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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 roads.

It is a good idea to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make this more convenient we have created a guide on how much replacement remote car keys car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big problem. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.

The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. This kind of key doesn't have chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to work properly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.

The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and store it safely.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. They're not as common however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This type 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 dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They use a microchip in the key. When the key is close to your vehicle, or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This feature is beneficial because it stops theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter to turn on your car and then drive off with it.

A transponder key is slightly more than a regular one, however, it's because it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program the transponder key, however it is best to ask your car dealership whether they are able to program it as well. They are the best choice as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. However, they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

It is essential that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and could make mechanics reluctant to assist you particularly if they notice signs that the car has been tampered with or forced open. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're not at risk of getting locked out if you misplace your key while you're working or running around.

If you own a laser-cut key, then you'll need to talk to an expert locksmith with the equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to create the replacement car keys near me key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code can be extracted from the VIN and the key will be cut to meet the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they don't contain electronics or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a full rebuild of the key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car key. You can then contact an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

You might not have an old classic car however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your particular car, which can ensure it's done right.

Getting your car key replacement key fob changed can cost up to $500, depending on the kind of key you use and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car key was once a hassle. Now it's a serious problem. That's because modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one that has both a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you may think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for many different vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealer will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that's the same year, model and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.