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Cost of Car Key Replacement Losing your car keys can be an enormous hassle and can be expensive to replace. The cost will vary based on the kind of car keys you are using. The best method to determine the price to replace a car key is to ask an auto locksmith or a dealership. Below is a list of some of the variables that could impact the price. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are also referred to as chip keys. They contain an embedded microchip inside the head of the key. When the chip is inserted in the ignition lock cylinder and it sends a coded message to immobilizer on the car. This code is in line with an ID number that is attached 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 created to make it harder for thieves to heat-wire vehicles. Transponder keys require an unique code 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 bladed traditional keys. However, this cost can be worth it in the end when taking into account the security advantages that come with this type of key. Consider the importance of security for you before deciding to get a transponder. Think about your budget and lifestyle before deciding if the extra expense is worth it. Dealerships charge a fee to replace car keys. This is due to the fact that they have exclusive rights to sell specific models of cars and have very high overheads. There are numerous professional car locksmiths who provide the same service for less costs. If you are unsure whether your car has chip, inquire with your local auto locksmith or dealer. They can tell you whether your vehicle has an electronic transponder and provide an estimate of the cost to purchase new keys. It is essential to select an auto locksmith that is reputable and has experience with your vehicle model, regardless of whether you opt for the cheaper transponder or the more expensive keys that are not transponder-compatible. Laser-Cut Keys Some modern cars have a more advanced key design, known as laser cut keys or sidewinder key. These keys require a locksmith or car dealership to cut them, and then program the computer chip inside the key. They are more expensive, yet they offer more security. This is why they are regarded as a more beneficial investment for people who want to stop 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 difficult to duplicate than standard notches on standard key blades. They are also difficult to pick and are a great protection against thieves who might be. A locksmith or dealer can employ a milling machine to create a key that is laser-cut. The machines utilize a bit shaped like a drill to slowly strip the metal from the key. They can take out precisely the amount of metal needed for a particular key, giving them a high degree of precision. This makes it harder for thieves to make their own copy. Another reason why keys made of lasers are more secure than traditional keys is because they can't be used to unlock similar cars like they could with regular key locks. When car key replacement price is placed in a car, it transmits a signal that allows the vehicle to recognize it. This is the reason why the engine will refuse to start when it detects an unidentified key. Laser-cut keys, however, have a built in transponder that's associated with a specific vehicle. This means that even if a thief can cut and program a laser-cut key, the engine will still not start. A technician will require the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), of the vehicle, in order to locate the CNC machine's specifications to cut a laser-cutkey. The process can take between 15 minutes to a few days, depending on the make and model of the vehicle. After the correct specifications have been completed, a laser-cut key will be ready for programming by the locksmith or dealership. Dealerships Finding a replacement for your car key through the dealership can be the most expensive option, but it is often necessary. The good news is that a lot of times it can be covered by your warranty or insurance. Check with your auto insurance provider to confirm 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 can use them in the future. If you have a standard fob replacing it at a dealership may be the cheapest option. However, if your fob has a chip built in and isn't clonable, it will likely cost more money to have it replaced at the dealership or by an locksmith. The cost of a key fob can vary greatly depending on the make and model of your car, so it's recommended to talk to local dealerships, locksmiths or mechanics for a precise cost estimate. Another way to cut costs is to take your spare key with you to the dealership and having it cloned there. This is cheaper than having it cloned by a locksmith, but you'll want to ensure that your spare key is compatible with your vehicle. Whether you're replacing your car key at the dealership or using a locksmith, it's important to make sure you write down your vehicle identification number (VIN). This will ensure that the key replacement is of the correct size and is 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 and on the side of the engine block or in the owner's manual. In the past the days of car keys being lost, it was no big deal. However, the advancements in technology in modern vehicles has made it more difficult to replace them, and this could be extremely expensive. It is recommended to be prepared by carrying a spare key with you or knowing what options you have for replacing your car keys in the event that they are stolen or lost.