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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

Before you lose your key it is an ideal idea to make a backup. We have put together a guide on how much it costs to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big problem. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's much more expensive to replace lost keys.

The cheapest method of doing this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually capable of copying a standard metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. This type of key doesn't have 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 properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, like the local locksmith or cheap car keys replacement dealer professional in service.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip in modern cars can cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you always have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere safe.

It is important to determine the type of car keys you have before seeking help. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. They're not as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that sends a message to the car's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and it can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.

A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular key however, it's because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they usually have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you an affordable price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's important to research the key options before you purchase your next car. You should be able to figure out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are a bit more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was copied, it will not work in your car.

Whatever type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you particularly if they notice signs that the car has been tampered with or forced to open. It is very difficult to get a new key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to steal or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a specific depth along the face of the key. This makes it very easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of getting locked out if you lose your key while you're at work or doing for errands.

If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to call a locksmith professional with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Most of the time the hardware store you visit won't be able make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith will use an instrument that appears like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted 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 contain any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, so they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive because they require a full rebuild of the key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession in case of the event of. This way, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you can have access to your car key fobs replacement again, without having to pay to get it towed back to the dealership.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start the car without a key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it's best to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your particular car and can ensure that it's done correctly.

The cost for replacement car key of replacing your replacement car keys cost's key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was an inconvenience However, now it's a major issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, however the one that has both transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement car key from a business like Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that can program your vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges and save yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that has the same model, year and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.