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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

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

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big problem. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key does not have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, which must be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost to have a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your car and store it safely.

It's crucial to know the type of car keys you have before seeking help. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that you can put 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 around $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the car's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be duplicated using special tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith car dealer. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is close to your vehicle or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic car key replacement code which signals your car to begin. This feature is great as it wards off theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

A transponder key is a little bit more than a regular key, but that's only because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but you should always ask your car dealer if they can do it. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with the most competitive price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it's essential to research all 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.

Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your replacement car key fobs.

It is crucial to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice signs that your vehicle has been opened or damaged. It is very difficult to get a new key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. The keys don't have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a certain depth along the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to determine whether it's fake or not. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost while working or running errands.

If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to talk to a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to create these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to create an alternative key that is laser-cut, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the key's metal. This will cut all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be extracted from the VIN, and the key will then be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside of them that can be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. You can then contact an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old classic car but your vehicle probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process, though it's usually recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car replacement keys key was a pain However, now it's a major issue. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank that can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden into a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than standard 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 duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement keys for cars from a company such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that can program your vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you around $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.