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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.When you lose your key it is recommended to have a spare made. We have put together a guide on the cost to replace the car key.Mechanical KeysNot long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big deal. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for about $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't have a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.There are five distinct types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on your car. They're not as common however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.The next type is a transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. It could cost you $500 or more based on the model and make.Transponder KeysCars with transponder keys use an embedded microchip in the key that communicates with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to start. This is a great feature because it stops theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter to turn on your car and take it away.The cost of a brand new transponder key is usually slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. This is because they often have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to provide you with the most competitive price.A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is crucial to conduct your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out what type of key will work with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complex as they require specialized tools 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 the key is copied, it will not work with your car.It is crucial to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics won't help you if they see signs that your car has been opened or altered. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.Laser-Cut KeysIf you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're not at risk of getting locked out if you misplace your keys while working or doing around.If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit won't be able make you a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these types of key fobs.Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to cut the key's metal. This will remove 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 then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronic components or chips that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the full rebuild of the key.Have at least one spare car key in your possession just in case. You can then call an 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 back to the dealer.car replacement key costUnless you own an old classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start your car without a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it's better to let your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may need in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.The loss of your car keys was once a hassle. Now it's a serious problem. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves are now able to steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put in a pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you may want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program various vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealership will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your original so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.