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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

If you lose your keys it is recommended to make a backup. We have compiled a guide on the price to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

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

Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key does not have chip and will not be able unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or a car keys replacement cost dealership service professional.

The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively low however programming the chip in modern cars will usually cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.

It is important to determine the kind of car key you own before seeking assistance. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. They're not as common however, you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the car's computers to open the doors and start 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 of cars. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on your car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They use a microchip in the key. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have because it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter to start your car replacement keys and then drive off with it.

A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular key however, it's because it needs to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally able to program the transponder key, however it is recommended to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so also. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to give you a more competitive price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. They are a little more complicated because they require a special key tool to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car.

It is essential that you don't attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the kind of key. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and could make mechanics reluctant to assist you in the event of evidence that the car has been tampered with or forced open. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a traditional metal key. These keys do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a specific depth in the middle of the face of the key. This makes it easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you can avoid being locked out if you lose your key while you're at work or doing for errands.

If you own a laser-cut key, then you'll need to call a professional locksmith with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to create an alternative key that is laser-cut, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will use an instrument that appears like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys are not like traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your cheap car keys replacement key. That way you'll be able contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle again without having to pay to get it tow back to the dealership.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start the car without a key. These keys contain special computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process however it's better to have your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are well-versed in your particular car and can ensure that it's done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost for car key replacement of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.

Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. It's now a major problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves are able to take keys. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves.

The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes, but the one with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" has an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who offers programming for many different vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than the price a dealership will charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a fob and a key that's the same year, model and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.