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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good plan to buy a spare key before you lose yours. We have put together a guide on the price to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

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

Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key isn't equipped with a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys include transponders or chips that must be programmed to work properly. This can only be done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip that is used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and keep it safe.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before seeking help. 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. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied using specific tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. It could cost you $500 or more based on your car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This feature is great because it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and take off with it.

Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular one, however, it's because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but you should always ask your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best option because they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and can give you a better rate.

A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft systems in place. This is why it's important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key works with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle.

It is important to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you in the event of evidence that the car has been tampered with or forced to open. This could make it difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile car key replacement auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to steal or lose than a metal key. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a particular depth on the key's face. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to determine whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you can avoid being locked out in the event that you misplace your key while you're at work or doing errands.

If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to call an expert locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able make you a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved 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 have any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key available in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. So, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you, so that you have access to your car without having to pay to have it towed back to the dealership.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start the car without a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.

Getting your car keys lost replacement key fob changed can cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.

Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys come in different sizes and shapes however the most expensive one is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key inside the same fob. The "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which can fold into the fob in the same way as an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost key replacement car or put in a pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare fob that can be used in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement key fobs for cars from a business like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that can program your automobiles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than the price a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that has the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.