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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.

When you lose your key, it is recommended to have a spare. To make this more convenient we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big problem. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key does not have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed in order to function properly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere secure.

There are five distinct kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however, they are available at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder key with an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be duplicated using special tools that are available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the make and model.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect with their car. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature to have since 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 off and drive off with it.

A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key however, Replacement car key this is because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer if they can do it. They are the best choice since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys replacement for cars and will offer you a better price.

Many automakers have their own distinct anti-theft systems in place. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key works with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder-based password system. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your car.

It is crucial that you do not try to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out particularly if they notice evidence that the vehicle has been altered or forced open. This can make it very hard to get a Replacement car key, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to take or lose than a key made of metal. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a specific depth on the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you can avoid being locked out in the event that you misplace your keys while at work or running around.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to create these kinds of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store isn't able to make an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of keys.

A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to cut the key's metal. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, so they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.

Keep a spare car key in your car just in the event of. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed by the dealer.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle, but your car probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can perform this reprogramming, however it's recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the 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 hassle. Now, it's a huge issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves can take them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. The "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put in a pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges, saving yourself as much as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that's the same model, year and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.