Cost of Car Key Replacement
It can be a major trouble to lose your car keys, and costly to replace them. The cost can vary depending on the type you are using.
The best method to determine the price to replace a car key is to talk to the locksmith or dealer. Below is a list of some of the elements that could influence the cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, often called chip keys, have an electronic micro-chip built into the keyhead. When the chip is placed in the cylinder for ignition it transmits an encrypted message to the immobilizer on the car. The code is matched to an ID number that is attached to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle since it is not able to be started without the proper code.
The main reason behind the development of this type of key was to make it harder for thieves to hot wire a vehicle. Transponder keys require an unique code to activate. These codes are difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and should be duplicated only by an auto locksmith.
As a result, the transponder key is more expensive than conventional bladed keys. This cost is worth it if you consider the security benefits of this type of key.
If you're thinking about purchasing a transponder key, you must first determine how important security is to you. Consider your budget and lifestyle to determine whether or not the cost is worth it for you.
Dealerships are charged a premium to replace keys for cars. This is because they have exclusive rights to sell certain models of vehicles and have high overheads. There are other locksmiths for cars who provide the same high-quality service at lower prices.
If you're unsure if your car has a transponder chip, you can consult your local dealer or auto locksmith. They will be able to tell you whether your vehicle has an electronic transponder and give you an estimate of the cost for a new key. It is important to select an auto locksmith that is reputable and has experience with your car model, regardless of whether you opt for a cheaper transponder or the more expensive keys that are not transponder-compatible.
Laser-Cut Keys
Certain newer cars use a more sophisticated key design called a sidewinder, or laser cut key. These keys are cut by a locksmith or dealer and include an embedded computer chip the keys. These keys are more expensive, but they provide better security. This is the reason why they're the best choice for those who are trying to prevent car theft.
Contrary to conventional two-sided keys laser-cut keys are cut in the middle of the key only. These cuts are more precise and a lot harder to duplicate than the standard notches found on regular key blades. They are also difficult to detect and are a great deterrent for would-be thieves.
To create a laser-cut key, a locksmith or dealer uses a special milling machine. These machines use a bit that resembles an ax to slowly remove the key's metal. They can remove precisely the amount of metal required for a particular key, which gives them an extremely high level of accuracy which makes it harder for thieves to make their own copy.
Laser-cut keys can also be more secure than traditional ones because they cannot be used to unlock other cars using the same lock. When a standard key is placed in the vehicle, it emits a signal that enables the vehicle to recognize it. This is the reason why the engine will refuse to start if it detects an unrecognized key. Laser-cut keys, however, have a built-in transponder that is tied to a specific vehicle. This means that even if a thief is able to cut and program a laser-cut key however, the engine will not start.
Technicians will require the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), of the vehicle, to find the CNC machine's specifications for cutting the laser. The process can take between 15 minutes to a few days depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Once the correct specifications have been entered, the laser-cut key is now ready to be programmed by the locksmith or dealer.
Dealerships
The process of replacing your car keys at the dealership might be the most expensive option however it is often the only option. The good news is that a lot of times, it is covered by your warranty or insurance. It is best to consult with your insurance company to determine if key replacements are covered by the policy. It is also a great idea to have any damaged, lost or stolen keys removed by the dealer as this will prevent anyone from using them again in the future.
If you have a standard fob, getting it replaced at a dealer could be the least costly option. 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 by a locksmith. The price of a keyfob may vary widely depending on the car's model and model. It is best to contact local locksmiths, mechanics or dealerships for a precise estimate.
Another option to save money is by bringing your spare key to the dealer and having it copied there. It is cheaper to have it cloned at the dealership rather than through a locksmith. However, you will need to ensure that the spare key is compatible with your vehicle.
It's important that you write down your VIN, whether you're having your car keys replaced by a dealer or a locksmith. This will ensure that the new key is a good fit and can be paired with your vehicle. cost of a replacement car key can locate your VIN on the dashboard of your car on the side of 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, it was not a big deal to lose a car key. The technology of modern vehicles has made it more difficult to replace keys, and this could be costly. It's best to be prepared by having an extra key on hand or knowing what your options are to replace your car keys in the event they are stolen or lost.