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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

Before you lose your key, it is an ideal idea to have a spare made. To make this easier we have put together a guide to the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more advanced in technology and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

An auto locksmith can be the most affordable alternative. They'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key for about $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, which must be programmed properly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or a Cheapest car key replacement dealership service professional.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your car and store it safely.

It is important to determine the type of car keys you have before seeking help. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car keys replacement cost to begin. This feature is beneficial because it stops theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter to turn on your car and take it away.

A transponder key is a little bit more than a regular key but that's only because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer if they can do it. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with a more competitive price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

It is crucial that you do not try to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics won't help you if they see indications that your car has been forced open or altered. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth up the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost while doing errands or working.

If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store won't be able create an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to cut the key's metal. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code will then be found from the VIN and the key will then be cut according to the specifications of your car.

Laser-cut keys are not like traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronics or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, cheapest Car key Replacement as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. That way you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you have access to your car again without having to pay to get it tow back at the dealership.

Fobs

You might not have an old classic car however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it's better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.

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

It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle however, it's now an actual issue. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement car key fob aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program a variety of vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges which could save you up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.