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Cost of Car Key Replacement It can be a huge trouble to lose your car keys, and costly to replace them. The cost will vary based on the type you are using. A locksmith or dealer to provide an estimate is the best way to learn how much it will be to replace a key. Here is a list that outlines the various factors that can affect the cost. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are also referred to as chip keys. They are equipped with the microchip which is embedded in the head of the key. The chip transmits an encoded signal to the immobilizer of the car when it is placed inside the ignition lock cylinder. This code is in line with an ID number associated with the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle since it cannot 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 vehicles. Transponder keys require an unique code to be activated. These unique codes are very 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 worthwhile when you consider the security benefits of this type key. If you're considering getting a transponder key, first consider the importance of security to you. Take into consideration your budget and your lifestyle before deciding if the extra cost is worth it. Car dealerships often charge a premium for key replacement services for cars. This is because they hold the exclusive rights to sell certain models of cars and have high overheads. There are numerous professional locksmiths for cars that provide the same service but at lower cost. If you're unsure whether your car is equipped with a transponder chip, you can inquire with your local dealer or auto locksmith. They'll be able tell you whether or not your car has a chip and can also help you determine the cost to purchase an upgrade. It is essential to select an auto locksmith that is reputable and has experience with your car model, whether you opt for a cheaper transponder or the more expensive keys that are not transponder-compatible. Laser-Cut Keys Some newer vehicles use keys with more sophisticated designs known as a sidewinder or laser cut keys. These keys are made by a locksmith or dealer and include an embedded computer chip the keys. Although they are more expensive than traditional ones, they also offer more security features. automotive car key replacement is why they are regarded as a more beneficial investment for people who want to stop car theft. Unlike regular two-sided keys, laser-cut keys have cuts in the center of the key only. These cuts are more precise and harder to duplicate than the standard notches on regular key blades. They are also difficult to discern and are a great security measure for thieves. A locksmith or dealer would make use of a milling device to create a laser-cut key. The machines utilize a bit designed like a drill to gradually strip the metal from the key. They can remove precisely the amount of metal required to make a key, which gives them an extremely high level of precision. This makes it more difficult for thieves to cut their own copy. Laser-cut keys can also be more secure than conventional keys because they cannot be used to open other cars with the same lock. When a standard car key is inserted, it sends a signal the vehicle, which allows it to recognize it. The engine will not start in the event that the key isn't recognized. Laser-cut keys have a built in transponder that is registered to a particular vehicle. This means that if a burglar is able to program and cut a laser-cut key, the engine won't start. To cut a laser-cut keys, a technician will need to have the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle to retrieve the appropriate specs for the CNC machine. The process could take anywhere between 15 minutes to a few hours based on the model and make of the vehicle that is being considered. Once the correct specifications are entered the key cut by laser is ready to be programmed by the locksmith or dealer. Dealerships Getting your car key replacement through the dealership can be the most expensive option, however, it is usually necessary. The good news is that a lot of times, it will be covered by insurance or your warranty. You should check with your insurance company to determine if replacement keys are covered by the policy. It's also a good idea to get any lost, stolen or damaged keys deprogrammed by the dealership, as this will ensure that no one will be able to make use of them in the future. If you have a standard key fob, it could be the most affordable option to get it replaced at the dealership. If your key fob isn't replicable and comes with a built in chip it could cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob can vary widely based on the model and brand of your vehicle, so it's recommended to talk to local dealerships, locksmiths or mechanics to get an accurate price estimate. Another way to cut costs is to bring your spare key with you to the dealer and having it cloned there. It is cheaper to have it cloned at the dealership rather than through a locksmith. However, you'll want to make sure that your spare key works with your vehicle. It's important that you record your VIN whether you're having your car keys replaced at a dealership or by a locksmith. This will ensure that the replacement key is properly fitted and is paired with your vehicle. You will be able to locate your VIN on the dashboard of your car, on the windshield in the corner of the windshield or on the front of the engine block, or in the owner's manual. In the past, it wasn't an issue to lose the key to your car. However, the technology of modern automobiles has made it more difficult to replace them, and this could be extremely expensive. Always keep an extra car key on hand or know your options in the event that your keys get lost or stolen.