Cost of Car Key Replacement
Losing your car keys is an enormous hassle and can be expensive to replace. Based on the type of key you have, the price will differ.
The best way to find out the price to replace keys to your car is to speak with a locksmith or dealership. Here is a list that includes several factors that can influence the cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are also referred as chip keys. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the head of the key. The chip sends out an encoded signal to the car's immobilizer when it is inserted into the ignition lock cylinder. The code is matched to an ID number attached to the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a vehicle since it isn't able to be started without the code.
The main reason behind the development of this type of key was to make it harder for thieves to hot wire a vehicle. Before this technology came along it was easy for thieves to start vehicles by connecting two wires in a process known as "hot wiring." The transponder keys are so secure because they require a specific code to be activated. These codes are difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and should be cloned only by an auto locksmith.
In the end, the transponder key is more expensive than traditional bladed keys. This cost is worth it when you consider the security advantages of this type of key.
If you're thinking about purchasing a transponder key, you must first consider the importance of security to you. Consider your budget and lifestyle to decide whether or not the cost is worth it to you.
Dealerships charge a fee to replace car keys. This is because they have the exclusive right to sell certain models of cars and have high costs of operation. There are a variety of professional locksmiths for cars that provide the same service but at lower costs.
If you're not sure if your car is equipped with a transponder chip, check with your local dealer or an auto locksmith. They'll be able to tell whether your car is equipped with a transponder chip and also give you an estimate of the cost for new keys. Whichever you choose, lower-cost non-transponder key or more expensive transponder key it's important to find a reliable auto locksmith that has worked with your model of car.
Laser-Cut Keys
Some modern cars have a more advanced key design, known as a laser cut key or sidewinder key. These keys are cut by a locksmith or dealership and come with an embedded computer chip in them. While they are more expensive than standard ones, they also offer higher security features. This is why they're the best choice for those who are trying to prevent car theft.
Unlike regular two-sided keys, laser-cut keys have cuts in the center of the key only. These cuts are more precise and tougher to duplicate than the standard notches on regular blades. They are also more difficult to pick which makes them a great security measure for thieves.
To make a key that is laser-cut, the locksmith or dealer utilizes a special milling machine. These machines use a bit shaped like a drill to slowly remove the metal from the key. They can take out the exact amount of metal needed for the key in question that gives them an extremely high level of accuracy which makes it difficult for thieves to make their own duplicate.
Laser-cut keys can also be more secure than traditional ones because they can't be used to unlock other cars using the same key lock. When a standard car key is inserted it sends a signal the vehicle which lets it recognize it. The engine will not start when the key isn't recognized. However, laser-cut keys have built-in transponders that are registered to a specific vehicle. This means that even if a burglar is able to cut and program a laser-cut keys but the engine will not start.
A technician will require the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), of the vehicle, in order to retrieve the CNC machine's specifications for cutting a laser-cutkey. The process can range from 15 minutes to a few hours depending on the model and make of the vehicle being examined. After the correct specifications have been entered, a laser-cut keys 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 car keys. It is typically covered by your insurance plan or warranty. Contact your insurance company to ensure that key replacement is included in the policy. It is also a great idea to have any damaged keys, stolen or lost deprogrammed by your dealer, to prevent anyone from using them in the future.
If you have a standard key fob, replacing it at a dealership may be the least costly option. However, if your key fob has a chip built in and isn't clonable it is likely to cost more to get it replaced at the dealership or through an locksmith. The price of a key fob can vary widely depending on the car's model and make. It is best to contact local locksmiths, mechanics, or dealerships to get an accurate estimate.
You can also save money by having your spare key cloned at the dealership. This is less expensive than having it cloned by a locksmith, but you'll need to make sure that your spare key is compatible with the vehicle you're using it.
If you're replacing your vehicle key at the dealership or using a locksmith, it's crucial to make sure you record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will help ensure that the new key is the correct fit and will be compatible with your vehicle. You can locate your VIN in the owner's manual on your dashboard, in the corner of your windshield, or on the front of your engine block.
In the past, it wasn't an issue to lose the key to your car. However, auto car key replacement advanced technology of modern automobiles has made it much more difficult to replace keys, which can be very expensive. It's best to be prepared with an extra key in your car or knowing what options you have for replacing your car keys in the event they get stolen or lost.