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How Much Do Replacement car key Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good plan to order an extra key before you lose yours. To make it easier, we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big deal. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key for about $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, which must be programmed to work properly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer service professional.

The cost of a replacement car key of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you have a backup key and that you keep it in a safe place.

There are five distinct types of car keys available, so it's important to know which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however, they are available at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They incorporate microchips in the keys. 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 feature is great because it stops theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

A transponder key is a little bit more than a regular key, however, this is because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always ask your dealer about whether they can do it. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you the most competitive price.

Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle.

Regardless of what type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to gain entry into your car yourself. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to help, especially if they see indications that your vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. It will be very difficult to obtain a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle equipped with a laser cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. These keys do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a specific depth on the face of the key. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk getting locked out if you happen to misplace your key while you're working or running around.

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

A locksmith uses a machine that looks very like a standard drill to cut the key's metal, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means that they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the full rebuild of the key.

Have at least one spare car key in your car just in case of. That way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you, so that you can gain access to your vehicle without having to pay to have it towed back by the dealership.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start the car without having a key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming on your behalf, though it's usually better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves are able to take them. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in various 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 up into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you may want to consider ordering a replacement car key aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program various vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges which could save you around $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.