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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

When you lose your key, it is a good idea to have a spare. To make it easier, we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

An auto locksmith can be the most affordable alternative. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key doesn't have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, that must be programmed to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is fairly low, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.

There are five types of car keys available, so it's important to know which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with specific tools that are only accessible to a locksmith dealer of cars. It could cost you $500 or more depending on the car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car key fob replacement to start. This is an excellent feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car key replacements since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it off and take off with it.

A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular key, however, this is because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they are able to do it. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with a more competitive price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is essential to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. They are a little more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are also more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see signs that your vehicle has been forced open or tampered with. It is very difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's a lot harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a specific depth on the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while doing errands or working.

If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to provide you with the replacement key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the metal of the key. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code can be extracted from the VIN, and the key will be cut to meet the specifications of your car.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession just in case. You can then contact an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow to the dealer.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your vehicle without the need for a key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it's best to let your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was a hassle However, now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal keys. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key in the same fob. The "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like a 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 may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work in another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for Replacement car keys cost a variety of vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealer will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that has the same year, model and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.