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Cost of Car Key Replacement It can be a huge trouble to lose your car keys and expensive to replace them. The cost can be different based on the type of key you have. The best way to find out the cost to replace a car key is to ask the locksmith or dealer. Here is a list that includes some of the factors which can influence the cost. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are also referred as chip keys. replacement key fob car are equipped with the microchip which is embedded inside the head of the key. 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 associated with the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle 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 wire a vehicle. Before this technology was invented it was easy for thieves to start cars by connecting two wires, a process called “hot wiring.” Transponder keys are extremely secure due to the fact that they require a specific code to be activated. They are difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and need to be cloned only by an auto locksmith. In the end, the transponder key is more expensive than traditional bladed keys. This cost is worth it when you think about the security benefits of this type key. Consider how important security is for you before you decide to get a transponder. Then consider your budget and your lifestyle to determine whether or not the cost is worth it to you. Dealerships charge a premium to replace car keys. This is due to the fact that they have exclusive right to sell certain models of vehicles and have high overheads. There are numerous professional car locksmiths that offer the same service but at lower cost. If you are unsure if your car has a chip, you can ask your local auto locksmith or dealer. They'll be able to inform you if your vehicle is chip-equipped and also help determine the cost of getting an upgrade. It is important to select an auto locksmith with a good reputation who has experience with your car model, regardless of whether you opt for the cheaper transponder or the more expensive keys that are not transponder-compatible. Laser-Cut Keys Some newer cars use a more advanced key design, known as laser cut keys or sidewinder key. These keys require an auto dealer or locksmith to cut them and program the computer chip inside the key. While these keys are more expensive than standard ones, they also offer superior security features. This is why they're considered an investment that is more beneficial for those looking to protect their car from theft. Laser-cut keys differ from standard two-sided keys because they only have a cut in the middle. The cuts are more precise and much more difficult to duplicate than the standard notches found on regular key blades. They are also difficult to pick, making them an excellent security measure for thieves. To make a laser-cut key, the locksmith or dealer utilizes a milling machine that is specifically designed for this purpose. These machines use a bit that looks like drills to slowly strip away the key's metal. They can take out the exact amount of metal needed to make a particular key, which gives them a high level of precision which makes it harder for thieves to cut their own duplicate. Another reason why keys that are laser-cut 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 normal key is placed in the car, it sends a signal that enables the vehicle to recognize it. The engine will not start if the key is not recognized. However, laser-cut keys come with an embedded transponder that is registered to a specific car. This means that if a burglar can program and cut a laser-cutted key, the engine will not start. To cut a key laser-cut, a technician will need to have the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle to locate the proper specifications for it in the CNC machine. This process can last between 15 minutes to a few days, depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Once the correct specifications have been entered the key laser-cut can be programmed by the locksmith or dealer. Dealerships The dealership is the most expensive but it is often the best option to replace your car keys. It is often covered by your insurance or warranty. Check with your auto insurer to ensure that the replacement of keys is covered in the policy. It's also a great idea to get any damaged, lost or stolen keys deprogrammed by the dealer, since this will stop anyone from using them again in the future. If you have a standard key fob, replacing it by a dealership could be the most affordable option. However, if your fob has a built-in chip and cannot be duplicated it is likely to cost more money to have it replaced at the dealership or by an locksmith. The price of a key fob can differ widely based on your car's model and model. It is recommended to contact local locksmiths, mechanics or dealerships to get an accurate estimate. Another option to save money is to bring your spare key to the dealership and having it cloned there. This is cheaper than having it copied by a locksmith, however you'll want to ensure that your spare key is compatible with your car. If you're replacing your vehicle key at the dealership or through locksmiths, it's essential to take the time to record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will ensure that the replacement key fits correctly and is paired with your vehicle. You will be able to locate your VIN on the dashboard of your car or on the windshield at 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. The technology of modern vehicles has made it harder to replace keys and this can be costly. It is recommended to be prepared by carrying an extra key in your car or knowing what your options are to replace your car keys in the event that they are lost or stolen.