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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost? The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service. It is a good plan 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 It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big problem. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's more costly to replace keys lost. An auto locksmith can be the cheapest alternative. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with a chip and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine. This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, like the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional. The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively low however programming the chip in modern cars will usually cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere safe. There are five different types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. These aren't common anymore however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10. The next kind of car key is the transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and is only possible with special tools, which are only available to a locksmith or car dealer. This can cost up to $500 or more based on the car's make and model. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is close to your vehicle or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have because it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter to start your car and then drive off with it. The cost of a new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but that is because it has to be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming a transponder key, but it is recommended to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it as well. They are the best choice as they have the best experience in programming these keys and can offer you a better price. Many automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key will work with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it. Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car. No matter what kind of key you've got, it is crucial that you do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will not assist you if they see signs that your car was opened or altered. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert. Laser-Cut Keys A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to steal or lose than a key made of metal. key replacements car with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a set depth up the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to determine whether it's fake or not. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while you're working or running errands. If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to talk to a professional locksmith with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Most of the time your local hardware store isn't able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these types of key fobs. A locksmith uses a machine that appears like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will then be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications. Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they do not have electronic components or chips that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by the new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key. Keep at least one spare car key in your possession just in the event of. That way you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle again without needing to pay to have it tow-back at the dealership. Fobs If you don't own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right. Getting your car key fob replaced could cost up to $500, based on the type of key you drive and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might want to have in case your key fob goes missing or stolen. The loss of your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now it's a serious problem. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys. These new keys come in various dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key inside the same fob. This “smart key” features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, like the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace. If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist that offers programming for many vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges and save yourself around $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.