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Cost of Car Key Replacement Losing your car keys is an enormous hassle and can be expensive to replace. The cost can vary depending on the type you are using. Asking a locksmith or dealer for an estimate is the best way to learn how much it will be to replace the key. Here is a list that includes the various factors that could affect the price. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are also referred to as chip keys. They have an embedded microchip into the head of the key. The chip sends out a coded signal to the immobilizer of the car when it is placed inside the ignition lock cylinder. The code is matched to a unique ID number that is attached to the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a vehicle because it cannot be started without the code. The main reason behind the development of this type of key was to make it more difficult for thieves to heat wire a vehicle. Transponder keys require an unique code to activate. These codes are difficult to duplicate with standard tools, and should be duplicated only by an auto locksmith. Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional bladed keys. However, this cost is often worth it in the end when considering the security benefits of this kind of key. If you're considering getting a transponder-based key, first consider the importance of security to you. Think about your budget and lifestyle before deciding if the extra cost is worth it. Dealerships charge a fee to replace car keys. It is because they are the only dealers of certain car models and have large expenses. There are many professional car locksmiths who provide the same service at lower cost. If you're not sure if your car is equipped with a transponder chip, you can consult your local dealer or auto locksmith. They will be able to tell you if your car has a transponder chip and also give you an estimate of the cost to get an entirely new key. If you decide to go with the less expensive non-transponder keys or the more expensive transponder keys, it is essential to find a reliable auto locksmith who has experience working with your type of car. Laser-Cut Keys Some newer vehicles use a more sophisticated design for keys called a sidewinder, or laser cut keys. These keys are made by a locksmith or dealer and come with an embedded computer chip the keys. While these keys are more expensive than standard ones, they also offer superior security features. This is why they're considered a better investment for those who are looking to protect their car from theft. Laser-cut keys differ from regular two-sided keys since they have only a cut in the middle. These cuts are more precise and tougher to duplicate than the standard notches on standard key blades. They are also harder to detect, making them more effective in deterring thieves. A locksmith or dealer will use a milling machine to create a key that is laser-cut. These machines employ a tool that is shaped like a drill, to gradually strip the metal from the key. They can take out the exact amount of metal needed for the key in question and provide an extremely high level of accuracy which makes it harder for a criminal to cut their own copy. car key replacements -cut keys are also more secure than traditional keys since they are not able to open other vehicles with the same key lock. When a standard key is inserted into the vehicle, it emits a signal that allows the vehicle to recognize it. This is why the engine won't start if it detects an unrecognized key. Laser-cut keys, however, have a built in transponder, which is registered to a particular vehicle. This means that if someone can cut and program a laser-cut key, the engine will not start. A technician will require the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), of the vehicle, in order to retrieve the CNC machine's specifications to cut a laser-cutkey. This process can last between 15 minutes to a few days, depending on the model and make of the vehicle. Once the correct specifications are entered, a laser-cut key can 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 good news is that many times, it will be covered by your warranty or insurance. It is best to consult with your insurance company to determine if key replacements are covered by the policy. It is also a great idea to have any damaged keys, stolen or lost deprogrammed by the dealer, since this will stop anyone from using them in the future. If you have a standard fob getting it replaced at a dealer could be the least costly alternative. If your key fob is equipped with a chip and can't be cloned it's likely to cost more money to have it replaced at the dealership or through a locksmith. The cost of a key fob can vary widely based on the make and model of your car, therefore it's best to consult with local dealerships, locksmiths or mechanics to get an accurate cost estimate. You can also save money by having your spare key copied at the dealership. It's cheaper to have it cloned by the dealership than through locksmith. However, you'll want to make sure that your spare key works with your vehicle. It's essential to note down your VIN whether you're having your car keys replaced at a dealership or a locksmith. This will ensure that the replacement key fits correctly and can be paired to your vehicle. You will be able to locate your VIN on the dashboard of your vehicle, on the side of the windshield, in the corner of the windshield, on the front of the engine block, or in the owner's manual. In the past, losing a car key was not a big issue. However, the advancements in technology in modern vehicles has made it more difficult to replace keys, which could be extremely costly. Always keep an extra car key on the go or be aware of your options in the event that your keys get lost or stolen.