Cost of Car Key Replacement The loss of your car keys is an immense hassle and could be expensive to replace. Based on the kind of keys you have, the costs can differ. Contacting a locksmith or dealer for an estimate is the best way to learn how much it will be to replace a key. Here is a list of some of the factors which can influence the cost. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, sometimes called chip keys, are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded within the keyhead. The chip sends out an encoded signal to the car's immobilizer when it is placed inside the ignition lock cylinder. This code matches a special ID number that is attached to the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a vehicle because it cannot be started without a valid code. The transponder key was created to make it difficult for thieves to hot-wire a vehicle. Transponder keys require a distinct code to be activated. These unique codes are difficult to duplicate using regular tools and must be copied by an auto locksmith. This means that the transponder key is more expensive than conventional bladed keys. However, this cost is often worth it in the long run when considering the security advantages that come with this kind of key. If you're thinking of purchasing a transponder key, you must first consider the importance of security to you. Think about your budget and lifestyle before deciding if the expense is worth it. Dealerships charge a fee to replace keys for cars. It is because they are the exclusive dealers of certain models of cars and have large costs of operation. However, there are other professional car locksmiths who provide the same service for less. If you are unsure whether your car has chips, you can ask your local dealer or auto locksmith. https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-key-replacements-near-me/ will be able to tell you whether your car is equipped with an electronic transponder and give you an estimate of the cost for an entirely new key. Whether you opt for the lower-cost non-transponder key or more expensive transponder key it's important to find a reputable auto locksmith with experience working with your type of vehicle. Laser-Cut Keys Some modern cars have a more advanced key design called a laser cut key or sidewinder key. These keys are cut by a locksmith or dealer and have an embedded computer chip in the keys. While these keys are more expensive than standard keys, they do come with superior security features. This is the reason why they're the best choice for those looking to avoid car theft. Laser-cut keys are different from standard two-sided keys because they only have a cut in the middle. These cuts are much more precise and are far more difficult to duplicate than standard notches that are found on standard key blades. They are also more difficult to pick and therefore more effective in deterring thieves. A locksmith or dealer would make use of a milling device to create a laser-cut key. The machines utilize a bit shaped like a drill to slowly strip the metal from the key. They can remove the exact amount of metal needed for a specific key that gives them a high level of precision which makes it harder for a thief to cut their own duplicate. Another reason why keys made of lasers are more secure than conventional keys is because they can't be used to unlock similar vehicles like they would with standard key locks. When a standard car key is inserted it sends a signal the vehicle, which allows it to recognize it. The engine won't start when the key isn't recognized. Laser-cut keys, however, come with a transponder, which is associated with a specific vehicle. This means that even if a thief manages to cut and program a laser-cut key, the engine will still not start. To cut a key laser-cut the technician needs to have the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle to find the right specifications for it in the CNC machine. The process could take anywhere between 15 minutes to a few hours depending on the model and make of the vehicle in question. Once the correct specifications are entered, a laser-cut key will be ready for programming by the locksmith or dealer. Dealerships The process of replacing your car keys at the dealership might be the most expensive option, but it is often necessary. The good news is that many times, it is covered by your warranty or insurance. Check with your auto insurer to confirm that the replacement of keys is covered in the policy. It's also a good idea to have any damaged keys that are stolen, lost, or damaged removed by the dealer as this will prevent anyone from using them again in the future. If you have a standard key fob it could be the cheapest option to replace it at the dealership. If your key fob is equipped with a chip and cannot be duplicated it's likely to cost more money to have it replaced at the dealership or through locksmiths. The cost of a key fob can differ greatly based on the model and brand of your car, so it's best to consult with local locksmiths, dealers, or mechanics for an accurate cost estimate. You can also save money by having your spare key cloned at the dealership. It is cheaper to have it copied at the dealership than through a locksmith. However, you'll want to make sure that your spare key works with your vehicle. If you're replacing your car key at the dealership or with locksmiths, it's essential to make sure you write down your vehicle identification number (VIN). This will ensure that the replacement key fits correctly and can be connected to your vehicle. You can find 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. However, the technology of modern cars has made it much more difficult to replace them, and this can be very expensive. Always keep an extra car key on hand or know your options in case your keys are lost or stolen.