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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good idea to order an extra key before 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 deal. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced, and it's much more expensive to replace lost keys.

The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. This kind of key does not have chip and will not be able unlock doors or start engines.

This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to function properly. This can only be done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key and store it safely.

It's crucial to know the type of car key you own before seeking assistance. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder 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 of car key is a transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that sends an alert 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 can only be copied using specific tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. This can cost up to $500 or more based on your car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to start. This is a great 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 the transmitter to turn it on and Replacement Car Keys Cost drive off with it.

Transponder keys cost a little bit more than a regular key, however, it's because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best option because they have the most expertise in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out what type of key will work with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. These are a bit more complicated because they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they use rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your car.

Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they notice indications that your car has been forced open or tampered with. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain a replacement, so be sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or get stolen than a conventional metal key. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a particular depth along the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to determine whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you happen to misplace your keys while at work or running for errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to provide you with a laser-cut replacement car key key, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN and the key will then be cut to meet the specifications of your car.

Laser-cut keys are different from a regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronics or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession just in case of. So you'll be able call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you, so that you'll have access to your car without needing to pay to have it tow back at the dealership.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, the chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your car without a key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is generally better to let your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about your particular car and can ensure that it's done right.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.

Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves can take them. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

These new keys come in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that has an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealership would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a key and fob that has the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.