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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.

When you lose your key It is a good idea to make a backup. We have compiled a guide on the price to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are 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 are usually capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This kind of key does not have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that must be programmed to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, such as the local locksmith or a car dealership service professional.

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

There are five distinct kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The second 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. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and is only possible with special tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with microchips in the keys. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have since it discourages theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular key, however, this is because it must be programmed. Locksmiths are generally capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to ask your car dealership whether they are able to program it also. They are the best option as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and can offer you a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next car. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder password system. These are a bit more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they use rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your car.

Whatever type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out particularly if they notice evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or opened. This can make it very difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to lose or steal than a metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from above. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're less likely to risk getting locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while at work or doing errands.

If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store isn't able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.

A locksmith uses a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, which means they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

Have at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case. That way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you, so that you'll have access to your car again, without having to pay to have it tow-back at the dealership.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that the fob goes missing or is stolen.

The loss of your car key used to be an inconvenience. It's now a major issue. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, however the one that comes with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds up into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or replacement car Keys cost hidden in a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement key fobs for cars aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program various vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealership will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a fob and a key that's the same year, model and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.