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Cost of Car Key Replacement It can be a major trouble to lose your car keys and it can be costly to replace keys. Depending on the kind of keys you have, the price may vary. A locksmith or dealer for an estimate is the best way to learn how much it will be to replace keys. Here is a list that includes several factors that could affect the price. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, often called chip keys, are equipped with an electronic microchip that is embedded in the keyhead. When the chip is placed in the cylinder for ignition, it sends an encrypted message to the immobilizer of the vehicle. The code is matched to a unique ID number that is connected to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a car because it cannot be started without a valid code. The transponder key was created to make it difficult for thieves to hot-wire vehicles. Before the invention of this technology it was easy for thieves to start cars by connecting two wires using a technique called “hot wiring.” Transponder keys are secure because they require a specific code to be activated. These unique codes are difficult to duplicate using regular tools and must be cloned by an auto locksmith. Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional bladed keys. The extra cost is worth it if you take into consideration the security advantages of this type of key. If you're thinking of purchasing a transponder-based key, first determine how important security is to you. Consider your budget and lifestyle before deciding if the additional cost is worth it. Dealerships charge a fee to replace car keys. This is because they hold exclusive rights to sell specific models of cars and have very high overheads. However, there are other professional car locksmiths who provide the same service for less. If you aren't sure whether your car has a chip, you can consult your 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 get new keys. Whether you opt for the less expensive non-transponder keys or the more expensive transponder key, it's important to find a reliable auto locksmith that has worked with your model of car. Laser-Cut Keys Some newer vehicles use a more sophisticated design for keys called a sidewinder, or laser cut keys. These keys require a locksmith or car dealership to cut them, and then program the computer chip inside the key. They are more expensive, but they provide better security. This is the reason why they're the best choice for those looking to avoid car theft. Laser-cut keys are different from regular two-sided keys since they are only cut in the middle. These cuts are much more precise and are a lot harder to duplicate than standard notches used on regular key blades. They are also more difficult to pick, making them an excellent protection against thieves who might be. A locksmith or dealer can use a milling machine to create a key that is laser-cut. These machines employ a tool designed like a drill to gradually strip the metal from the key. They can remove exactly the amount of metal required for a specific key, giving them a high degree of precision. This makes it difficult for thieves to cut their own copy. Laser-cut keys can also be more secure than conventional keys because they can't be used to open other vehicles with the same lock. When a regular key is inserted into the car, it sends a signal that allows the vehicle to recognize it. This is why the engine won't start in the event of detecting an unidentified key. Laser-cut keys have a built in transponder that is tied to a specific vehicle. This means that if a thief is able to program and cut a laser-cutted key, the engine won't start. To cut a key laser-cut the technician needs to have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle in order to retrieve the appropriate specs for it on the CNC machine. The process can range from 15 minutes to several hours, depending on the model and make of the vehicle in question. Once car key replacements have been entered, the laser-cut key is now 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 positive side is that a lot of times it can be covered by your warranty or insurance. It is best to consult with your insurance company to determine if replacement keys are covered by the policy. It is also a great idea to get any damaged, lost or stolen keys deprogrammed by your dealer, as this will prevent anyone from using them in the future. If you have a standard key fob, it could be the cheapest option to replace it at the dealership. If your key fob isn't capable of cloning and has a built in chip, it may cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a keyfob may differ widely based on the model of your car and make. It is best to contact local locksmiths, mechanics or dealerships to obtain an accurate estimate. Another way to cut costs is by bringing your spare key with you to the dealer and having it cloned there. It's cheaper to have it cloned at the dealership than by locksmith. However, you'll need to ensure that the spare key is compatible with your vehicle. It's important that you write down your VIN, whether you're having your car key replaced at a dealership or by a locksmith. This will ensure that your replacement key fits correctly and can be connected to your vehicle. You can locate 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 days of car keys being lost, it was not a major issue. However, the advanced technology of modern cars has made it more difficult to replace keys, and this can be quite expensive. Always keep a spare car key at the go or be aware of your options in the event that your keys get stolen or lost.