How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost? The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road. When you lose your key it is recommended to have a spare made. We have compiled a guide on the cost to replace the car key. Mechanical Keys It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big deal. https://reynolds-sutton.thoughtlanes.net/20-reasons-why-cost-of-car-key-replacement-cannot-be-forgotten-1726254101 could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced, and it is much more costly to replace keys that have been lost. Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. 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 automobile 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 is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert. 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 recommended to keep a spare key in your car and keep it in a safe place. There are five different types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common however you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10. The second type is the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. It could cost you $500 or more depending on the model and make. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They use a microchip in 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 start. This is a great feature because it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter in order to turn on your car and take it away. The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a traditional key, but only because it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming the transponder key, however it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so also. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with a more competitive price. Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next car. You will be able to figure out which type of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote. Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. These are more complicated because they require special tools to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your vehicle. No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you particularly if they notice evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or forced open. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith. Laser-Cut Keys If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's a lot harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from above. https://notes.io/w14Pk are easy to spot and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're working or running errands. If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to provide you with the replacement key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob. A locksmith will use a machine that appears like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle. Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key. It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car key. Then, you can call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed to the dealer. Fobs Unless you own an old classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys contain special computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the car you own. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you but it's generally recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about your specific car and can ensure that it's done right. The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you use and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event the fob goes missing or is stolen. It was once the case that losing your car key was a pain However, now it's an actual issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal the keys. The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds down into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace. If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program a variety of vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges which could save you around $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.