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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

It is a good plan to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have put together a guide on the cost to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

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

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

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

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

It's important to identify the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. 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, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This is a great feature to have since it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to start your car and drive away with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is usually higher than a traditional key, but that is because it must be programmed as well. 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 option as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which type of key it is compatible with and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder system. They are a little more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure because they employ rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your car.

Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to break into your own car yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics won't help you if they notice signs that your vehicle has been forced open or altered. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to lose or steal than a metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you lose your keys while at work or running around.

If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to talk to a professional locksmith with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able create the replacement remote car keys key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will use an instrument that appears like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code can be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your car.

Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they don't contain electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you happen to lose your car key. That way you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you have access to your car again without having to pay to have it tow-back to the dealership.

Fobs

You may not own an old classic vehicle, replacement car keys cost but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys come with computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's better to have your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about your specific car, which can ensure it's done right.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a hassle. Now it's a serious issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern cars have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves are able to steal keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in various shapes and sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that offers programming for many automobiles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges and save yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that's the same model, year and make as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.