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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

If you lose your keys it is a good idea to have a spare made. To make this more convenient we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost (explanation).

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could just buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it is much more costly to replace lost keys.

The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith near me car key replacement. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key doesn't have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional.

The cost to have an electronic key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and store it safely.

It's crucial to know the kind of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and begin the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and is only possible with specific tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer in the car keys replacement cost. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and drive away with it.

The cost of a new transponder key is usually higher than a traditional key, but that is because it must be programmed as well. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming a transponder key, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so also. This is because they usually have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to provide you with an affordable price.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which type of key works with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are a bit more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that if your key was copied, it will not work in your car.

No matter what kind of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe signs that your vehicle has been forced open or tampered with. This will make it extremely hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to take or lose than a traditional key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a certain depth along the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you misplace your key while you're working or doing errands.

If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment to make these types of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store isn't able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools required to cut and program these kinds of keys.

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

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not have any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. 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 without having to pay to have it tow-back to the dealership.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start your car without a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's better to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.

The loss of your car key replacement key was once a source of frustration. It's now a major problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves are now able to steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. 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 the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for various vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to the price a dealership would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.