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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.

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

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't 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, automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's much more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with a chip and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed to work properly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer service professional.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip in modern cars can cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you always have a backup key, and keep it in a safe place.

There are five types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before getting help with replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. They're not as common however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder, which has an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and is only possible with specialized tools that are accessible to a locksmith or dealer of cars. This can cost up to $500 or more depending on your car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to communicate with your car. When the key is close to your car or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and take it away.

Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular key however, it's because it must be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this also. This is because they often have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to give you an affordable price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. auto car key replacement are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were copied, it will not work in your car.





Regardless of what type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to break into your own car yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will not assist you if they notice signs that your vehicle has been opened or altered. It is very difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to take or lose than a metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a particular depth on the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to determine if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands.

If you own an uncut laser key, you will need to contact an expert locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit won't be able make you a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith uses an instrument that appears similar to a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according 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 changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a full rebuild of the key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it is generally better to let your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your particular car and can ensure that it's done right.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. Now it's a serious issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you may want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for less than the price a dealership will charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as the original so it can be coded to work with your car.