.

A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like a standard drill in order to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be found from the VIN and the key will then be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, so they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

Keep a spare car key in your car just in case of. That way, you'll be able to call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you, so that you'll gain access to your vehicle again without having to pay to get it towed back by the dealership.

Fobs

You might not have an old-fashioned car however, your car likely uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you however it's best to have your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are familiar with your specific car and can ensure that it's done right.

The cost of replacement car keys of replacing your car key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of replacement car keys of an electronic backup key that you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was a hassle However, now it's a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves are able to take them. The advancements in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you might think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for various vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealer would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.