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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

When you lose your key it is an ideal idea to have a spare. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

Employing an auto car key replacement near me locksmith is the most affordable option. They can usually copy a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key doesn't have a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, which must be programmed to work properly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively low however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.

It is important to determine the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The second type of car key is a transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specific tools, which are only available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key that communicates with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is great because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder keys is typically a little more expensive than a traditional key, but only because it must be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program a transponder key, but it is best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it also. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to give you the most competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next car. You will be able to figure out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complex 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 keys were cloned it would not work in your car.

Whatever type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to break into your own car yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and make mechanics reluctant to assist you particularly if they notice indications that your vehicle has been altered or opened. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to take or lose than a key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to determine whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you misplace your keys while working or doing for errands.

If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to call an expert locksmith with the equipment to make these types of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store isn't able to make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these types of key fobs.

Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to mill the key's metal. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code can be retrieved from the VIN and the key will then be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.

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

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car key. Then, you can call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can reenter your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.

Fobs

You might not have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys contain special electronic chips that need to be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. There are locksmiths who can perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's better to have your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are knowledgeable about your particular car and can ensure that it's done right.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced can cost up to $500, based on the kind of key you use and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your fob is lost car keys replacement cost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a pain, but now it's an actual issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" has 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 simple remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you may think about purchasing a replacement car keys with chips aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealership will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original so it can be coded to work with your car.