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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

If you lose your keys, it is a good idea to have a spare. To make it easier we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge deal. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace a lost key.

The cheapest way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key doesn't have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert.

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 recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.

It is important to determine the type of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, older 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 they are available at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with microchips in the keys. When the key is close to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have since it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

The cost of a new transponder key is usually slightly more expensive than a standard key, but this is due to the fact that it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so as well. They are the best option because they have the most expertise in programming these keys and can give you a better rate.

Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out what type of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you particularly if they notice signs that the car has been tampered with or forced open. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a certain depth on the face of the key. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to tell if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you misplace your keys while at work or doing around.

If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In most cases the hardware store you visit won't be able make an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

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

Laser-cut keys are different from a normal transponder keys because they do not have electronic chips or electronics that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you happen to lose your car key. This way you'll be able call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you, so that you can have access to your car without having to pay to have it tow-back by the dealership.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it's better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of having your car key replacements near me's key fob changed can cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your fob gets lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can take keys. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

These new keys come in various shapes and sizes, but the most expensive is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement remote car keys from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who offers programming for various vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealership will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.