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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 return to the road. It is a good plan to purchase a spare key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the price to replace a car key. Mechanical Keys It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge deal. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace keys lost. The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine. This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance a local locksmith or even an expert from a dealership's service department. The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and store it safely. It's important to identify the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on your car. They're not as common however, you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for around $10. The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be duplicated using specialized tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car. Transponder Keys Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it on and take 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 has to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder with many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice because they have the most experience in programming these keys and will offer you a better price. A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is crucial to conduct your research before purchasing your next car. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it, and whether or not it requires the use of a remote to unlock it. Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. car key replacement near me are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your car. It is essential to not attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been damaged or opened. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert. Laser-Cut Keys If you have a vehicle equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a certain depth along the face of the key. This makes it very easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you're not at risk of getting locked out if you misplace your key while you're at work or doing around. If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store won't be able make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these kinds of keys. A locksmith will use an instrument that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications. Laser-cut keys are different from a regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronic components or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with the new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key. It's recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car key. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed by the dealer. Fobs There's a chance that you don't have an old classic car but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the car you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you but it's generally recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools. Getting replacement key for car near me changed can cost as much as $500, based on the kind of key you use and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen. The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge issue. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys. The new keys are available in various shapes and sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This “smart” key has a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a 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 a spare fob that works in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that offers programming for many vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges and save yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that's the same year, model and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.