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Cost of Car Key Replacement The loss of your car keys is an enormous hassle and can be costly to replace. Depending on the kind of keys you have, the price may differ. The best way to find out how much it will cost to replace the car key is to talk to the locksmith or dealer. Below is a list of some of the factors that can impact the cost. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are also referred as chip keys. They have an embedded microchip in the head of the key. When the chip is inserted into the cylinder of the ignition lock, it sends an encrypted message to the immobilizer on the car. This code is unique to the ID number that is connected to the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a car because it can't be started without the code. The reason for the development of this type of key was to make it harder for thieves to wire the vehicle. Before this technology was invented it was easy for thieves to open vehicles by connecting two wires using a technique known as “hot wiring.” Transponder keys are so secure because they require a specific code to be activated. They are difficult to duplicate with standard tools, and should be copied only by an auto locksmith. Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional bladed keys. However, the extra cost is often worth it in the long run, especially when taking into account the security benefits that come with this type of key. If you're considering getting a transponder key, you must first decide on the importance of security to you. Take into auto car key replacement and lifestyle to determine whether or not the cost is worth it to you. Dealerships are charged a premium to replace car keys. This is due to the fact that they are the only dealers of certain models of cars and have huge expenses. There are numerous professional locksmiths for cars that provide the same service at lower cost. If you're unsure if your vehicle has a transponder chip, inquire with your local dealer or an auto locksmith. They can tell you whether your car is equipped with an electronic transponder and provide you with an estimate of the cost for new keys. It's important to choose an auto locksmith that is reputable and has experience with your vehicle type, whether you go for the cheaper transponder or the more expensive keys that are not transponder-compatible. Laser-Cut Keys Certain newer cars use a more sophisticated key design called a sidewinder, or laser cut key. These keys are cut by a locksmith or dealer and include an embedded computer chip the keys. While these keys are more expensive than conventional keys, they also come with more security features. This is why they are regarded as a better investment for those who wish to avoid car theft. Laser-cut keys are different from standard two-sided keys because they are only cut in the middle. These cuts are much more precise and are far more difficult to duplicate than standard notches found on regular key blades. They are also harder to detect, making them an excellent protection against thieves who might be. A locksmith or dealer will use a milling machine to create a key that is laser-cut. These machines use a bit that resembles a drill to slowly remove the key's metal. They can take out the exact amount of metal required for a specific key and provide the highest level of precision which makes it harder for a criminal to cut their own duplicate. Laser-cut keys are more secure than conventional keys because they can't be used to unlock other cars using the same key lock. When a standard car key is used, it sends a signal to the vehicle that allows it to recognize it. The engine won't start when the key isn't recognized. But, laser-cut keys have an embedded transponder that is registered to a specific car. This means that if a thief is able to program and cut a laser-cut key, the engine will not start. To cut a laser-cut key technicians will need 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 depending on the make and model of the vehicle that is being considered. Once the correct specifications are entered, the laser-cut key is ready to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. Dealerships The dealership is the most expensive however, it is the most often needed option to replace your car keys. The good news is that a lot of times, it is covered by your warranty or insurance. Contact your insurance company to make sure that the replacement of keys is covered in the policy. It is also an excellent idea to have any stolen, lost, or damaged keys deprogrammed at the dealership, as this will ensure that no one will be able to use them in the future. If you have a standard key fob it could be the most affordable alternative to replace it at the dealership. If your key fob is not replicable and comes with a chip built-in it could cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob may differ greatly based on the model and make of your car, so it's best to consult with local locksmiths, dealers, or mechanics to get an accurate cost estimate. You can also save money by having your spare key cloned at the dealership. It is cheaper to have it copied at the dealership than through locksmith. However, automotive car key replacement 'll want to make sure that your spare key works with your vehicle. It is essential to record your VIN whether you're getting your car key replaced by a dealer or a locksmith. This will help to ensure that the replacement key is a good fit and will be compatible with your vehicle. You should be able to find your VIN on the dashboard of your car on the windshield in the corner of the windshield, on the front of the engine block or in the owner's manual. In the past the past, losing a car key was not a big issue. However, the technology of modern cars has made it much more difficult to replace them, and this could be extremely expensive. It is recommended to always keep a spare car key at and ready in the event that your keys get lost or stolen.