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The Top Replacement Car Keys Cost Experts Are Doing 3 Things How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost? It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service. If you lose your keys, it is a good idea to have a spare. To make this easier, we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost. Mechanical Keys It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge issue. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. However, today's cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost. The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine. This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department. replacement car key costs of having a mechanical key copied is relatively low however programming the chip in modern cars will usually cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it in a safe place. There are five different types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know which one you have before getting help with replacing it. An older, standard car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. 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 that transmits a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with specialized tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. It could cost you $500 or more, depending on your car's model and make. Transponder Keys Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is close to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief requires both the right key and the transmitter to start your car and drive away with it. A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular one, however, this is because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and can offer you a better price. Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires the use of a remote to unlock it. Some newer cars come equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. However, they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your car. It is essential to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the type of key. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been altered or forced to open. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist. Laser-Cut Keys You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to steal or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a specific depth in the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to determine whether it's fake or not. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out if your key is lost while you're doing errands or working. If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to create the replacement key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob. A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key until 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. In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a full rebuild of the key. It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key available 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 reenter your car without having to pay for it to be tow to the dealer. Fobs You may not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it is usually best to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed. The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen. It used to be that losing your car key was an inconvenience, but 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 are able to steal keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal the keys. These new keys come in different sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" features a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. These are typically pricier than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace. If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealership would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Just make sure 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 vehicle.