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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never pleasant to lose your car key replacements keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

It is a good idea to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a guide on the price to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big problem. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. However, this kind of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip that is used in modern cars can cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you always 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 which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. They're not as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The next kind of car key is a transponder key that has 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 standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied using specific tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They incorporate a microchip in the key. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have since it helps to prevent theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter to turn your car on and drive away with it.

The cost of a new transponder key is usually slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but only because it has to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally capable of programming the transponder key, however it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it as well. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to give you a more competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next car. You should be able to find out which type of key works with it and Replacement Car Keys Cost if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to gain entry into your vehicle yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will not assist you if they notice signs that your vehicle has been opened or tampered with. It is very difficult to get a new key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to steal or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a particular depth along the face of the key. When looking at the key from the top, it is easy to determine whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you misplace your key while you're working or running for errands.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a professional locksmith with the equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to create an alternative key that is laser-cut, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the key's metal. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN and the key will then be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they don't contain electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced by a new one. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

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

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it's better to have your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are familiar with your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

The cost of getting your car's key fob changed can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your key fob goes missing or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was a pain, but now it's a major issue. That's because modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

These new keys come in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or put into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealer will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that has the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.