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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost? The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads. Before you lose your key, it is recommended to have a spare. To make this more convenient we have created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost. Mechanical Keys Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace a lost key. An auto locksmith can be the cheapest alternative. They can usually copy a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine. Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert. The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip that is used in modern cars can cost you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you always have a backup key and that you 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 seeking help to replace it. A standard, old-fashioned 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 to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10. The next type of car key is the transponder key that has an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be duplicated using special tools that are available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. 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 feature is beneficial because it stops theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter to start your car and take it away. The cost of a new transponder key is typically higher than a standard key, but that is because it needs to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they are able to do it. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you a more competitive price. A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out which kind of key will work with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it. Some newer vehicles come with a transponder-based password system. These are a bit more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your car. It is important that you don't attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they observe indications that your car was opened or damaged. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert. Laser-Cut Keys You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to take or lose than a metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge 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 very easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from above. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working. If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit will not be able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these types of key fobs. A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will remove 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 then cut to your vehicle's specifications. Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronics or chips which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced by the new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key. It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key available in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. You can then contact an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be tow back to the dealer. Fobs There's a chance that you don't have an old-fashioned car however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you however it's recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about your specific car, which can ensure it's done correctly. The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, depending 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 new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen. The loss of your car keys was once a hassle. It's now a major issue. That's because modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys. automotive key replacement come in a variety of dimensions and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key in the same fob. The “smart” key features a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace. If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges which could save you around $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that is the same year, model and model as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.