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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost? Losing keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service. When you lose your key, it is recommended to have a spare. We have put together a guide on how much it costs to replace a car key. Mechanical Keys It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more expensive to replace a lost key. replacement car keys price can be the most affordable option. They'll usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. This kind of key does not have chip and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine. This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service. The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip that is used in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you have a backup key, and that you keep it in a safe place. There are five distinct kinds of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. They're not as common however, you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10. The next type of car key is a transponder key with 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 key and can only be done with specialized tools, which are only available to a locksmith or car dealer. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on the car's make and model. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is placed close to your car or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a great feature because it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and then drive off with it. The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but only because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best option since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and will offer you a better price. A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it. Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are a little more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your vehicle. Whatever type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to open the door of your car yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to help you out particularly if they notice signs that the car has been tampered with or opened. It is very difficult to get a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert. Laser-Cut Keys If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. These keys have no notches 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 a genuine and fake key when looking at it from the top. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while you're doing errands or working. If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to create the replacement key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob. A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be extracted from the VIN, and the key will then be cut according to your vehicle's specifications. Laser-cut keys are different from a normal transponder keys because they do not have electronic chips or electronics that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a full rebuild of the key. It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car keys. You can then contact a 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 If you do not own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start your car without a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually better to have your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right. The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen. The loss of your car keys was once a hassle. Now, it's a huge issue. That's because modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal keys. The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. 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 fobs and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace. If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that's the same model, year and model as your original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.