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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good idea to buy an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a basic metal key at a cost of $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with 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 to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows 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 however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will usually cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.

There are five types of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The second type of car key is a transponder key with an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with specific tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost for replacement car keys cost this can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is placed close to your car or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature because it stops theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and take off with it.

A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key however, this is because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer if they can do it. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to give you the most competitive price.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is essential to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder. They are a little more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.

It is important that you don't attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe signs that your car has been opened or damaged. This could make it hard to get replacement car keys near me parts, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to take or lose than a traditional key. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a specific depth in the middle of the face of the key. This makes it easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while working or running errands.

If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to talk to a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will use an apparatus that resembles a standard drill in order to cut the metal of the key. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key.

It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you happen to lose your car key. You can then call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your car without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

You may not own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process however it's best to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.

Getting your car key fob replaced could cost up to $500, based on the type of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car key used to be an inconvenience. It's now a major issue. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which can fold into the fob in the same way as the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have a spare key fob that works in your car and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges, saving yourself as much as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that has the same model, year and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.