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Losing keys to your car key cover replacement is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

It is a good idea to order a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a guide on the cost to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it is much more costly to replace lost keys.

The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key doesn't have chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, which must be programmed properly. This is only done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer service professional.

The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip that is used in a modern car will usually cost of a replacement car key more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere secure.

There are five different kinds of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your car. They're not as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specific tools that are only accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize an embedded microchip in the key that communicates with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car key replacement service to begin. This is an excellent feature to have since it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and the transmitter to turn on your car and then drive off with it.

A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular key, however, this is because it has to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this also. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to offer you a more competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out what type of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. These are more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got, it is crucial to never attempt to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe indications that your car has been opened or tampered with. It is very difficult to get a new key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile car key replacement auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a traditional metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth up the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to tell if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you're less likely to risk getting locked out if you misplace your key while you're at work or doing errands.

If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases, your local hardware store isn't able to make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.

A locksmith uses a machine that looks very like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will then be extracted from the VIN and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your car.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you happen to lose your car keys. That way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you so that you can have access to your car again, without having to pay to have it tow back at the dealership.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start the car without having a key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it's better to let your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are familiar with your particular car, which can ensure it's done right.

The cost of having your car's key fob changed can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event the fob goes missing or is stolen.

The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key replacement key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. The "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank that can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden in a pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than standard 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 cloned to work in a different vehicle, you may think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program many different vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than the price a dealership will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that's the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.