Cost of Car Key Replacement
Losing your car keys can be an immense hassle and could be costly to replace. Depending on the kind of keys you own, the cost will vary.
A locksmith or dealer for an estimate is the best way to find out how much it will be to replace the key. Below is a list of some of the factors that can impact the price.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are also referred as chip keys. They contain a microchip that is embedded inside the head of the key. The chip transmits a coded signal to the car's immobilizer when it is inserted into the ignition lock cylinder. The code is matched to a unique ID number that is connected to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle since it isn't able to be started without the correct code.
The reason for the development of this type of key was to make it more difficult for thieves to heat wire the vehicle. Transponder keys require an unique code to activate. They are difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and need to be cloned only by an auto locksmith.
As a result, the transponder key is more expensive than traditional bladed keys. The extra cost is worth it if you take into consideration the security advantages of this type of key.
Consider how important security is for you before deciding to get transponders. Consider your budget and lifestyle before deciding if the expense is worth it.
Car dealerships typically charge a fee for the replacement of car keys. This is because they hold exclusive rights to sell certain models of vehicles and have high expenses. There are many professional locksmiths for cars that provide the same service at lower costs.
If you're not sure if your car has a transponder chip, check with your local dealer or an auto locksmith. They'll be able determine if your car has a chip and also help determine the cost of getting a new one. Whether you opt for the cheaper non-transponder key or the more expensive transponder key, it's essential to find a reliable auto locksmith with worked with your model of car.
Laser-Cut Keys
Certain cars with modern technology have a more advanced key design called 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. They are more expensive, but they provide more security. This is why they are considered a better investment by those who wish to avoid car theft.
In contrast to 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, making them more effective in deterring thieves.
A locksmith or dealer will make use of a milling device to create a laser-cut key. These machines employ a tool that resembles drills to slowly strip away the key's metal. They can take out precisely the amount of metal required for a particular key, giving them 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 because they cannot be used to open other vehicles with the same key lock. When a regular key is placed in the vehicle, it emits an indication that allows the vehicle to recognize it. This is why the engine will refuse to start when it detects an unidentified key. Laser-cut keys have a built in transponder, which is tied to a specific vehicle. This means that if someone is able to program and cut a laser-cut key, the engine will not start.
To cut a laser-cut key technicians will need to have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle in order to retrieve the appropriate specs for the CNC machine. auto locksmith car key replacement can take anywhere between 15 minutes to several hours, depending on the model and make of the vehicle in question. Once the correct specifications are entered, a laser-cut keys will be ready for programming by the locksmith or dealership.
Dealerships
The dealership is the most expensive however, it is the most often needed option to replace your keys to your car. The positive side is that a lot of times it can be covered by your warranty or insurance. Check with your auto insurance provider to make sure that the replacement of keys is covered in the policy. It is also an excellent idea to get any stolen, lost or damaged keys deprogrammed by the dealership, as this will ensure that no one will be able to use them in the future.
If you have a standard fob replacing it by a dealership could be the cheapest alternative. However, if your key fob is equipped with a chip and cannot be duplicated it is likely to cost more to have it replaced at the dealership or by an locksmith. The cost of a key fob can differ greatly based on the model and brand of your car, therefore it's recommended to talk to local locksmiths, dealers, 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, but 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 by a locksmith. This will help ensure that the key replacement is of the correct size 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 wasn't a big deal to lose a car key. The technology of modern vehicles has made it harder to replace keys and this can be expensive. It is recommended to always keep an extra car key on and ready in the event that your keys get lost or stolen.