Cost of Car Key Replacement
It's a big problem to lose your car keys and it can be costly to replace keys. The cost will vary based on the type you have.
car replacement key to find out how much it will cost to replace the car key is to talk to the locksmith or dealer. Here is a list that includes some of the factors which can affect the cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are also known as chip keys. They contain a microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The chip sends out an encoded signal to the immobilizer of the car when it is put into the ignition lock cylinder. This code matches an ID number that is attached to the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a vehicle because it isn't 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 heat wire vehicles. Transponder keys require a unique code to activate. They are difficult to duplicate using standard tools, and need to be duplicated only by an auto locksmith.
As a result, the transponder key is more expensive than traditional bladed keys. auto key replacement cost is worth it if you consider the security advantages of this type of key.
Consider how important security is for you before you decide to purchase a transponder. Consider your budget and lifestyle to decide whether or not the added cost is worth it to you.
Dealerships charge a premium to replace keys for cars. This is due to the fact that they are the sole dealers for certain models of cars and have high costs of operation. There are numerous professional car locksmiths who provide the same service for less cost.
If you're unsure if your car has a transponder chip, check with your local dealer or an auto locksmith. They can tell you whether your car is equipped with a transponder chip, and provide you with an estimate of the cost to get an entirely new key. Whether you opt for the lower-cost non-transponder key or more expensive transponder key it's important to find a reputable auto locksmith with experience working with your type of vehicle.
Laser-Cut Keys
Certain cars with modern technology have keys with more advanced designs that is known as a laser cut key or sidewinder key. These keys require the services of a locksmith or car dealer to cut them and then program an electronic chip into the key. These keys are more expensive, but they offer more security. This is why they're a better investment for those looking to avoid car theft.
Unlike regular two-sided keys, laser-cut keys are cut in the middle of the key only. These cuts are more precise and difficult to duplicate than standard notches on regular blades. They are also harder to detect which makes them a great protection against thieves who might be.
To make a key that is laser-cut, the locksmith or dealer utilizes a milling machine that is specifically designed for this purpose. The machines utilize a bit that resembles an ax to slowly remove the key's metal. They can take out the exact amount of metal needed for a particular key and provide the highest level of precision which makes it difficult for thieves to cut their own copy.
Laser-cut keys can also be more secure than traditional keys because they can't be used to open other vehicles with the same lock. When a normal car key is used, it sends a signal the vehicle, which lets it recognize it. The engine will not start if the key is not recognized. Laser-cut keys come with a transponder that is tied to a specific vehicle. This means that if a thief is able to program and cut a laser-cut key, the engine will not start.
A technician will require the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), of the vehicle, to find the CNC machine's specifications for cutting the laser. The process can range between 15 minutes to several hours, depending on the make and model of the vehicle in question. Once the correct specifications have been entered, the laser-cut key is now ready to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
Dealerships
Getting your car key replacement through the dealership can be the most expensive option, however, it is usually necessary. The good news is that a lot of times it can be covered by your warranty or insurance. Contact your insurance company to confirm that key replacement is included in the policy. It is also a great idea to have any damaged keys, stolen or lost deprogrammed by your dealer, as this will prevent anyone from using them again in the future.
If you have a standard key fob, replacing it at a dealership may be the cheapest option. If your key fob is not capable of cloning and has an embedded chip it could cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob can vary greatly depending on the model and brand of your vehicle, so it's recommended to talk to local locksmiths, dealers, or mechanics for an accurate price estimate.
You can also save money by having your spare key cloned at the dealership. It's cheaper to have it cloned by the dealership than through locksmith. However, you'll want to make sure that the spare key is compatible with your vehicle.
It's essential to record your VIN whether you're getting your car key replaced by a dealer or a locksmith. This will ensure that the replacement key is the correct fit and is compatible 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 the past, losing a car key was not a big issue. Modern technology has made it more difficult to replace keys, and this can be costly. It is recommended to be prepared with a spare key with you, or know what options you have for replacing your car keys in the event that they get stolen or lost.