Cost of Car Key Replacement
The loss of your car keys is an immense hassle and could be expensive to replace. Based 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 cost to replace keys. Here is a list of several factors that could affect the price.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are also known as chip keys. They contain the microchip which is embedded inside the head of the key. When the chip is placed in the cylinder for ignition, it sends a coded message to the immobilizer of the vehicle. This code matches an ID number that is attached to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle because it is not able to be started without a valid code.
The reason for the development of this type of key was to make it harder for thieves to hot wire the vehicle. Transponder keys require a unique code to activate. These unique codes are difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and must be copied by an auto locksmith.
In the end, the transponder key is more expensive than conventional bladed keys. This extra cost is worth it if you consider the security advantages of this type of key.
Consider the importance of security for you before deciding to get a transponder. Consider your budget and lifestyle before deciding if the expense is worth it.
Car dealerships often charge a premium for the replacement of car keys. It is because they are the sole dealers for certain car models and have huge overheads. However, there are other professional car locksmiths who provide the same high-quality service for less.
If you aren't sure whether your car is equipped with chip, inquire with your local dealer or auto locksmith. how to get car key replacement can tell you whether your car is equipped with an electronic transponder and provide you with an estimate of the cost to purchase new keys. If you decide to go with the less expensive non-transponder keys or the more expensive transponder key, it's essential to find a reliable auto locksmith that has experience working with your type of car.
Laser-Cut Keys
Certain newer cars use a more sophisticated design for keys called a sidewinder, or laser cut key. These keys are made by a locksmith or dealership and include an embedded computer chip in them. Although replacement car keys with chips are more expensive than traditional keys, they do come with superior security features. This is why they are considered a more beneficial investment for those who wish to avoid car theft.
In contrast to regular two-sided keys laser-cut keys are cut in the center of the key only. These cuts are more precise and harder to duplicate than the standard notches on regular blades. They are also harder to detect, making them a better deterrent for thieves.
To make a key that is laser-cut, dealers or locksmiths use a milling machine that is specifically designed for this purpose. These machines use a bit that looks like an ax to slowly remove the key's metal. They can take out precisely the amount of metal required for a particular key, allowing them to have a high degree of precision. This makes it harder for thieves to make their own copy.
Laser-cut keys are also more secure than conventional keys since they are not able to unlock other cars using the same key lock. When a normal key is placed in a car, it transmits a signal that enables the vehicle to recognize it. This is the reason why the engine will refuse to start in the event of detecting an unidentified key. However, laser-cut keys come with a built-in transponder that is registered to a specific car. This means that even if a burglar manages to cut and program a laser-cut key but the engine will refuse to start.
Technicians will require the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), of the vehicle, to locate the CNC machine's specifications for cutting the laser. The process can take anywhere from 15 minutes up to a few days based on the make and model of the vehicle. Once the correct specifications have been entered the key cut by laser is ready to be programmed by the locksmith or dealer.
Dealerships
The dealership is the most expensive, however, it is the most often needed option to replace your car keys. The positive side is that a lot of times, it is covered by insurance or your warranty. It is advisable to check with your auto insurance provider to determine if replacement keys are covered by the policy. It's also an excellent idea to have any stolen, lost, or damaged keys deprogrammed by 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 least expensive option to get it replaced at the dealership. If your key fob has a built-in chip and cannot be duplicated, it will likely cost more money to have it replaced at the dealership or by an locksmith. The cost of a key fob could vary widely based on the make and model of your vehicle, so it is recommended to speak with local dealers, locksmiths or mechanics for an accurate cost estimate.
Another method to cut costs is to bring your spare key with you to the dealership and having it copied there. It can be cheaper to have it cloned at the dealership than by a locksmith. However, you'll be sure to ensure that your spare key works with your vehicle.
It's essential to note down your VIN whether you're having your car keys replaced at a dealership or by a locksmith. This will help to ensure that the key replacement is the correct fit and can be paired with your vehicle. You can find 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 was not an issue to lose a car key. The technology of modern vehicles has made it more difficult to replace keys and can be costly. It is recommended to always keep an extra car key on hand or know your options in the event that your keys are lost or stolen.