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Cost of Car Key Replacement It can be a huge trouble to lose your car keys and it can be costly to replace keys. Depending on the kind of keys you have, the costs will differ. Contacting a locksmith or dealer for an estimate is the best way to learn the cost to replace the key. Here is a list of the various factors that can affect the cost. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, sometimes called chip keys, have an electronic micro-chip built into the keyhead. When the chip is placed in the ignition lock cylinder it transmits a coded message to immobilizer of the vehicle. This code matches an ID number attached to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a car since it isn't able to be started without the code. The motivation behind the creation of this type of key was to make it harder for thieves to hot wire the vehicle. Before this technology came along it was easy for thieves to open cars by connecting two wires using a technique known as “hot wiring.” The transponder keys are so secure because they require a specific code to be activated. They are difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and need to be duplicated only by an auto locksmith. This means that the transponder key is more expensive than conventional bladed keys. This cost is worth it if you take into consideration the security advantages of this type key. If you're thinking of purchasing a transponder key, first determine how important security is to you. Consider your budget and lifestyle before deciding if the cost is worth it. Car dealerships typically charge a fee for car key replacement services. This is due to the fact that they have exclusive rights to sell certain models of cars and have very high costs of operation. There are many professional locksmiths for cars that provide the same service at lower rates. If you're unsure if your car has a transponder chip, you can check with the local dealer or auto locksmith. They'll be able to tell whether your car is equipped with a transponder chip, and provide you with an estimate of the cost to purchase new keys. Read the Full Report is important to select a reputable auto locksmith who has experience with your car type, whether you go for a cheaper transponder or the more expensive keys that are not transponder-compatible. Laser-Cut Keys Certain newer cars use a more sophisticated design for keys called a sidewinder or laser cut key. These keys require an auto dealer or locksmith to cut them and program an electronic chip into the key. They're more expensive, yet they offer more security. This is why they are considered a better investment for those who wish to avoid car theft. In contrast to regular two-sided keys laser-cut keys are cut in the center of the key only. These cuts are more precise and tougher to duplicate than standard notches on regular key blades. They are also more difficult to detect, making them an excellent protection against thieves who might be. A locksmith or dealer can use a milling machine to make a laser-cutted key. These machines use a bit that looks like an ax to slowly remove the key's metal. They can remove precisely the amount of metal needed for a particular key that gives them the highest level of precision that makes it more difficult for thieves to make their own duplicate. Another reason why keys made of lasers are more secure than traditional keys is because they can't be used to unlock similar vehicles as they can use regular keys. When a regular car key is inserted it sends a signal the vehicle, which lets it recognize it. This is why the engine will refuse to 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 won't start. A technician will require the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), of the vehicle, in order to retrieve the CNC machine's specifications for cutting the laser. This process can last between 15 minutes to a few days depending on the model and brand of the vehicle. After the correct specifications have been entered, a laser-cut keys will be ready for programming by the locksmith or dealer. Dealerships The process of replacing your car keys at a dealership is the most expensive option however, it is usually necessary. The good news is that many times, it is covered by your warranty or insurance. Check with your auto insurer to ensure that the replacement of keys is covered in the policy. It is also a great idea to get any damaged, lost or stolen keys deprogrammed by the dealer, to prevent anyone from using them again in the future. If you have an ordinary key fob, it could be the least expensive alternative to replace it at the dealership. If your key fob isn't clonable and has a chip built-in it could cost more to replace it at the dealership. The price of a key fob can differ widely based on the model of your car and make. It is best to speak with local locksmiths, mechanics or dealerships to get an accurate estimate. Another method to cut costs is to take your spare key with you to the dealership and having it cloned there. This can be cheaper than having it copied by a locksmith, however you'll want to make sure your spare key is compatible with your vehicle. If you're replacing your car key at the dealership or through a locksmith, it's important to make sure you record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will help ensure that the new key is a good fit and is compatible with your vehicle. You can locate your VIN on the dashboard of your car or on the windshield in the corner of the windshield and on the side of the engine block, or in the owner's manual. In the past, it wasn't a big deal to lose the key to your car. However, the advancements in technology in modern cars has made it much more difficult to replace them, and this can be very expensive. It is recommended to be prepared with a spare key with you, or know what your options are to replace your car keys in the event that they get stolen or lost.