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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

If you lose your keys, it is a good idea to have a spare made. To make it easier we've created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big issue. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace a lost key.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This type of key does not have chip and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost of having an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.

There are five distinct types of car keys, so it's crucial to know the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specialized tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They are equipped with microchips in the keys. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.

Transponder keys cost a little bit more than a regular key, however, this is because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to provide you with the most competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are a little more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they use rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you never try to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will not assist you if they see signs that your vehicle has been forced open or tampered with. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain a replacement, so be certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to take or lose than a traditional key. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth up the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to identify whether it's fake or not. 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 misplace your keys while working or running for errands.

If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to talk to a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able make you a laser-cut replacement key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will use a machine that looks very like a regular drill to cut the key's metal, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to meet the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are different from a regular transponder key because they do not have electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced with a new one. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

Have at least one spare car key in your car just in case. You can then contact an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can reenter your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

You may not own an old classic vehicle, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you but it's generally best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.

The cost of getting your car's key fob changed can cost up to $500, replacement car keys depending on the type of key you drive and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves are able to take them. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves.

The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes however the most expensive is one that has the transponder and mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost car keys replacement or tucked in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that can program your vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealer will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that has the same year, model and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.