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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

When you lose your key, it is recommended to have a spare made. To make it easier, we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost near me car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's much more expensive to replace lost keys.

An auto locksmith can be the most affordable option. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with a chip and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys have transponders or chips which must be programmed properly. This can only be done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or a car dealership service professional.

The cost to have a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.

It's important to identify the type of car key you own before seeking assistance. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These aren't common anymore however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They incorporate a microchip in the key. 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 great because it stops theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is usually higher than a conventional key, but only because it must be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder with many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. This is because they usually have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to provide you with an affordable price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key will work with it, and Replacement Car Keys whether or not it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder password system. These are more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your car.

Whatever 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 could cause alarms to insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out, especially if they see evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or forced open. This can make it very difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to determine whether it's fake or not. They are easy to identify and will not get locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working.

If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit will not be able to create 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 a machine that looks very like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN and the key will then be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not have any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession in case of the event of. So you'll be able call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you so that you have access to your car without having to pay to get it tow-back at the dealership.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your car without a key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can assist you in this process, though it's usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and Replacement Car Keys possess all the necessary tools.

Getting your car key fob replaced could cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you use and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was a pain however, it's now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal keys. The advances in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has the transponder and mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, like the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare key fob that is in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist that can program your automobiles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges, saving yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that has the same model, year and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.