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Cost of Car Key Replacement It can be a huge hassle to lose your car keys and it can be costly to replace them. The cost will vary based on the kind of car keys you have. The best way to find out how much it will cost to replace the car key is to talk to an auto locksmith or a dealership. Below is a list of a few of the variables that could affect the cost. car key replacement cost , often called chip keys, are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded within the keyhead. The chip transmits an encrypted 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 attached to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle since it is not able to be started without the correct code. The reason for the development of this type of key was to make it more difficult for thieves to hot wire a vehicle. Transponder keys require a distinct code to activate. These unique codes are difficult to duplicate with regular tools and must be cloned by an auto locksmith. Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional bladed keys. However, this cost is often worth it in the end when taking into account the security benefits of this type of key. Consider how important security is for you before deciding to purchase transponders. Then consider your budget and lifestyle to decide whether the additional expense is worth it for you. Car dealerships typically charge a premium for car key replacement services. This is because they hold exclusive rights to sell specific models of cars and have high costs of operation. There are numerous professional car locksmiths that offer the same service for less rates. If you're unsure if your car has a chip, you can inquire with 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 of getting an upgrade. Whichever you choose, lower-cost non-transponder key or more expensive transponder key, it's important to find a reliable auto locksmith who has worked with your model of vehicle. Laser-Cut Keys Some newer cars use a more advanced key design called a laser cut key or sidewinder key. These keys require a locksmith or car dealership to cut them and then program the computer chip inside the key. These keys are more expensive, yet they offer more security. This is why they are considered a more beneficial investment for people who want to stop car theft. Laser-cut keys are different from regular two-sided keys since they have only a cut in the middle. These cuts are more precise and are much more difficult to duplicate than the typical notches that are found on standard key blades. They are also harder to pick and are a great security measure for thieves. To make a laser-cut key, a locksmith or dealer uses a special milling machine. The machines utilize a bit shaped like a drill to gradually strip the metal from the key. They can take out precisely the amount of metal required for a specific key, which gives them an extremely high level of precision. This makes it harder for thieves to cut their own copy. Laser-cut keys are also more secure than traditional keys because they can't be used to open other vehicles with the same key lock. When a normal car key is inserted it sends a signal to the vehicle, which allows it to recognize it. This is why the engine will refuse to start in the event of detecting an unidentified key. However, laser-cut keys have an embedded transponder that is registered to a specific vehicle. This means that if a burglar can program and cut a laser-cut key, the engine won't start. To cut a laser-cut keys technicians will need to have the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle in order to locate the proper specifications for it in the CNC machine. The process can take between 15 minutes to a few days, depending on the model and make of the vehicle. After the correct specifications have been entered, a laser-cut key can be programmed by the locksmith or dealer. Dealerships The dealership is the most expensive, but it is often the best option to replace your keys to your car. The positive side is that a lot of times, it will be covered by your warranty or insurance. Check with your auto insurer to make sure that the replacement of keys is covered in the policy. It is also recommended to get any stolen, lost or damaged keys deprogrammed at the dealership, as this will ensure that no one will be able to use them in the future. If you have a standard fob replacing it at a dealership may be the least costly option. If the key fob you have 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 can vary widely based on the car's model and make. 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 copied at the dealership. This is less expensive than having it copied by a locksmith, however you'll want to ensure that your spare key is compatible with the vehicle you're using it. Whether you're replacing your car key at the dealership or using a locksmith, it's important to to record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will help ensure that the key replacement is the correct fit and can be paired with your vehicle. You can locate 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 the days of car keys being lost, it was not a major issue. The technology of modern vehicles has made it more difficult to replace keys and can be costly. It's best to be prepared by carrying an extra key in your car, or know what your options are to replace your car keys in the event that they are lost or stolen.