Cost of Car Key Replacement It can be a huge trouble to lose your car keys, and costly to replace them. The cost can be different based on the type of key you have. The best method to determine the cost to replace the car key is to talk to the locksmith or dealer. Here is a list of some of the factors which can affect the cost. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, also called chip keys, contain an electronic microchip embedded within the keyhead. When the chip is placed into the cylinder of the ignition lock, it sends a coded message to immobilizer of the vehicle. The code is matched to a unique ID number that is attached to the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a vehicle since it is not able to be started without the proper code. This kind of key was created to make it difficult for thieves to hot-wire a vehicle. Transponder keys require a distinct code in order to activate. https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/honda-car-key-replacements-near-me/ are very difficult to duplicate using standard tools and must be cloned by an auto locksmith. In the end, the transponder key is more expensive than conventional bladed keys. The extra cost is worth it when you take into consideration the security advantages of this type key. Think about how important security is for you before you decide to get transponders. Take into consideration your budget and lifestyle to decide whether or not the expense is worth it for you. Dealerships are charged a premium to replace car keys. This is because they have exclusive rights to sell certain models of cars and have high costs of operation. Fortunately, there are many other car locksmiths that are professional and offer the same quality service for less money. If you're not sure if your vehicle has a transponder chip, you can check with your local dealer or auto locksmith. They will be able to tell you whether or not your vehicle is chip-equipped and will also help determine the cost of getting an upgrade. 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 are made by a locksmith or dealership and have an embedded computer chip in the keys. These keys are more expensive, yet they offer better 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 key because they are only cut in the middle. These cuts are more precise and harder to duplicate than standard notches on regular key blades. They are also harder to pick and therefore an effective deterrent to thieves. To make a laser-cut key, a locksmith or dealer uses an exclusive milling machine. These machines employ a tool shaped like a drill to slowly strip the metal from the key. They can remove precisely the amount of metal needed for a particular key that gives them the highest level of precision that makes it more difficult for a criminal to make their own copy. Another reason why keys that are laser-cut are more secure than traditional keys is that they aren't able to be used to unlock similar vehicles like they would with regular key locks. When a regular car key is inserted, it sends a signal to the vehicle that lets it 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 associated with a specific vehicle. This means that if someone is able to cut and program a laser-cut key, the engine will not start. To cut a laser-cut key, a technician 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 range between 15 minutes to a few hours depending on the model and make of the vehicle that is being considered. Once the correct specifications are entered, a laser-cut key will be ready for programming by the locksmith or dealership. Dealerships The dealership is the most expensive, however, it is the most often needed alternative to replace your keys to your car. The positive side is that a lot of times it can be covered by your warranty or insurance. Check with your auto insurer to ensure that key replacement is included in the policy. It is also a good idea to have any lost, stolen or damaged keys deprogrammed at the dealership, as this will ensure that no one else will be able to use them in the future. If you have an ordinary key fob, it may be the least expensive option to replace it at the dealership. If your key fob isn't capable of cloning and has a chip built-in, it may cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob can differ greatly based on the make and model of your car, so it's best to consult with local locksmiths, dealers, or mechanics to get an accurate cost estimate. Another option to save money is by bringing your spare key to the dealership and having it cloned there. This can be cheaper than having it copied by a locksmith, but you'll want to ensure that your spare key is compatible with your car. If you're replacing your car key at the dealership or using a locksmith, it's important to to note down your vehicle identification number (VIN). This will ensure that your replacement key fits correctly and is paired with your vehicle. You can locate your VIN on the dashboard of your vehicle or on the windshield at the corner of the windshield, on the front of the engine block, or in the owner's manual. In the past the days of car keys being lost, it was no big deal. However, the advanced technology of modern automobiles has made it more difficult to replace keys, and this can be very costly. It is best to be prepared by having an extra key in your car or knowing what your options are for replacing your car keys in the event that they get stolen or lost.