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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 road. If you lose your keys, it is an ideal idea to have a spare. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace the car key. Mechanical Keys It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge deal. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost. The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with 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, which must be programmed correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional in service. The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip that is used in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe. It's important to identify the kind of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. They're not as common however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10. The next type of car key is the transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be duplicated using special tools that are available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car. Transponder Keys Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is near to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it. A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key however, it's because it must be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program a transponder key, but it is best to ask your car 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 can give you a better rate. Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which type of key will work with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote. Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complicated because they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car. No matter what kind of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and make mechanics reluctant to assist you, especially if they see indications that your car has been tampered with or forced open. It is very difficult to get a new key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert. Laser-Cut Keys A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to take or lose than a metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade – instead there's a groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from above. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands. If you own an uncut laser key, you will need to contact an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to provide you with the replacement key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob. A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN and the key will be cut to match the specifications of your car. Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they do not contain any electronics or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key. Have at least one spare car key in your car just in the event of. Then, you can call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can reenter your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer. Fobs You may not have an old classic car however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it is usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools. The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced can cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen. It used to be that losing your car key was a pain however, it's now a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that convenient and powerful that thieves are able to steal keys. Fortunately, auto car key replacement in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys. The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. The “smart” key has a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace. If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be copied to work with another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program various vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than the price a dealership will charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.