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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

When you lose your key it is an ideal idea to have a spare. To make this more convenient, we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big problem. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. However, today's cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace a lost key.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to get an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key doesn't have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to work properly. This is only done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chip in modern cars will typically cost for car key replacement more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.

There are five distinct kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The next type of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and Replacement Car Keys can only be done with specific tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed close to your car, or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a great feature because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but that is because it has to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally able to program the transponder key, however it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it also. This is because they usually have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to provide you with an affordable price.

Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. It is crucial to conduct your research before purchasing your next car. You should be able to figure out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are more complicated because they require a special key tool to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was copied, it will not work in your car.

It is crucial that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and could make mechanics reluctant to help you out in the event of signs that the car has been tampered with or forced to open. It will be very difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from above. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store isn't able to create a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to mill the key's metal. This will reduce all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will then 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 have electronic components or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced by the new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you happen to lose your car key. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and replacement car keys programmed so that you can be back in your car without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

You might not own an old classic vehicle, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start the vehicle without a traditional key. The keys contain electronic chips that need to be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can perform this reprogramming, however it is generally better to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about your particular car and can ensure that it's done correctly.

Getting your car key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key that you may need in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge issue. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, like the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you may think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for many different vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges which could save you as much as $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.