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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost? The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road. It is a good plan to order a spare key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace the car key. Mechanical Keys Not too long ago, losing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could simply 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 lost keys. The most affordable method to accomplish this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key at a cost of $50 or less. This type of key doesn't have chip and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine. Modern car keys have transponders or chips which must be programmed to work properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer service professional. The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip in modern cars can cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and store it safely. There are five types of car keys available, so it's important to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10. The second type of car key is the transponder, which 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. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and is only possible with specialized tools that are only available to a locksmith or car dealer. auto key replacement G28CarKeys can cost up to $500 or more based on the car's make and model. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are used by vehicles to connect with their car. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn on your car and take it away. A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular one, but that's only because it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best choice as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys, and they can offer you a better price. Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which kind of key works with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it. Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are a bit more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle. It is essential to not attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they see signs that your vehicle has been forced open or damaged. This could make it difficult to obtain a replacement, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith. Laser-Cut Keys If you have a vehicle equipped with a laser cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or get stolen than a conventional metal key. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a particular depth in the middle of the face of the key. When you look at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working. If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store will not be able to create a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these kinds of keys. Locksmiths use an apparatus that resembles a standard drill in order to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications. Laser-cut keys are not like traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronic chips or electronics that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key. It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in case you happen to lose your car keys. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can get back into your car without having to pay for it to be towed by the dealer. Fobs If you don't own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start the car without a key. The keys contain electronic chips that need to be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is generally best to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done correctly. The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen. The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge issue. That's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys. The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. The “smart” key features a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer. If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that can program your vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for less than what a dealer would charge, which could save you $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.