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Cost of Car Key Replacement Losing your car keys can be an enormous hassle and can be costly to replace. The cost will vary based on the type of key you have. Contacting a locksmith or dealer to provide an estimate is the best method to determine the cost to replace the key. Below is a list of a few of the variables that could impact the price. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are also known as chip keys. They contain a microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The chip sends out an encrypted signal to the car's immobilizer when it is inserted into the ignition lock cylinder. This code is in line with an ID number attached to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle because it cannot be started without the code. This kind of key was created to make it more difficult for thieves to heat-wire a vehicle. Transponder keys require an unique code to be activated. These unique codes are very difficult to duplicate using standard tools, and must be copied by an auto locksmith. This means that the transponder key is more expensive than conventional bladed keys. The extra cost is worth it when you take into consideration the security benefits of this type key. Consider the importance of security for you before you decide to get transponders. Then consider your budget and your lifestyle to determine whether or not the cost is worth it to you. Dealerships charge a fee to replace car keys. This is due to the fact that they are the only dealers of certain models of cars and have high overheads. There are numerous professional car locksmiths that offer the same service but at lower costs. If you're unsure whether your car is equipped with chips, you can inquire with your local auto locksmith or dealer. They'll be able to tell whether your vehicle has a transponder chip and also provide you with an estimate of the cost to purchase new keys. It is important to select an auto locksmith that is reputable and has experience with your car model, regardless of whether you opt for the transponder that is less expensive or the more expensive keys that are not transponder-compatible. Laser-Cut Keys Some modern cars have keys with more advanced designs called a laser cut key or sidewinder key. These keys are cut by a locksmith or dealership and come with a computer chip programmed in the keys. Although these keys are more expensive than conventional keys, they also come with more security features. This is the reason why they're a better investment for those looking to avoid car theft. Unlike regular two-sided keys, laser-cut keys are cut in the center of the key only. These cuts are more precise and difficult to duplicate than standard notches on standard key blades. They are also harder to detect and are a great protection against thieves who might be. To make a key that is laser-cut, the locksmith or dealer utilizes a milling machine that is specifically designed for this purpose. The machines utilize a bit that is shaped like a drill, to slowly strip the metal from the key. They can remove exactly the amount of metal required for a particular key, allowing them to have an extremely high level of precision. This makes it harder for thieves to make their own duplicate. Laser-cut keys are more secure than conventional keys since they are not able to unlock other cars using the same key lock. When a regular key is put into the vehicle, it emits a signal that enables the vehicle to recognize it. This is why the engine will refuse to start when it detects an unidentified key. However, laser-cut keys come with built-in transponders that are associated with a specific vehicle. This means that even if someone thief is able to cut and program a laser-cut keys but the engine will not start. To cut a laser-cut keys, a technician will need to have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle in order to locate the proper specifications for it on the CNC machine. The process could take anywhere from 15 minutes to several hours, depending on the model and make of the vehicle in question. Once the correct specifications are entered, a laser-cut key will be ready for programming by the locksmith or dealership. Dealerships The process of replacing your car keys through the dealership can be the most expensive option however, it is usually necessary. It is often covered by your insurance plan or warranty. It is advisable to check with your insurance company to determine if replacement keys are covered by the policy. It is also a great idea to have any damaged keys that are stolen, lost, or damaged deprogrammed by the dealer, since this will stop anyone from using them again in the future. If you have an ordinary key fob, it might be the most affordable alternative to replace it at the dealership. If your key fob is not clonable and has a chip built-in, it may cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob can vary widely based on the model of your car and make. auto replacement key is best to speak with local locksmiths, mechanics or dealerships to get an accurate estimate. You can also save money by having your spare key cloned at the dealership. This can be cheaper than having it copied by a locksmith, however you'll need to make sure that your spare key is compatible with your car. It's essential to write down your VIN, whether you're having your car key replaced at a dealership or by locksmith. This will help ensure that the replacement key is the correct fit and will be compatible with your vehicle. You can find your VIN in your owner's manual, on your dashboard, in the corner of your windshield or on the front of your engine block. In the past, it wasn't an issue to lose the key to your car. However, the advancements in technology in modern automobiles has made it more difficult to replace keys, which can be very costly. It's best to be prepared with an extra key on hand or knowing what options you have for replacing your car keys in the event they are stolen or lost.