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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

It is a good plan to order a spare key before you lose yours. To make it easier we have 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 problem. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace a lost key.

The cheapest way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys include transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.

The cost for car key replacement of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip used in modern cars can cost you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere safe.

It's crucial to know the type of car keys you have before seeking help. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is close to your car, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular key, however, this is because it must be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program the transponder key, however it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it as well. They are the best option since they have the most experience in programming these keys and can offer you a better price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is crucial to conduct your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which type of key works with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to break into your own car yourself. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to help you out particularly if they notice evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or opened. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement key fob for car key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to steal or lose than a key made of metal. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a specific depth on the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands.

If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to 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 appears similar to a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, which means that they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession in case of case of. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start the car without having a key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done correctly.

Getting your car key fob replaced can cost up to $500, based on the type of key you use and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This 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 was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience However, now it's a real problem. That's because modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds down into the fob, like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement car keys near me from a company like Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that offers programming for many vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges which could save you around $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a fob and a key that is the same year, model and model as your original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.