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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

If you lose your keys, it is a good idea to make a backup. To make it easier, we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could simply buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it is much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to employ an auto locksmith. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.

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

It's important to identify the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the car's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and can only be copied with specialized 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 make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have as it discourages theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief requires both the right key and transmitter in order to start your car and drive away with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a traditional key, but this is due to the fact that it has to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your car dealer if they can do it. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to give you a more competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is essential to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key works with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. They are a little more complex as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your car.

It is essential to not attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the kind of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they notice signs that your vehicle has been opened or damaged. It is very difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to take or lose than a key made of metal. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a specific depth along the key's face. When looking at the key from the top, it is easy to tell whether it's fake or not. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while doing errands or working.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit isn't able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to match your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they don't contain electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced with a new one. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in case. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed by the dealer.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old-fashioned car but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it is generally best to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may need in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

Losing your car key was once a hassle. It's now a major issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement car key aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program various vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealer will charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your car.