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Cost of Car Key Replacement It can be a huge hassle to lose your car keys, and expensive to replace keys. Based on the kind of key you have, the price can vary. A locksmith or dealer for an estimate is the best method to determine how much it will be to replace keys. Here is a list that includes the various factors that could affect the price. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, sometimes referred to as chip keys, are equipped with an electronic microchip that is embedded in the keyhead. When the chip is inserted in the ignition lock cylinder, it sends a coded message to the immobilizer on the car. The code is matched to a unique ID number that is connected to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle because it can't be started without the code. The transponder key was developed to make it more difficult for thieves to wire vehicles. Transponder keys require a unique code in order to activate. These unique codes are very difficult to duplicate using standard tools and must be copied by an auto locksmith. Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional bladed keys. The extra cost is worth it if you take into consideration the security benefits of this type key. Think about how important security is for you before you decide to purchase transponders. Consider your budget and lifestyle before deciding if the expense is worth it. Car dealerships often charge a fee for the replacement of car keys. This is due to the fact that they are the sole dealers for certain car models and have high overheads. There are a variety of professional locksmiths for cars that provide the same service for less costs. If you're unsure if your car is equipped with a transponder chip, you can consult your local dealer or an auto locksmith. They can tell you whether your vehicle has an electronic transponder and give you an estimate of the cost to get an entirely new key. It is essential to select an auto locksmith with a good reputation who has experience with your car model, regardless of whether you opt for the transponder that is less expensive or the more expensive keys that are not transponder-compatible. Laser-Cut Keys Certain newer cars use a more sophisticated design for keys known as a sidewinder or laser cut keys. These keys are made by a locksmith or dealership and include an embedded computer chip them. While these keys are more expensive than conventional ones, they also offer superior security features. This is why they're a better investment for those who are looking to protect their car from theft. Laser-cut keys differ from regular two-sided key because they are only cut in the middle. These cuts are more precise and difficult to duplicate than standard notches on regular blades. key replacement car are also harder to discern, making them an excellent deterrent for would-be thieves. A locksmith or dealer will make use of a milling device to create a laser-cut key. The machines utilize a bit that looks like an ax to slowly remove the key's metal. They can take out the exact amount of metal needed for a specific key, which gives them an extremely high level of accuracy which makes it difficult for a thief to cut their own duplicate. Another reason why laser-cut keys are more secure than traditional keys is that they cannot be used to unlock similar vehicles as they can with standard key locks. When a standard key is placed in a car, it transmits a signal that enables the vehicle to recognize it. This is why the engine won't start in the event of detecting an unidentified key. Laser-cut keys have a built-in transponder that's associated with a specific vehicle. This means that even if someone thief is able to cut and program a laser-cut key, the engine will still not start. To cut a laser-cut key the technician needs to have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle in order to locate the proper specifications for it on the CNC machine. The process could take anywhere between 15 minutes to a few hours based on the make and model of the vehicle that is being considered. Once the correct specifications are entered the key cut by laser is ready to be programmed by the locksmith or dealer. Dealerships Finding a replacement for your car key at the dealership might be the most expensive option however, it is usually necessary. The positive side is that a lot of times, it is covered by your warranty or insurance. It is advisable to check with your auto insurance provider to determine if key replacements are covered by the policy. It's also a great idea to have any damaged keys that are stolen, lost, or damaged deprogrammed by the dealer, to prevent anyone from using them again in the future. If you have a standard key fob, it might be the least expensive alternative to replace it at the dealership. However, if your key fob is equipped with a chip and isn't clonable, it will likely cost more to have it replaced at the dealership or by an locksmith. The cost of a key fob could vary widely based on the make and model of your vehicle, so it is recommended to speak with local locksmiths, dealers, or mechanics for an accurate price estimate. You can also save money by having your spare key cloned at the dealership. This can be cheaper than having it cloned by a locksmith, but you'll want to ensure that your spare key is compatible with the vehicle you're using it. If you're replacing your vehicle key at the dealership or through locksmiths, it's essential to make sure you record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will help to ensure that the replacement key is the correct fit and is compatible with your vehicle. You can locate your VIN in your owner's manual, on your dashboard or in the corner of your windshield, or on the front of your engine block. In the past, it wasn't an issue to lose the car keys. Modern technology has made it harder to replace keys and can be expensive. It is best to be prepared by carrying an extra key in your car or knowing what your options are for replacing your car keys in the event that they are stolen or lost.