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auto car key replacement of Car Key Replacement Losing your car keys can be an enormous hassle and can be expensive to replace. Based on the kind of key you have, the costs can differ. The best way to find out the cost to replace a car key is to talk to the locksmith or dealer. Below is a list of the elements that could influence the price. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, also referred to as chip keys, have an electronic microchip that is embedded in the keyhead. When the chip is inserted into the cylinder of the ignition lock, it sends a coded message to immobilizer on the car. This code matches an ID number associated with the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a vehicle since it isn't able to be started without the code. This type of key was designed to make it harder for thieves to heat-wire vehicles. Before this technology was invented it was easy for thieves to open vehicles by connecting two wires, a process known as “hot wiring.” The transponder keys are so secure because they require a unique code in order to be activated. They are difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and should be copied 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 advantages of this type of key. Consider the importance of security for you prior to deciding to purchase transponders. Take into consideration your budget and lifestyle to determine whether the additional expense is worth it for you. Dealerships charge a fee to replace car keys. This is due to the fact that they are the exclusive dealers of certain car models and have huge expenses. There are many professional locksmiths for cars that provide the same service but at lower rates. If you aren't sure whether your car has a chip, you can inquire with your local dealer or auto locksmith. They will be able to tell you whether or not your vehicle is chip-equipped and can also help you determine the cost of purchasing a new one. If you decide to go with the less expensive non-transponder keys or the more expensive transponder key, it's essential to find a reputable auto locksmith with expertise working with your particular model of vehicle. Laser-Cut Keys Some newer cars use the most advanced key design called laser cut keys or sidewinder key. These keys are made by a locksmith or dealer and have an embedded computer chip in the keys. Although these keys are more expensive than conventional ones, they also offer superior security features. This is why they are considered a better investment for those who wish to avoid 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 difficult to duplicate than standard notches on regular key blades. They are also more difficult to detect, making them a better deterrent for thieves. A locksmith or dealer will use a milling machine to create a key that is laser-cut. These machines employ a tool that resembles an ax to slowly remove the key's metal. They can remove precisely the amount of metal needed for a particular key, which gives them an extremely high level of precision. This makes it harder for a thief cut their own copy. Another reason why keys that are laser-cut are more secure than conventional keys is that they aren't able to be used to unlock similar vehicles as they can use regular keys. When a standard key is inserted into the vehicle, it emits an indication that allows the vehicle to recognize it. The engine won't start when the key isn't recognized. However, laser-cut keys come with built-in transponders that are registered to a specific car. 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 technicians will need to have the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle to retrieve the appropriate specs for it in the CNC machine. This process can last between 15 minutes to a few days based on the model and make of the vehicle. Once the correct specifications have been entered the key cut by laser is now ready to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. Dealerships The process of replacing your car keys through the dealership can be the most expensive option, however it is often the only option. The good news is that a lot of times, it is covered by insurance or your warranty. Contact your insurance company to make sure that the replacement of keys is covered in the policy. It's also a good idea to get any damaged, lost or stolen keys deprogrammed by your dealer, as this will prevent anyone from using them in the future. If you have a standard fob replacing it at a dealer could be the cheapest option. If your key fob has a built-in chip and can't be cloned, it will likely cost more money to have it replaced at the dealership or by a locksmith. The cost of a key fob can vary greatly depending on the make and model of your car, therefore it is recommended to speak with local dealerships, locksmiths or mechanics to get an accurate cost estimate. You can also save money by having your spare key cloned at the dealership. It can be cheaper to have it cloned at the dealership than through locksmith. However, you'll need to ensure that the spare key is compatible with your vehicle. If you're replacing your vehicle key at the dealership or through a locksmith, it's crucial to make sure you record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will help ensure that the key replacement is of the correct size and will be compatible with your vehicle. You should be able to find your VIN on the dashboard of your vehicle, on the side of the windshield, in the corner of the windshield and on the side 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 technology of modern vehicles has made it harder to replace keys and can be costly. It's best to be prepared by having an extra key in your car, or know what your options are for replacing your car keys in the event they are stolen or lost.