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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good idea to purchase a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make this easier we've created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

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

The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key does not have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys have transponders or chips that must be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost of having a mechanical key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you always have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere safe.

It's crucial to know the kind of car key you have before seeking help. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. These aren't common anymore however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the computer in the vehicle to open 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 specialized tools that are accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. It could cost you $500 or more based on your car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular key, but that's only because it has to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program a transponder key, but it is best to ask your car dealership whether they are able to program it also. This is because they usually have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to offer you a more competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

Regardless of what type of key you have, it is crucial that you do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe signs that your car was opened or damaged. It is very difficult to get a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from the top, it is easy to tell whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you misplace your key while you're at work or doing for errands.

If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to call a locksmith professional with the equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to create an alternative key that is laser-cut, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are different from a normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced by the new model. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your possession just in case of. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.

Fobs

You may not have an old classic car but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process but it's generally recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done correctly.

Getting your car key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, based on the type of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may want in case your fob gets lost or stolen.

The loss of your car key replacement online keys was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves are able to take them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal them.

The new keys come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key replacements for cars inside the same fob. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which folds into the fob like a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put into a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work with another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement car key cost aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who offers programming for many different vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at less than the price a dealership will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that has the same model, year and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.