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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.

If you lose your keys it is recommended to have a spare made. We have put together a guide on how much it costs to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

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

The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They'll usually be capable of copying a basic metal key for around $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to work properly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer service professional.

The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you always have a backup key, and keep it in a safe place.

There are five distinct types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A more traditional, older car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. These aren't common anymore however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be done with specific tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith dealer of cars. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is near to your car replacement keys or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to start. This feature is great because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

The cost of a replacement car key of a new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed as well. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program the transponder key, however it is best to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this also. They are the best choice because they have the most experience in programming these keys and can offer you a better price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to find out which type of key works with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your car.

Whatever type of key you've got, it is crucial that you do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out in the event of evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. This will make it extremely hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's a lot harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a specific depth on the face of the key. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're not at risk of being locked out if you misplace your key while you're working or doing errands.

If you own an uncut laser key, you will need to contact an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store isn't able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these types of key fobs.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the key's metal. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any electronics 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 extremely expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.

Have at least one spare car key in your possession just in case of. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

If you do not own a 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. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming but it is usually recommended to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was a pain However, now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has the transponder and mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" has an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

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