Cost of Car Key Replacement
Losing your car keys is an immense hassle and could be costly to replace. The cost can be different based on the kind of car keys you are using.
The best way to find out how much it will cost to replace a car key is to ask the locksmith or dealer. Below is a list of the factors that can affect the price.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, often called chip keys, have an electronic micro-chip built into the keyhead. When the chip is placed in the cylinder for ignition, it sends an encrypted message to the immobilizer on the car. The code is matched to a unique ID number that is attached to the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a car since it isn't able to be started without the code.
The motivation behind the creation of this type of key was to make it more difficult for thieves to hot wire vehicles. Transponder keys require a distinct code to be activated. These unique codes are difficult to duplicate using standard tools and must be copied by an auto locksmith.
This means that the transponder key is more expensive than traditional bladed keys. However, this cost is often worth it in the long run when taking into account the security benefits of this type of key.
If you're thinking of purchasing a transponder key, you must first decide on the importance of security to you. Take into consideration your budget and your lifestyle before deciding if the additional cost is worth it.
Car dealerships typically charge a premium for key replacement services for cars. This is due to the fact that they are the sole dealers for certain car models and have large overheads. There are a variety of professional car locksmiths that offer the same service at lower rates.
If you aren't sure whether your car is equipped with a chip, you can inquire with your local dealer or auto locksmith. They can tell you if your car has a transponder chip and also provide an estimate of the cost to get new keys. Whichever you choose, less expensive non-transponder keys or the more expensive transponder key, it is essential to find a reliable auto locksmith that has experience working with your type of vehicle.
Laser-Cut Keys
Certain cars with modern technology have the most advanced key design called a laser cut key or sidewinder key. Keys are cut by a locksmith or dealership and come with an embedded computer chip in the keys. They are more expensive, yet they offer more security. cost of replacement car key is why they're considered a better investment for those who are looking to protect their car from theft.
Laser-cut keys differ from regular two-sided keys since they only have a cut in the middle. These cuts are more precise and harder to duplicate than standard notches on standard key blades. They are also difficult to detect and are a great deterrent for would-be thieves.
To create a laser-cut key, a locksmith or dealer uses a milling machine that is specifically designed for this purpose. These machines use a bit shaped like a drill to slowly strip the metal from the key. They can remove the exact amount of metal needed to make a particular key that gives them a high level of precision which makes it difficult for thieves to make their own copy.
Laser-cut keys can also be more secure than conventional keys because they can't be used to open other vehicles with the same key lock. When a regular car key is inserted it sends a signal to the vehicle which lets it recognize it. This is the reason why the engine won't start if it detects an unrecognized key. Laser-cut keys have a built-in transponder that's tied to a specific vehicle. This means that if a thief can program and cut a laser-cutted key, the engine will not start.
To cut a laser-cut keys the technician needs to have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle in order to retrieve the appropriate specs for it on the CNC machine. The process can take between 15 minutes to a few days depending on the model and brand of the vehicle. After the correct specifications have been completed, a laser-cut key can be programmed by the locksmith or dealer.
Dealerships
Finding a replacement for your car key at the dealership might be the most expensive option but it is often necessary. The good news is that a lot of times, it is covered by your warranty or insurance. It is best to consult with your auto insurance provider to see if key replacements are covered by the policy. It is also a good idea to get any stolen, lost, or damaged keys deprogrammed by the dealership, since this will ensure that no one can use them in the future.
If you have a standard key fob it might be the cheapest option to replace it at the dealership. If your key fob is not capable of cloning and has an embedded chip, it may cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob may vary widely based on the make and model of your vehicle, so it's recommended to talk to local dealerships, locksmiths or mechanics for a precise cost estimate.
Another way to cut costs is to take your spare key to the dealership and having it copied there. It can be cheaper to have it cloned at the dealership than by locksmith. However, you'll want to make sure that your spare key works with your vehicle.
Whether you're replacing your car key at the dealership or through locksmiths, it's essential to to note down your vehicle identification number (VIN). This will help to ensure that the new key is the correct fit and is compatible with your vehicle. You will be able to locate your VIN on the dashboard of your vehicle, on the windshield in the corner of the windshield, on the front of the engine block, or in the owner's manual.
In the past the past, losing a car key was no big deal. However, the advancements in technology in modern vehicles has made it much more difficult to replace keys, and this can be quite expensive. It is recommended to always keep a spare car key at hand or know your options in the event that your keys are stolen or lost.