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Cost of Car Key Replacement The loss of your car keys is an immense hassle and could be costly to replace. The cost will vary based on the kind of car keys you are using. Asking car key replacement or dealer for an estimate is the best method to determine how much it will cost to replace the key. Below is a list of the elements that could affect the cost. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, often called chip keys, have an electronic micro-chip built into the keyhead. The chip transmits a coded signal to the car's immobilizer when it is placed inside the ignition lock cylinder. This code matches an ID number that is attached to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle because it cannot be started without the code. The reason for the development of this type of key was to make it more difficult for thieves to wire vehicles. Transponder keys require a distinct code to be activated. They are difficult to duplicate using standard tools, and must be copied only by an auto locksmith. Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional bladed keys. However, this cost is usually worth it in the end when taking into account the security benefits that come with this type of key. Consider the importance of security for you prior to deciding to get transponders. Take into consideration your budget and your lifestyle before deciding if the extra cost is worth it. Dealerships charge a fee to replace keys for cars. This is due to the fact that they are the exclusive dealers of certain models of cars and have large expenses. There are other professional car locksmiths who provide the same high-quality service for less money. If you're unsure whether your car is equipped with a transponder chip, you can inquire with your local dealer or auto locksmith. They'll be able tell you whether or not your vehicle is chip-equipped and can also help you determine the cost to purchase a new one. If you decide to go with the less expensive non-transponder keys or the more expensive transponder keys, it is essential to locate a reputable auto locksmith that has expertise working with your particular model of vehicle. Laser-Cut Keys Some newer cars use keys with more advanced designs, known as a laser cut key or sidewinder key. Keys are cut by a locksmith or dealer and come with an embedded computer chip in the keys. These keys are more expensive, but they offer better security. This is why they are considered to be a more beneficial investment for those who want to prevent car theft. Contrary to conventional two-sided keys laser-cut keys have cuts in the middle of the key only. These cuts are more precise and harder to duplicate than standard notches on regular blades. They are also harder to detect and are a great security measure for thieves. A locksmith or dealer would employ a milling machine to create a laser-cut key. auto car key replacement use a bit designed like a drill to slowly remove the metal from the key. They can remove exactly the amount of metal required for a particular key, which gives them an extremely high level of precision. This makes it more difficult for thieves to cut their own copy. Another reason why keys that are laser-cut are more secure than conventional keys is because they can't be used to unlock other similar vehicles like they would with regular key locks. When a normal car key is inserted it sends a signal the vehicle which lets it recognize it. The engine will not begin if the key is not recognized. Laser-cut keys, however, have a built in transponder that is tied to a specific vehicle. This means that even if a thief is able to cut and program a laser-cut key however, the engine will not start. To cut a laser-cut keys technicians will need to have the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle to locate the proper specifications for it in the CNC machine. The process could take anywhere between 15 minutes and a few hours based on the model and make of the vehicle being examined. After the correct specifications have been entered, a laser-cut keys is ready to be programmed by the locksmith or dealer. Dealerships Finding a replacement for your car key through the dealership can be the most expensive option however, it is usually necessary. The good news is that many times, it is covered by insurance or your warranty. Check with your auto insurer to make sure that the replacement of keys is covered in the policy. It is also a good idea to have any stolen, lost, or damaged keys deprogrammed by the dealership, since this will ensure that no one else will be able to use them in the future. If you have a standard fob replacing it at a dealership may be the most affordable option. If your key fob has a chip built in and cannot be duplicated, it will likely cost more to get it replaced at the dealership or by locksmiths. The cost of a key fob may vary widely based on the model and brand of your car, therefore it's recommended to talk to local dealers, locksmiths or mechanics to get an accurate cost estimate. Another way to cut costs is by bringing your spare key to the dealership and having it copied there. This can be cheaper than having it cloned by a locksmith, but you'll need to make sure 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 to record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will help to ensure that the replacement key is of the correct size and is compatible with your vehicle. You can find your VIN in the owner's manual, on your dashboard in the corner of your windshield or on the front of your engine block. In the past, it wasn't a big deal to lose the key to your car. Modern technology has made it harder to replace keys, and this can be expensive. It is best to be prepared by having an extra key in your car or knowing what your options are for replacing your car keys in the event they are stolen or lost.