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Cost of Car Key Replacement The loss of your car keys is an immense hassle and could be expensive to replace. Depending on the type of key you have, the price can vary. The best way to find out the price to replace keys to your car is to ask a locksmith or dealership. Here is a list of some of the factors which could affect the price. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, sometimes called chip keys, contain an electronic microchip that is embedded in the keyhead. When the chip is inserted in the ignition lock cylinder and it sends a coded 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 car because it cannot be started without the code. The transponder key was developed to make it harder for thieves to heat-wire a vehicle. Before the invention of this technology it was quite easy for thieves to start vehicles by connecting two wires using a technique called “hot wiring.” The transponder keys are so secure because they require a unique code to be activated. These unique codes are difficult to duplicate using standard tools, and must be copied by an auto locksmith. Transponder keys are more expensive than bladed traditional keys. However, this extra cost is usually worth it in the long run, especially when taking into account the security benefits of this type of key. If you're thinking of purchasing a transponder key, you must first determine how important security is to you. Consider your budget and lifestyle before deciding if the extra expense is worth it. Dealerships are charged a premium to replace keys for cars. This is due to the fact that they are the sole dealers for certain models of cars and have high expenses. There are other locksmiths for cars who offer the same quality service at lower prices. If you are unsure whether your car has chip, ask your local dealer or auto locksmith. They'll be able tell you whether or not your vehicle has a chip and also help determine the cost to purchase an upgrade. Whichever replacement key for car near me choose, less expensive non-transponder keys or the more expensive transponder key it's important to find a reliable auto locksmith that has experience working with your type of vehicle. Laser-Cut Keys Certain newer cars use a more sophisticated design for keys known as a sidewinder or laser cut key. These keys require a locksmith or car dealership to cut them and then program a computer chip in the key. While they are more expensive than traditional ones, they also offer more security features. This is why they are considered a better investment by those who wish to avoid car theft. In contrast to regular two-sided keys laser-cut keys have cuts in the center of the key only. These cuts are more precise and tougher to duplicate than the standard notches on regular blades. They are also difficult to discern and are a great security measure for thieves. To make a key that is laser-cut, the locksmith or dealer utilizes a milling machine that is specifically designed for this purpose. These machines use a bit that resembles drills to slowly strip away the key's metal. They can take out the exact amount of metal required for the key in question that gives them an extremely high level of accuracy that makes it more difficult for thieves to make their own copy. Laser-cut keys are more secure than conventional keys since they are not able to open other vehicles with the same key lock. When a normal car key is inserted it sends a signal to the vehicle that lets it recognize it. The engine will not begin when the key isn't recognized. However, laser-cut keys come with built-in transponders that are registered to a specific vehicle. This means that if a thief can cut and program a laser-cut key, the engine will not start. To cut a laser-cut key technicians will need to have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle to find the right specifications for it on the CNC machine. The process could take anywhere between 15 minutes and a few hours depending on the make and model of the vehicle that is being considered. Once the correct specifications have been entered the key cut by laser can be programmed by the locksmith or dealer. Dealerships The process of replacing your car keys at the dealership might be the most expensive option however it is often the only option. The positive side is that a lot of times, it will be covered by your warranty or insurance. It is best to consult with your insurance company to determine if key replacements are covered under the policy. It's also a good idea to have any damaged keys, stolen or lost removed by the dealer to prevent anyone from using them again in the future. If you have a standard key fob it might be the most affordable option to replace it at the dealership. If your key fob is not clonable and has a built in chip, it may cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob could vary greatly depending on the model and make of your vehicle, so it's best to consult with local locksmiths, dealers, or mechanics to get an accurate price estimate. Another method to cut costs is to take your spare key with you to the dealership and having it copied there. It can be cheaper to have it cloned at the dealership than through locksmith. However, you will need to ensure that your spare key works with your vehicle. If you're replacing your vehicle key at the dealership or through a locksmith, it's crucial to to note down your vehicle identification number (VIN). This will help to ensure that the key replacement is of the correct size and is compatible with your vehicle. You should be able to find your VIN on the dashboard of your car on the side of the windshield, in the corner of the windshield, on the front of the engine block or in the owner's manual. In the past, it was not an issue to lose the key to your car. The advancements in technology in modern cars has made it more difficult to replace keys, and this can be costly. Always keep a spare car key at hand or know your options in the event that your keys get lost or stolen.