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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost? The loss of your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road. If you lose your keys it is recommended to have a spare. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace keys for cars. Mechanical Keys Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it is much more costly to replace lost keys. Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine. Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed to work correctly. This can only by done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert. The cost to have a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and keep it safe. There are five types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10. The second 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. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. It could cost you $500 or more depending on your car's make and model. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is placed close to your car, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter to turn on your car and then drive off with it. A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular one, but that's only because it needs to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be able 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 because they have the most expertise in programming these keys and can give you a better rate. Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to figure out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it. Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are a little more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your car. It is crucial that you do not try to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see signs that your car has been opened or tampered with. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert. Laser-Cut Keys If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges 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 easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid being locked out in the event that you misplace your keys while working or running for errands. If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store will not be able to make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the tools required to cut and program these types of keys. A locksmith will employ a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to mill the key's metal, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle. Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key. It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you happen to lose your car keys. This way, you'll be able to call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you, so that you gain access to your vehicle without needing to pay to have it towed back by the dealership. Fobs If you don't own a classic car, the chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start the car without a key. These keys contain special computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it is generally better to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with your specific car and can ensure that it's done correctly. The cost of getting your car's key fob changed can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your fob gets lost or stolen. It used to be that losing your car key was a hassle However, now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to steal them. The advancements in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys. The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. car key replacement price comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealership to replace. If you have a spare key fob that works in your car and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist that can program your vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for less than what a dealer would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.