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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost? It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. 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 more convenient, we have created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost. Mechanical Keys Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big issue. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost. The cheapest way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This type of key doesn't have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines. This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to function properly. This can only by done by a professional who knows what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer service professional. The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key in your car and store it safely. There are five distinct types of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for around $10. The next kind of car key is a transponder key with an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be duplicated using specific tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your car. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is close to your vehicle, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it on and take off with it. The cost of a new transponder key is usually higher than a standard key, but that is because it needs to be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming the transponder key, however it is always best to ask your car dealership if they can do so also. They are the best option since they have the most experience in programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate. A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key it is compatible with and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it. Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. They are a little more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your vehicle. It is important to not attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe indications that your car has been opened or altered. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith. Laser-Cut Keys If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between genuine 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 you're working or running errands. If you have a laser-cut key, then you'll need to call a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. G28 Car Keys of the time your local hardware store won't be able make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the tools required to cut and program these types of keys. A locksmith will use a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications. Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they do not contain any electronic chips or electronics that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key. Keep a spare car key in your car just in the event of. You can then contact a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer. Fobs You might not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it is usually better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed. The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen. It was once the case that losing your car key was an inconvenience however, it's now a major issue. That's because modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves. The new keys come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with a transponder and a mechanical key inside the same fob. This “smart key” comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace. If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for various vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges which could save you up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that's the same model, year and make as the original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.