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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.

Before you lose your key It is recommended to have a spare. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big problem. You could just purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it is much more expensive to replace keys lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key at a cost of $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, that must be programmed correctly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, such as a local locksmith or even an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of a replacement car key to have an electronic key copied is relatively low however programming the chip in modern cars will usually cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. They're not as common however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that transmits 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 duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. This can cost up to $500 or more based on the model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is put into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could take off with it.

Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular key, however, this is because it needs to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally able to program 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 often have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to offer you an affordable price.

Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is important to research the key options before you purchase your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key works with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. These are more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been copied, it will not work with your car.

Regardless of what type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you never try to break into your own car yourself. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and could make mechanics reluctant to help particularly if they notice evidence that the car has been tampered with or opened. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional key made of metal. These keys do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a certain depth along the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're less likely to risk getting locked out if you happen to misplace your key while you're working or doing around.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to create an alternative key that is laser-cut, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will use an instrument that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will cut all the surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not have electronic components or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the full rebuild of the key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in case you happen to lose your cheap car key replacement key. That way you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle without having to pay to get it towed 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 which allow you to open and start the car without having a key. These keys contain special electronic chips that need to be programmed to work with the car you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can assist you in this process but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. That's not even including the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.

Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. It's now a major problem. That's because modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal them.

The new keys come in various dimensions and shapes however the most expensive is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost car keys replacement cost or tucked inside a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your car.