Cost of Car Key Replacement
It can be a huge trouble to lose your car keys, and it can be costly to replace keys. Based on the kind of key you have, the price will vary.
A locksmith or dealer for an estimate is the best way to learn how much it will cost to replace the key. Below is a list of a few of the factors that can affect the cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are also referred as chip keys. They contain the microchip which is embedded into the head of the key. When the chip is inserted in the ignition lock cylinder, it sends an encrypted message to the immobilizer of the car. automotive key replacement is in line with an ID number associated with the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle since it isn't able to be started without the proper code.
This type of key was developed to make it more difficult for thieves to wire the vehicle. Transponder keys require a unique code to activate. They are difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and should be copied only by an auto locksmith.
This means that the transponder key is more expensive than traditional bladed keys. However, this extra cost is often worth it in the long run when taking into account the security advantages that come with this type of key.
Consider how important security is for you before you decide to purchase a transponder. Think about your budget and lifestyle before deciding if the extra cost is worth it.
Car dealerships usually charge a premium for car key replacement services. This is due to the fact that they have exclusive right to sell certain models of cars and have very high costs of operation. There are other locksmiths for cars who provide the same service for less money.
If you aren't sure if your car has a chip, you can inquire with your local auto locksmith or dealer. auto key replacement will be able to tell you whether your vehicle has a transponder chip, and provide an estimate of the cost to get an entirely new key. Whether you opt for the less expensive non-transponder keys or the more expensive transponder key, it's important to find a reliable auto locksmith that has experience working with your type of car.
Laser-Cut Keys
Some newer cars use a more advanced key design, known as a laser cut key or sidewinder key. These keys require an auto dealer or locksmith to cut them, and then program a computer chip in the key. Although they are more expensive than traditional ones, they also offer superior security features. This is why they're the best choice for those trying to prevent car theft.
Laser-cut keys are different from standard two-sided keys because they are only cut in the middle. These cuts are much more precise and are much more difficult to duplicate than standard notches that are found on standard key blades. They are also more difficult to detect which makes them a great deterrent for would-be thieves.
To make a key that is laser-cut, the locksmith or dealer utilizes a milling machine that is specifically designed for this purpose. These machines use a bit that resembles drills to slowly strip away the key's metal. They can remove precisely the amount of metal required for a particular key, which gives them the highest level of precision. This makes it harder for thieves to cut their own copy.
Laser-cut keys are more secure than conventional keys because they can't be used to open other vehicles with the same key lock. When a standard 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 when it detects an unidentified key. However, laser-cut keys have a built-in transponder that is registered to a specific vehicle. This means that even if a burglar manages to cut and program a laser-cut key however, the engine will not start.
To cut a key laser-cut, a technician will need to have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle to find the right specifications for it on the CNC machine. The process could take anywhere between 15 minutes to a few hours based on the make and model of the vehicle in question. Once the correct specifications have been entered the key laser-cut is now ready to be programmed by the locksmith or dealer.
Dealerships
The process of replacing your car keys through the dealership can be the most expensive option, however, it is usually necessary. The good news is that many times, it is covered by insurance or your warranty. You should check with your auto insurance provider to see if key replacements are covered by the policy. It is also recommended to have any stolen, lost, or damaged keys deprogrammed at the dealership, since this will ensure that no one can use them again in the future.
If you have a standard key fob, it might be the cheapest option to get it replaced at the dealership. If your key fob has a chip built in and can't be cloned it is likely to cost more money to have it replaced at the dealership or by locksmiths. The cost of a key fob can vary widely based on the make and model of your vehicle, so it is recommended to speak with local dealers, locksmiths or mechanics for a precise 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 than by locksmith. However, you'll want to make sure that the spare key is compatible with your vehicle.
It is essential to note down your VIN whether you're having your car keys replaced at a dealership or locksmith. This will help to ensure that the replacement key is the correct fit and can be paired with your vehicle. You will be able to locate your VIN on the dashboard of your vehicle, on the side of 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 not a major issue. However, the advancements in technology in modern vehicles has made it much more difficult to replace keys, and this can be very costly. It is recommended to always keep a spare car key at and ready in the event that your keys get stolen or lost.