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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost? Losing your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads. If you lose your keys it is recommended to have a spare made. We have put together a guide on the cost to replace keys for cars. Mechanical Keys Not too long ago, losing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it is much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost. The most affordable method to accomplish this is to get an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines. This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional in service. The cost to have a mechanical key copied is relatively low, but the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you always have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere secure. It is important to determine the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10. The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the car's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with specialized tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your car. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is near to your car or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a great feature because it deters 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 drive off with it. Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular one, however, it's because it must be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program a transponder key, but it is recommended to ask your car dealership if they can do so as well. They are the best choice because they have the most experience in programming these keys and can offer you a better price. Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key works with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it. Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. These are more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were copied, it will not work in your car. It is essential that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they see signs that your car has been opened or damaged. This will make it extremely hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith. Laser-Cut Keys If you have a car with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a conventional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a certain depth in the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to spot and will not get locked out if your key is lost while working or running errands. If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call a professional locksmith who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store won't be able make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of keys. A locksmith will use an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce all the surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications. Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they don't contain electronic components or chips that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced with the new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key. Keep a spare car key in your car just in case of. automotive key replacement can then contact a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be towed back to the dealer. Fobs You may not own an old classic vehicle, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able perform this reprogramming, however it is usually better to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done correctly. Getting your car key fob replaced could cost up to $500, based on the type of key you use and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen. The loss of your car key was once a hassle. Now it's a serious issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys. The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. This “smart key” features a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealer to replace. If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program various vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a fob and a key that has the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.