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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost? It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road. When you lose your key, it is recommended to make a backup. To make this more convenient, we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost. Mechanical Keys It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big deal. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace a lost key. The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This type of key doesn't have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine. This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert. The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip that is used in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere secure. There are five types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know the type you have before getting help with replacing it. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10. The next type of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with specialized tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your car. Transponder Keys Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This feature is great because it stops theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and take off with it. The cost of a new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but only because it needs to be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming a transponder key, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so as well. They are the best option as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price. Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key works with it and whether 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 complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is cloned, it will not work with your car. No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they observe indications that your car has been opened or altered. This will make it extremely hard to get an exchange, so make sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith. Laser-Cut Keys A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key. The keys don't have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a certain depth in the middle of the face of the key. This makes it easy to differentiate between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from the top. They are easy to identify and you won't be locked out if your key is lost while working or running errands. If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to create the replacement key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob. A locksmith will use an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be extracted from the VIN and the key will be cut to match the specifications of your car. Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not have electronic components or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key. It's recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car key. So, you'll be able to call the locksmith and have it cut and programmed for you so that you'll have access to your car again without having to pay to get it towed back by the dealership. Fobs You may not have an old classic car however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys have special computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally best to have your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in your specific car and can ensure that it's done correctly. Getting your car key fob changed can cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you use and if it's remote-controlled or smart. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen. The loss of your car keys was once a hassle. Now it's a serious 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 them. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys. The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, however the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. key car replacement has a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace. If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work in another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your car.