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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost? It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road. Before you lose your key It is an ideal idea to make a backup. We have compiled a list on the price to replace a car key. Mechanical Keys It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big deal. You could just purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace keys that have been lost. Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key for about $50 or less. However, this kind of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine. This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, such as a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional. The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip that is used in modern cars can cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you have a backup key and that you keep it in a safe place. It's important to identify the type of car key you have before seeking help. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however, they are available at your local home improvement store for $10. The second type of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with specific tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This feature is beneficial because it stops theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter to start your car and drive away with it. car key replacement cost just a bit more than a regular key, but that's only because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they are able to do it. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to provide you with the most competitive price. Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to buying your next car. You will be able to figure out what type of key works with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote. Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with transponder password systems. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been copied, it will not work with your vehicle. It is crucial that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they see indications that your car has been opened or tampered with. It is very difficult to get a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert. Laser-Cut Keys It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key. The keys don't have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a particular depth in the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to determine if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're doing errands or working. If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able provide you with the replacement key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob. A locksmith uses an instrument that appears like a regular drill to mill the key's metal, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN, and the key will then be cut according to your vehicle's specifications. Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they do not have electronic chips or electronics that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced by a new one. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key. It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. You can then contact a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed to the dealer. Fobs If you do not own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start the car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it is generally best to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about your particular car, which can ensure it's done correctly. Getting your car key fob changed can cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you drive and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you might want to have in case your fob gets lost or stolen. It was once the case that losing your car key was an inconvenience however, it's now an actual issue. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal them. The new keys come in various dimensions and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. This “smart” key has a spring-loaded shank that can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked into a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace. If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in another vehicle, you may think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program many different vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges and save yourself as much as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that is the same year, model and make as your original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.