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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.

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

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big problem. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it is much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a basic metal key for around $50 or less. However, this type of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost of having a mechanical key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key and store it safely.

There are five kinds of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed close to your car or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have because it discourages theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but that is because it needs to be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this as well. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to provide you with a more competitive price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out what type of key works with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder-based password system. They are a little more complicated because they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe signs that your vehicle was opened or damaged. This could make it difficult to obtain replacement car key cost parts, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to take or lose than a traditional key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from above. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working.

If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. In most cases the hardware store you visit isn't able to make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these types of keys.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to mill the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be extracted from the VIN, and the key will be cut to meet the specifications of your vehicle.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, so 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 always recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car keys. Then, you can call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can reenter your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow to the dealer.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process but it's generally best to have your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about your specific car and can ensure that it's done correctly.

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

The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. It's now a major problem. That's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances 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 however the most expensive is one that has a transponder and a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" has a spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or tucked inside the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare key fob that is in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket Replacement Remote Car Keys from a firm such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that has the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.