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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 get back on the roads. When you lose your key It is recommended to have a spare made. We have compiled a guide on the price to replace keys for cars. Mechanical Keys It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced, and it is much more costly to replace keys that have been lost. The cheapest method of doing this is to employ an auto locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This kind of key does not have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines. This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional. The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place. There are five kinds of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10. The next type is a transponder car key. remote car key replacement is equipped with an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and can only be copied using specific tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. It could cost you $500 or more depending on the model and make. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect with their car. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have as it discourages theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and take off with it. The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically higher than a traditional key, but that is because it has to be programmed as well. Locksmiths are generally competent to program a transponder key, but it is always best to ask your dealership if they can do so as well. They are the best choice as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and 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 prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which type of key it is compatible with and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it. Certain newer vehicles have a transponder password system. They are a little more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that if your key was cloned it would not work in your car. It is important that you do not try to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice indications that your car has been forced open or altered. This can make it very hard to get an exchange, so make sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith. Laser-Cut Keys If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade – instead there's a groove that cuts to a set depth up the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to identify if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you lose your key while you're working or running around. If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob. A locksmith will use a machine that looks very like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will then be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle. Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside that can be replaced, which means they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key. It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car key. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can reenter your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow to the dealer. Fobs You might not have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can perform this reprogramming, however it is generally best to have your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done right. The cost of having your car's key fob changed can cost as high as $500, based on the kind of key you use and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen. The loss of your car key was once a hassle. Now it's a serious issue. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves. The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. The “smart” key comes with a spring-loaded shank which can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership. If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you may think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.