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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

Before you lose your key it is recommended to make a backup. We have compiled a list on the price to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big problem. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. However, today's cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace a lost key.

The cheapest way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. This type of key isn't equipped with a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys include transponders or chips that need to be programmed correctly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, like the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of having a mechanical key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles 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 somewhere safe.

There are five distinct types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common however they are available at your local home improvement store for $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that sends an electronic signal to the car'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 key and can only be duplicated using special tools that are available to a locksmith or car dealer. It could cost you $500 or more depending on the car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize microchips inside the key to communicate with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car key fob replacement because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular key however, it's because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer about whether they are able to do it. They are the best choice as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. They are a little more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your car.

Regardless of what type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics won't help you if they see signs that your vehicle has been opened or tampered with. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a particular depth in the middle of the face of the key. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you're not at risk of getting locked out if you misplace your key while you're working or running around.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to create a laser-cut replacement key, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that looks like a standard drill in order to mill the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be found from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they don't contain electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car key. That way, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you, so that you gain access to your vehicle again, without needing to pay to have it tow-back by the dealership.

Fobs

You might not have an old-fashioned car but your vehicle probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.

The cost of having your car's key fob changed can cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a hassle. Now it's a serious problem. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one that comes with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may find that you can program and Replacement car Keys cost cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.