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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

It is a good plan to order an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the price to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace lost keys.

Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They can usually copy keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with chips and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to work correctly. This is only 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 inexpensive, however the programming chip in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you have a backup key, and keep it somewhere secure.

There are five types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before getting help with 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. They're not as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and is only possible with specific tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer in the car. It could cost you $500 or more, car key cover replacement depending on the car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to communicate with your car. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This is a great feature because it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and take it away.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically higher than a standard key, but that is because it needs to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and will give you a better rate.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key works with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.

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

Whatever type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe indications that your car was opened or tampered with. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or get stolen than a conventional metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a groove which cuts to a specific depth across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working.

If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able create the replacement key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will use an apparatus that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface to 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 are not like normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced by the new model. Laser-cut keys are expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.

Have at least one spare car key in your car just in the event of. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start your car without having a key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you however it's better to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about your specific car, which can ensure it's done correctly.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost for car key replacement as high as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case your fob gets lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a hassle. Now, it's a huge issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves are able to take them. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys come in a variety of sizes and shapes however the most expensive is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" features a spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have 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 with chips from a company like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car Key cover replacement.