How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost? It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road. It is a good idea to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. To make it easier we've put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost. Mechanical Keys Not too long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it is much more expensive to replace keys lost. The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key at a cost of $50 or less. This type of key doesn't have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine. car key replacement service near me is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to function properly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, like the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional. The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip that is used in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you always have a backup key, and keep it in a safe place. There are five different types of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common however you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10. The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specialized tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are used by vehicles to connect with their car. They use microchips in the keys. 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 is a great feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to start your car and then drive off with it. A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular key however, it's because it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming the transponder key, however it is recommended to ask your 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 they can provide you with a better price. Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires a remote to unlock it. Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle. Regardless of what type of key you've got, it is crucial that you do not attempt to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see indications that your car has been forced open or altered. This can make it very hard to get a replacement, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith. Laser-Cut Keys It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to steal or lose than a key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you misplace your keys while at work or running for errands. If you have an uncut laser key, you will need to contact a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time the hardware store you visit will not be able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs. A locksmith will use a machine that appears like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to 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. Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key. Keep at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your car without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer. Fobs Unless you own an old classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys contain special computer chips which need to be programmed to work 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 have the necessary tools and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done right. The cost of having your car's key fob changed can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key you might need in the event that the fob goes missing or is stolen. It was once the case that losing your car key was a pain However, now it's a real problem. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal the keys. The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key inside the same fob. This smart key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and can fold into the fob in the same way as an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked in a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and could require the assistance of a dealership to replace. If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work with another vehicle, you may want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program many different vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealership will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.
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