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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good idea to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the price to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge deal. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest method of doing 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 type of key doesn't have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, such as a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional.

The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip that is used in modern cars can cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you always have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere secure.

There are five types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to 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 aren't common anymore however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key to communicate with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have as it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular one, however, this is because it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program the transponder key, however it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it as well. They are the best option because they have the most expertise in programming these keys and will offer you a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is essential to conduct your research before purchasing your next car. You will be able to figure out what type of key will work with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

It is essential to not attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and make mechanics reluctant to help you out particularly if they notice evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or forced open. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement car keys key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to steal or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a particular depth along the key's face. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to identify whether it's fake or not. They are easy to spot and will not get locked out if your key is lost while doing errands or working.

If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to call a professional locksmith with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In most cases the hardware store you visit will not be able to make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these types of keys.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles a standard drill in order to cut the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique code of the key is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronics or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced by a new one. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

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

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start the car without having a key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you but it's generally recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.

Getting your car key fob changed can cost up to $500, based on the type of key you drive and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle, but now it's a major issue. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. The "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and could require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealer would charge, replacement car Keys cost saving up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your car.