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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 get back on the roads.

Before you lose your key it is an ideal idea to make a backup. To make this more convenient we've created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big problem. You could just purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest option. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key for around $50 or less. However, this kind of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you have a backup key and keep it in a safe place.

There are five different types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start 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 next type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with specialized tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on your car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize microchips inside the key that communicates with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

The cost of a new transponder keys is typically higher than a traditional key, but this is due to the fact that it must be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this as well. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with the most competitive price.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that even if your key is copied, it will not work with your car.

It is crucial that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics won't help you if they observe signs that your car was opened or tampered with. This could make it difficult to obtain an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to take or lose than a key made of metal. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a particular depth along the face of the key. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you happen to misplace your key while you're working or doing errands.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that looks like a standard drill in order to mill the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not have any electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case of. This way you'll be able call the locksmith and have it cut and programmed for you, so that you'll have access to your car again, without needing to pay to have it tow back by the dealership.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start your car without having a key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it is generally 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 changed can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was an inconvenience however, it's now a real problem. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves.

The new keys come in various dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist that can program your vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealer would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure  car fob key replacement  purchase a key and fob that's the same year, model and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.