Cost of Car Key Replacement
It can be a huge problem to lose your car keys, and costly to replace them. The cost will vary based on the kind of car keys you are using.
A locksmith or dealer to provide an estimate is the best method to determine how much it will be to replace a key. Below is a list of the variables that could affect the cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, often referred to as chip keys, have an electronic microchip that is embedded in the keyhead. When the chip is inserted into the cylinder of the ignition lock, it sends a coded message to the immobilizer on the car. car replacement keys is matched to an ID number associated with the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a car 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 harder for thieves to heat wire the vehicle. Transponder keys require a unique code to activate. They are difficult to duplicate with standard tools, and need to be duplicated only by an auto locksmith.
Transponder keys are more expensive than bladed traditional keys. However, this cost is often worth it in the long run, especially when considering the security benefits of 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 cost is worth it.
Dealerships are charged a premium to replace keys for cars. It is because they are the only dealers of certain car models and have large overheads. There are a variety of professional car locksmiths that offer the same service but at lower costs.
If you're unsure whether your car has a transponder chip, you can check with your local dealer or auto locksmith. They'll be able to tell whether your car is equipped with a transponder chip and also provide an estimate of the cost to purchase an entirely new key. If you decide to go with the cheaper non-transponder key or the more expensive transponder key it's important to find a reliable auto locksmith with expertise working with your particular model of vehicle.
Laser-Cut Keys
Some newer cars use the most advanced key design that is known as a laser cut key or sidewinder key. These keys require an auto dealer or locksmith to cut them and program the computer chip inside the key. Although they are more expensive than standard ones, they also offer higher security features. This is why they are considered a better investment by those who wish to avoid car theft.
Laser-cut keys differ from regular two-sided key because they are only cut in the middle. These cuts are much more precise and are a lot harder to duplicate than standard notches that are found on standard key blades. They are also more difficult to pick and therefore an effective deterrent to thieves.
To make a key that is laser-cut, a locksmith or dealer uses a special milling machine. These machines use a bit that looks like a drill to slowly remove the key's metal. They can remove the exact amount of metal needed to make a specific key that gives them an extremely high level of accuracy which makes it difficult for thieves to cut their own duplicate.
Another reason why keys made of lasers are more secure than conventional keys is that they cannot be used to unlock other similar vehicles as they can with standard key locks. When a regular car key is inserted, it sends a signal to the vehicle which lets it recognize it. This is why the engine will refuse to start when it detects an unidentified key. Laser-cut keys, however, come with a transponder that's associated with a specific vehicle. This means that even if a burglar manages to cut and program a key laser-cut however, the engine will refuse to start.
To cut a laser-cut keys, 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 several hours, depending on the make and model of the vehicle that is being considered. Once the correct specifications are completed, a laser-cut key can be programmed by the locksmith or dealership.
Dealerships
Getting your car key replacement at the dealership might be the most expensive option but it is often necessary. The good news is that a lot of times it can be covered by your warranty or insurance. It is best to consult with your auto insurance provider to see if key replacements are covered under the policy. It's also a good idea to have any damaged, lost or stolen keys deprogrammed by the dealer, to prevent anyone from using them again in the future.
If you have a standard key fob it may be the least expensive option to get it replaced at the dealership. If your key fob isn't replicable and comes with a chip built-in, it may cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob may vary greatly depending on the make and model of your car, therefore it's recommended to talk to local dealers, locksmiths or mechanics for an accurate cost estimate.
You can also save money by having your spare key cloned at the dealership. This is less expensive than having it cloned by a locksmith, however you'll want to ensure that your spare key is compatible with your car.
It's important that you note down your VIN whether you're having your car keys replaced at a dealership or locksmith. This will help to ensure that the new key is of the correct size and is compatible with your vehicle. You can locate 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, it wasn't an issue to lose the car keys. Modern technology has made it harder to replace keys, and this can be costly. You should always have a spare car key at hand or know your options in the event that your keys get lost or stolen.