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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.

When you lose your key it is an ideal idea to make a backup. We have compiled a guide on the price to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big issue. You could buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key for around $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't have chips and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, like a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional.

The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you have a backup key, and that you keep it in a safe place.

It's crucial to know the kind of car key you own before seeking assistance. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common however, they are available at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The next type of car key is the transponder, which has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to communicate with your car. When the key is placed in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to start. This is a great feature to have 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 on before they could drive off with it.

The cost of a brand new car key replacement transponder key is usually slightly more expensive than a standard key, but only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer if they can do it. They are the best choice as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and can offer you a better price.

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

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder-based password system. These are more complicated because they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were copied, it will not work in your car.

It is essential that you don't attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe signs that your car has been forced open or damaged. This could make it hard to get an exchange, so make sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. These keys have no notches 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 easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you can avoid being locked out if you happen to misplace your key while you're at work or running errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store will not be able to make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these types of keys.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that resembles 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 can be retrieved from the VIN and the key will then be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys are different from a normal transponder keys because they do not have electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car key. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

You might not have an old-fashioned car however, your car key fobs replacement likely uses one of the newest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is generally better to have your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

Getting your car key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you use and if it's remote-controlled or smart. That's not even including the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you may need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle however, it's now a major issue. That's because modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart" key features an elongated shank that is spring loaded and Replacement Car Keys Cost can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work with another vehicle, you might think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for various vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself as much as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a key and fob that's the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.