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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.

It is a good idea to buy an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge problem. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it is much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. 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, also known as chips, that need to be programmed correctly. This can only by done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer service professional.

The cost of having an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chips in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you have a backup key, and Replacement Car Keys Cost that you keep it somewhere safe.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however, you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with specific tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith car dealer. This can cost up to $500 or more depending on your car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature to have since it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is usually higher than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it must be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is best to ask your car dealership if they can do so as well. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to offer you an affordable price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it is important to research the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out which kind of key is compatible with it, and whether or not it requires a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. These are more complicated because they require special tools to program them. However they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption that changes the password each 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, it is crucial to never attempt to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will not assist you if they notice indications that your car has been opened or tampered with. This can make it very hard to get a replacement, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to take or lose than a traditional key. The keys don't have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a specific depth along the face of the key. This makes it easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while working or doing errands.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact an expert locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to make you 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 employ an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside that can be replaced, which means that they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car key. So you'll be able contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you'll gain access to your vehicle again without needing to pay to have it tow-back at the dealership.

Fobs

You may not have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it's 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 key replacement near me key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

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

These new keys come in various dimensions and Replacement Car Keys Cost shapes however the most expensive one is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges and save yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that has the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.