Cost of Car Key Replacement
Losing your car keys can be an immense hassle and could be costly to replace. Depending on the kind of key you have, the price will differ.
Contacting a locksmith or dealer for an estimate is the best method to determine how much it will be to replace the key. Below is a list of the factors that can impact the price.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, sometimes referred to as chip keys, have an electronic micro-chip built into the keyhead. When the chip is placed in the cylinder for ignition and it sends a coded message to immobilizer of the vehicle. The code is matched to a unique ID number that is connected to the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a vehicle because it is not able to be started without the proper code.
The motivation behind the creation of this type of key was to make it more difficult for thieves to wire vehicles. Transponder keys require an unique code to be activated. These unique codes are difficult to duplicate using standard tools and must be copied by an auto locksmith.
Transponder keys are more expensive than bladed traditional keys. This cost is worth it when you consider the security advantages of this type of key.
Think about how important security is for you before you decide to get transponders. Consider your budget and lifestyle before deciding if the cost is worth it.
Car dealerships often charge a fee for the replacement of car keys. This is due to the fact that they are the exclusive dealers of certain car models and have large overheads. Fortunately, there are many other professional car locksmiths who offer the same quality service for less.
If you're unsure whether your car is equipped with chips, you can consult your local dealer or auto locksmith. They can tell you if your car has a transponder chip, and provide an estimate of the cost for an entirely new key. If you decide to go with the lower-cost non-transponder key or more expensive transponder keys, it's important to find a reputable auto locksmith with expertise working with your particular model of car.
Laser-Cut Keys
Some modern cars have keys with more advanced designs that is known as a laser cut key or sidewinder key. These keys are cut by a locksmith or dealership and have an embedded computer chip in them. These keys are more expensive, yet they offer better security. This is why they are regarded as a better investment for those who want to prevent car theft.
In contrast to regular two-sided keys laser-cut keys are cut in the center of the key only. 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 harder to detect, making them an effective deterrent to thieves.
To make a laser-cut key, the locksmith or dealer utilizes an exclusive milling machine. These machines use a bit that resembles an ax to slowly remove the key's metal. They can take out the exact amount of metal required for a particular key and provide an extremely high level of accuracy which makes it difficult for a criminal to make their own copy.
Another reason why laser-cut keys are more secure than traditional keys is because they can't be used to unlock other similar vehicles as they can with standard key locks. When a normal car key is used, it sends a signal the vehicle which allows it to recognize it. The engine will not begin in the event that the key isn't recognized. However, laser-cut keys come with built-in transponders that are registered to a specific car. This means that if a thief is able to program and cut a laser-cutted key, the engine won't start.
To cut a laser-cut keys the technician needs to have the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle to retrieve the appropriate specs for it in the CNC machine. This process can last between 15 minutes to a few days depending on the model and make of the vehicle. Once the correct specifications have been entered, the laser-cut key is now ready to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
Dealerships
The dealership is the most expensive but it is often the best alternative to replace your keys to your car. The positive side is that a lot of times it can be covered by insurance or your warranty. Check with your auto insurer to ensure that the replacement of keys is covered in the policy. It is also an excellent idea to have any stolen, lost or damaged keys deprogrammed at the dealership, since this will ensure that no one will be able to make use of them in the future.
If you have a standard key fob it could be the most affordable option to replace it at the dealership. However, if your fob has a built-in chip and can't be cloned it is likely to cost more money to have it replaced at the dealership or through locksmiths. The cost of a key fob could differ greatly based on the model and make of your car, therefore it's best to consult with local locksmiths, dealers, or mechanics for an accurate price estimate.
Another method to cut costs is by bringing your spare key with you to the dealership and having it copied there. It is cheaper to have it copied at the dealership than through a locksmith. However, you will be sure to ensure that the spare key is compatible with your vehicle.
Whether you're replacing your car key at the dealership or using locksmiths, it's essential to take the time to record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will help to ensure that the replacement key is a good 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 or 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 not a major issue. However, the technology of modern cars has made it more difficult to replace them, and this could be extremely costly. key replacement for car cost to be prepared by carrying an extra key on hand or knowing what your options are for replacing your car keys in the event they are lost or stolen.