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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost? It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service. When you lose your key It is a good idea to have a spare. To make this more convenient, we have created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost. Mechanical Keys Not too long ago, losing or losing keys to your car was not a big problem. You could just buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost. The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They can usually copy a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key does not have chip and will not be able unlock doors or start engines. This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer service professional. The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere safe. It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. They're not as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10. The next type of car key is the transponder key that has an embedded security chip that sends an electronic signal to the car's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using special tools that are only accessible to a locksmith dealer of cars. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on your car's make and model. Transponder Keys Cars with transponder keys use a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to start. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter in order to turn on your car and drive away with it. The cost of a new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a standard key, but this is due to the fact that it has to be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is best to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this as well. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to give you an affordable price. Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it. Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are a bit more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they use rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your car. It is essential that you don't attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. car key replacement could raise red flags with insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to assist you, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith. Laser-Cut Keys If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll notice that it's much 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 certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to tell 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 keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. Most of the time your local hardware store won't be able create an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs. A locksmith uses a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle. In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not contain any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key. Keep a spare car key in your possession just in case of. So you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you gain access to your vehicle without having to pay to get it tow-back by the dealership. Fobs If you do not own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses 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 that must be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you but it's generally best to have your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are familiar with your specific car, which can ensure it's done right. The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event the fob goes missing or is stolen. It was once the case that losing your car keys was a pain However, now it's a major issue. That's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take keys, says 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 a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. The “smart” key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds into the fob like a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or put into a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer. If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work with another vehicle, you may think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealer will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.