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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost? Losing keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road. If you lose your keys, it is a good idea to have a spare made. We have put together a guide on the price to replace a car key. Mechanical Keys Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace a lost key. Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with 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 properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance a local locksmith or even an expert from a dealership's service department. The cost of having a mechanical key copied is relatively low however programming the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you always have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere secure. There are five types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10. The next kind of car key is the transponder, which has an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your car. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. car key replacement cost uk incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is great because it stops theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it. Transponder keys cost a little bit more than a regular one, however, it's because it has to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally competent to program a transponder key, but it is best to ask your car dealership whether they are able to do this also. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with an affordable price. A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key it is compatible with and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it. Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was copied, it will not work in your car. Look At This what kind of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see signs that your car was opened or damaged. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert. Laser-Cut Keys If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a certain depth along the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. car key replacement cost uk that they're easy to recognize also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you misplace your keys while at work or doing errands. If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to an expert locksmith with the equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time the hardware store you visit will not be able to 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. A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to cut the metal of the key. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications. Laser-cut keys are not like traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronics or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced with the new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key. Have at least one spare car key in your possession just in the event of. You can then call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your car without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer. Fobs If you do not own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start the car without a key. These keys contain special electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able perform this reprogramming, however it's best to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in your particular car and can ensure that it's done right. The cost of replacing your car's 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 you may need in the event the fob goes missing or is stolen. The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves. The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This “smart” key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds in the fob to form the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership. If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for various vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealership will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that has the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.