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Cost of Car Key Replacement Losing your car keys is a huge hassle and can be expensive to replace. The cost will vary based on the kind of car keys you are using. Asking a locksmith or dealer for an estimate is the best way to learn how much it will cost to replace keys. Below is a list of the elements that could affect the cost. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, sometimes referred to as chip keys, are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded within the keyhead. When the chip is placed into the cylinder of the ignition lock it transmits an encrypted message to the immobilizer on the car. The code is matched to a unique ID number that is linked to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle because it cannot be started without the code. The transponder key was developed to make it difficult for thieves to wire a vehicle. Before this technology came along it was quite easy for thieves to start vehicles by connecting two wires, a process called “hot wiring.” The transponder keys are so secure because they require a unique code to be activated. These codes are difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and must be duplicated only by an auto locksmith. Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional bladed keys. The extra cost is worth it when you take into consideration the security benefits of this type of key. Consider the importance of security for you prior to deciding to get transponders. Consider your budget and lifestyle to determine whether the additional expense is worth it for you. Car dealerships often charge a premium for car key replacement services. This is because they hold the exclusive rights to sell certain models of cars and have very high expenses. There are other car locksmiths that are professional and provide the same service for less money. If you are unsure if your car has a chip, you can inquire with your local auto locksmith or dealer. They will be able to tell you whether your vehicle has a transponder chip, and provide an estimate of the cost for new keys. It is important to select an auto locksmith that is reputable and has experience working on your car model, whether you opt for the transponder that is less expensive or the more expensive non-transponder keys. Laser-Cut Keys Certain newer cars use a more sophisticated key design called a sidewinder or laser cut keys. These keys require the services of a locksmith or car dealer to cut them and then program a computer chip in the key. These keys are more expensive, but they offer better security. This is why they are regarded as a better investment by those who wish to avoid car theft. Laser-cut keys differ from regular two-sided keys since they only have a cut in the middle. The cuts are more precise and a lot harder to duplicate than the typical notches found on regular key blades. They are also more difficult to detect which makes them a great security measure for thieves. A locksmith or dealer will employ a milling machine to create a key that is laser-cut. The machines utilize a bit that looks like an ax to slowly remove the key's metal. They can take out precisely the amount of metal needed for a specific key, allowing them to have an extremely high level of precision. This makes it difficult for thieves to cut their own duplicate. car key case replacement why keys made of lasers are more secure than traditional keys is because they can't be used to unlock other similar vehicles as they can with standard key locks. When a regular 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, which is tied to a specific vehicle. This means that if someone can cut and program a laser-cut key, the engine won't start. Technicians will require the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), of the vehicle, to locate the CNC machine's specifications to cut a laser-cutkey. This process can take anywhere from 15 minutes to several hours, depending on the make and model of the vehicle that is being considered. Once the correct specifications are entered, the laser-cut key is ready to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. Dealerships Finding a replacement for your car key at a dealership is the most expensive option, but it is often necessary. The good news is that many times it can be covered by insurance or your warranty. It is advisable to check with your auto insurance provider to see if key replacements are covered under 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, replacing it at a dealership may be the least costly option. However, if your fob is equipped with a chip and can't be cloned it is likely to cost more money to have it replaced at the dealership or through locksmiths. The cost of a keyfob can vary widely based on the model of your car and model. It is recommended to talk to local locksmiths, mechanics, or dealerships for a precise estimate. You can also save money by having your spare key cloned at the dealership. This is cheaper than having it cloned by a locksmith, however you'll need to make sure that your spare key is compatible with the vehicle you're using it. Whether you're replacing your car key at the dealership or through a locksmith, it's important to to note down your vehicle identification number (VIN). This will ensure that the replacement key fits correctly and is 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 the days of car keys being lost, it was no big deal. However, the technology of modern automobiles has made it more difficult to replace them, and this could be extremely costly. It is best to be prepared with an extra key in your car, or know what options you have for replacing your car keys in the event they get stolen or lost.