Cost of Car Key Replacement
Losing your car keys is an immense hassle and could be costly to replace. Depending on the kind of keys you have, the price can vary.
Asking a locksmith or dealer for an estimate is the best method to determine how much it will be to replace the key. Here is a list of several factors that could affect the price.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, sometimes referred to as chip keys, are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded within the keyhead. The chip sends out a coded signal to the immobilizer of the car when it is inserted into the ignition lock cylinder. This code matches a special ID number that is connected to the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a vehicle because it can't be started without the code.
The main reason behind the development of this type of key was to make it more difficult for thieves to hot wire vehicles. Before the invention of this technology it was easy for thieves to start cars by connecting two wires in a process known as "hot wiring." Transponder keys are secure because they require a specific code to be activated. These unique codes are very difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and must be copied by an auto locksmith.
As a result, the transponder key is more expensive than traditional bladed keys. This extra cost is worth it if you consider the security benefits of this type key.
Consider the importance of security for you before deciding to get transponders. Then consider your budget and lifestyle to decide whether or not the added expense is worth it for you.
Dealerships charge a fee to replace car keys. This is because they have the exclusive rights to sell certain models of cars and have very high costs of operation. There are numerous professional locksmiths for cars that provide the same service at lower rates.
If you aren't sure if your car has chip, consult your local dealer or auto locksmith. They will be able to inform you if your vehicle has a chip and also help determine the cost of getting an upgrade. It's important to choose an auto locksmith that is reputable and has experience with your vehicle model, whether you opt for the cheaper transponder or the more expensive keys that are not transponder-compatible.
Laser-Cut Keys
Certain newer cars use a more sophisticated design for keys known as a sidewinder or laser cut keys. These keys are cut by a locksmith or dealership and have a computer chip programmed in them. They're more expensive, yet they offer greater security. This is why they're the best choice for those who are looking to protect their car from theft.
Laser-cut keys differ from standard two-sided keys because they are only cut in the middle. These cuts are more precise and a lot harder to duplicate than the standard notches found on regular key blades. They are also harder to detect, making them an effective deterrent to thieves.
A locksmith or dealer would make use of a milling device to make a laser-cutted key. The machines utilize a bit that looks like drills to slowly strip away the key's metal. They can remove precisely the amount of metal required for the key in question and provide the highest level of precision which makes it harder for thieves to make their own copy.
Laser-cut keys are also more secure than traditional keys because they cannot be used to open other cars with the same key lock. When automotive key replacement is inserted it sends a signal to the vehicle that allows it to recognize it. This is why the engine will refuse to start when it detects an unidentified key. However, laser-cut keys come with built-in transponders that are registered to a specific vehicle. This means that even if a thief is able to cut and program a laser-cut keys but 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 find the right specifications for it on the CNC machine. This process can take anywhere between 15 minutes to a few hours depending on the make and model of the vehicle in question. After the correct specifications have been entered, a laser-cut key is ready to be programmed by the locksmith or dealership.
Dealerships
Finding a replacement for your car key at a dealership is the most expensive option however it is often the only option. It is typically covered by your insurance or warranty. You should check with your auto insurance provider to see if key replacements are covered by the policy. It is also a great idea to get any damaged, lost or stolen keys deprogrammed by your dealer, since this will stop anyone from using them in the future.
If you have a standard fob, replacing it by a dealership could be the most affordable option. If your key fob is not capable of cloning and has an embedded chip it could cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob can vary greatly depending on the model and make of your car, therefore it's recommended to talk to 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 by the dealership rather than through locksmith. However, you will be sure to ensure that the spare key is compatible with your vehicle.
If you're replacing your car key at the dealership or through a locksmith, it's crucial to to record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will help ensure that the new key is of the correct size and will be compatible with your vehicle. You can find your VIN in the owner's manual, on your dashboard or in the corner of your windshield, or on the front of your engine block.
In the past the past, losing a car key was not a big issue. However, the technology of modern automobiles has made it more difficult to replace keys, which could be extremely costly. It is recommended to always keep a spare car key at and ready in the event that your keys get stolen or lost.