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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost? The loss of keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road. Before you lose your key, it is a good idea to make a backup. To make it easier we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost. Mechanical Keys It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big problem. You could simply buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost. An auto locksmith can be the cheapest option. They are usually capable of copying a standard metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. This type of key does not have a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine. Modern car keys come with transponders or chips that must be programmed properly. car key button replacement can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert. The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip used in modern cars can cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you have a backup key, and keep it somewhere secure. It's crucial to know the kind of car key you have before seeking help. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however, you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10. The next type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle. Transponder Keys Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key to communicate with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it. The cost of a new transponder keys is typically a little more expensive than a traditional key, but this is due to the fact that it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best option as they have the best expertise in programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price. 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 find out which type of key it is compatible with and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it. Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car. It is essential that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will not assist you if they see indications that your car has been forced open or tampered with. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith. Laser-Cut Keys It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to steal or lose than a metal key. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a certain depth on the key's face. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working. If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to call a locksmith professional with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob. A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code can be extracted from the VIN, and the key will be cut to match your vehicle's specifications. In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key. Keep at least one spare car key in your possession in case of the event of. So you'll be able call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you so that you'll gain access to your vehicle again without needing to pay to have it towed back by the dealership. Fobs You may not own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you however it's recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools. The cost of replacing your car's 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 mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that the fob goes missing or is stolen. It used to be that losing your car keys was a hassle, but now it's a real problem. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves. The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This “smart key” features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or tucked inside pockets like a coat. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and could require the assistance of a dealership to replace. If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges and save yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that has the same model, year and make as the original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.