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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost? Losing your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service. It is a good idea to order an extra key before you lose yours. To make this easier we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost. Mechanical Keys It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it is much more expensive to replace lost keys. The cheapest method of doing this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key doesn't have chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine. This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to function properly. key replacement car 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 mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you always have a backup key, and that you keep it in a safe place. It is important to determine the type of car keys you have before seeking help. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on your car. They're not as common, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $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 start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using special tools, which are only available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car. Transponder Keys Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is close to your vehicle or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to start. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and the transmitter to turn on your car and then drive off with it. The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is usually higher than a conventional key, but that is because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but you should always ask your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice since they have the most experience in programming these keys and will give you a better rate. Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next car. You should be able to figure out which kind of key it is compatible with and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it. Some newer vehicles come with a transponder password system. These are a bit more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, 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. No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will not assist you if they observe indications that your car has been opened or damaged. It is very difficult to obtain a new key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist. Laser-Cut Keys If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch 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 you look at the key from the top, it is easy to determine if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize and will not get locked out if your key is lost while doing errands or working. If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment to make these types of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store isn't able to make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of key fobs. A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like a standard drill in order to cut the metal of the key. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle. Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key. Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in case of. That way, you'll be able to call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you can have access to your car without having to pay to have it tow-back to the dealership. Fobs If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your car without a key. These keys contain special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming but it is usually recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done correctly. The cost of getting your car's key fob changed can cost as high as $500, based on the kind of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your key fob goes missing or stolen. It was once the case that losing your car keys was a hassle However, now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves can steal them. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves. These new keys come in different dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This “smart” key features a spring-loaded shank which folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put in a pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer. If you have a spare key fob that is in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to the price a dealership would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that is the same year, model and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.