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It's never pleasant to lose your car key replacements near me keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

It is a good plan to buy an extra key before you lose yours. To make it easier we've put together a guide to the cost of replacement car key costs car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big deal. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, today's cars are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest car key replacement option. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with chips and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to work correctly. This can only by done by a professional who knows what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you always have a backup key, and that you keep it in a safe place.

It's important to identify the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The second type of car key is a transponder key that has an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical one and is only possible with specialized tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter to start your car and then drive off with it.

The cost of a new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a conventional key, but only because it has to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder with many locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys, and they can offer you a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. These are more complicated because they require a special key tool to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

It is crucial that you don't attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to assist you particularly if they notice indications that your vehicle has been damaged or forced open. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile replacement car keys auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to lose or steal than a key made of metal. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from the top. They are easy to identify and will not get locked out if you have your key lost while you're working or running errands.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store will not be able to make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these types of keys.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the key's metal. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then extracted from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, which means they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car key. That way, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you, so that you have access to your car again without needing to pay to have it tow-back by the dealership.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your car without a key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it's recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in your particular car, which can ensure it's done correctly.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced can cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.

The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves are able to steal them. The advances in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves.

These new keys come in various sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. The "smart" key features an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or put into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in another vehicle, you may want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who offers programming for various vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge and save yourself as much as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a key and fob that is the same model, year and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.