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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 return to the road.

Before you lose your key, it is a good idea to make a backup. We have compiled a guide on the cost to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge deal. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as a local locksmith or a cheap car key replacement dealer service professional.

The cost of having a mechanical key copied is fairly low however programming the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you have a backup key and keep it in a safe place.

It's crucial to know the kind of car key you own before seeking assistance. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. These aren't common anymore however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be duplicated using specialized tools that are available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost of replacement car key for this can be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to connect with their car. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is close to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a great feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a traditional key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program the transponder key, however it is best to ask your dealership if they can do so as well. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to offer you the most competitive price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. 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 a wireless remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder-based password system. These are a bit more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car.

It is essential that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to assist you particularly if they notice signs that the vehicle has been damaged or opened. It is very difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a specific depth on the face of the key. When looking at the key from above it's easy to tell if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize and will not get locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands.

If you have a laser-cut key, then you'll need to call a locksmith professional with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to create the replacement car keys cost key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith car key replacement cost uses a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they do not have electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.

It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car keys. So, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you, so that you gain access to your vehicle without needing to pay to have it tow-back at the dealership.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it is generally best to let your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done correctly.

Getting your car key fob replaced can cost up to $500, based on the kind of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. That's not even including the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.

The loss of your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now it's a serious issue. That's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" has an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. 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 saving up to $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a key and fob that is the same model, year and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.