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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.

If you lose your keys, it is recommended to make a backup. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing the car replacement key cost key was not a big deal. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced and it is much more costly to replace keys lost.

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

Modern car keys come with transponders or chips that must be programmed properly. This can only be done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.

There are five different types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one 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 vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however, they are available at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder, which has an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is close to your vehicle or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature because it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter to start your car and take it away.

A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key, however, this is because it has to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this also. They are the best choice since they have the most experience in programming these keys and will offer you a better price.

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

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with transponder password systems. These are more complicated because they require special tools 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 duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

Regardless of what 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 could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice signs that your vehicle was opened or tampered with. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to steal or lose than a metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a groove that cuts to a set depth across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while working or running errands.

If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able provide you with the replacement car key fobs key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be extracted from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any electronic components or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.

Have at least one spare car key in your car just in case. This way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you, so that you have access to your car again without having to pay to get it tow-back by the dealership.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it is usually best to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it's a smart 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.

The loss of your car key was once a hassle. It's now a major problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to take them. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one that has both transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" features a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement remote car keys from a business like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that offers programming for many automobiles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges which could save you up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that is the same model, year and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.