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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost? The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service. Before you lose your key, it is a good idea to have a spare made. To make it easier, we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost. Mechanical Keys Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big issue. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it is much more expensive to replace lost keys. Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine. This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional. The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place. It's important to identify the kind of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. They're not as common, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for around $10. The next type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be duplicated using specific tools that are available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. It could cost you $500 or more depending on the car's model and make. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate a microchip in the key. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could take off with it. The cost of a new transponder key is usually higher than a conventional key, but that is because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they usually have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to give you the most competitive price. Many automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next car. You will be able to figure out which kind of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote. Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are a bit more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle. car key fob replacement what kind of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to gain entry into your vehicle yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you, especially if they see signs that the car has been tampered with or forced to open. It is very difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist. Laser-Cut Keys It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to lose or steal than a metal key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a particular depth on the face of the key. This makes it very easy to differentiate between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from the top. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while doing errands or working. If you have an uncut laser key, you will need to contact a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob. A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN and the key will be cut to match your vehicle's specifications. Laser-cut keys are different from a normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronics or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key. It's recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow back to the dealer. Fobs If you don't own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about your particular car, which can ensure it's done right. The cost of having your car's key fob changed can cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you use and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key you might want to have in case your key fob goes missing or stolen. It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience, but now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern cars have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves are able to take keys. The advances in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves. These new keys come in various dimensions and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. The “smart” key comes with a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put in a pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership. If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that can program your vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than the price a dealership will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.