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Cost of Car Key Replacement It's a big problem to lose your car keys and expensive to replace them. Depending on the kind of keys you own, the cost may differ. The best way to find out the cost to replace the car key is to speak with an auto locksmith or a dealership. Below is a list of the elements that could impact the cost. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are also known as chip keys. They contain the microchip which is embedded inside the head of the key. When the chip is placed in the cylinder for ignition, it sends an encrypted message to the immobilizer of the car. This code matches a special ID number that is linked to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle since it isn't able to be started without a valid code. The motivation behind the creation of this type of key was to make it harder for thieves to wire the vehicle. Before this technology was invented it was quite easy for thieves to start vehicles by connecting two wires, a process known as “hot wiring.” Transponder keys are so secure because they require a specific code to be activated. They are difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and should be cloned only by an auto locksmith. Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional bladed keys. This cost is worthwhile when you take into consideration the security advantages of this type of key. If you're thinking about purchasing a transponder-based key, first consider the importance of security to you. Then consider your budget and lifestyle to determine whether or not the added cost is worth it to you. Car dealerships usually charge a premium for key replacement services for cars. It is because they are the only dealers of certain models of cars and have high overheads. There are numerous professional car locksmiths who provide the same service but at lower costs. If you're unsure whether your vehicle has a transponder chip, you can check with your local dealer or an auto locksmith. They will be able to tell you if your car has an electronic transponder and provide you with an estimate of the cost to get new keys. Whichever you choose, lower-cost non-transponder key or more expensive transponder key, it's important to find a reliable auto locksmith with expertise working with your particular model of car. Laser-Cut Keys Some newer cars use the most advanced key design, known as a laser cut key or sidewinder key. These keys require a locksmith or car dealership to cut them and program the computer chip inside the key. They are more expensive, but they provide more security. This is why they're considered a better investment for those looking to protect their car from theft. Laser-cut keys differ from regular two-sided key because they are only cut in the middle. These cuts are much more precise and are far more difficult to duplicate than standard notches that are found on standard key blades. They are also more difficult to pick which makes them a great security measure for thieves. To create replacement for key fob -cut key, dealers or locksmiths use a milling machine that is specifically designed for this purpose. These machines employ a tool that looks like drills to slowly strip away the key's metal. They can remove exactly the amount of metal needed for a particular key, which gives them an extremely high level of precision. This makes it more difficult for a thief cut their own duplicate. Another reason why keys that are laser-cut are more secure than traditional keys is that they cannot be used to unlock other similar cars like they could with regular key locks. When a normal car key is inserted it sends a signal the vehicle which allows it to recognize it. This is the reason why the engine will refuse to start in the event of detecting an unidentified key. Laser-cut keys, however, have a built-in transponder, which is associated with a specific vehicle. This means that if a thief can program and cut a laser-cut key, the engine won't start. To cut a key laser-cut, a technician will need to have the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle in order to retrieve the appropriate specs for it in the CNC machine. The process can take between 15 minutes to a few days based on the model and make of the vehicle. Once the correct specifications have been entered the key laser-cut can 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 keys to your car. The good news is that many times, it is covered by your warranty or insurance. Check with your auto insurer to confirm that the replacement of keys is covered in the policy. It's also a great idea to get any damaged, lost or stolen keys removed by the dealer since this will stop anyone from using them in the future. If you have an ordinary key fob, it may be the least expensive option to get it replaced at the dealership. If the key fob you have is not clonable and has a built in chip it could cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob may vary greatly depending on the model and brand of your vehicle, so it's best to consult with local dealerships, locksmiths or mechanics to get an accurate cost estimate. Another way to cut costs is to bring your spare key with you to the dealership and having it cloned there. This is less expensive than having it copied by a locksmith, however you'll need to make sure that your spare key is compatible with the vehicle you're using it. It's essential to note down your VIN whether you're getting your car key replaced at a dealership or by locksmith. This will help ensure that the replacement key is the correct fit and can be paired with your vehicle. You can locate your VIN in the owner's manual on your dashboard, in the corner of your windshield, or on the front of your engine block. In the past, it was not an issue to lose the key to your car. Modern technology has made it harder to replace keys and could be costly. You should always have a spare car key at and ready in the event that your keys get stolen or lost.