Cost of Car Key Replacement
It can be a major hassle to lose your car keys and costly to replace keys. The cost can be different based on the type of key you are using.
The best way to find out the price to replace the car key is to talk to an auto locksmith or a dealership. Below is a list of some of the elements that could influence the cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are also referred to as chip keys. They are equipped with a microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The chip transmits an encrypted signal to the car's immobilizer when it is put into the ignition lock cylinder. This code is unique to the ID number that is linked to the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a vehicle because it can't be started without the code.
The motivation behind the creation of this type of key was to make it harder for thieves to heat wire a vehicle. Before the invention of this technology, it was very simple for thieves to start vehicles by connecting two wires in a process called "hot wiring." Transponder keys are extremely secure due to the fact that they require a unique code to be activated. These unique codes are difficult to duplicate with regular tools and must be copied by an auto locksmith.
replacement car key fob means that the transponder key is more expensive than conventional bladed keys. However, this extra cost is often worth it in the long run when taking into account the security benefits that come with 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 cost is worth it.
Dealerships charge a fee to replace car keys. It is because they are the sole dealers for certain car models and have huge costs of operation. There are a variety of professional locksmiths for cars that provide the same service for less costs.
If you aren't sure whether your car has a chip, you can inquire with your local auto locksmith or dealer. 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 a new key. Whichever you choose, cheaper non-transponder key or the more expensive transponder key, it is essential to find a reliable auto locksmith that has experience working with your type of vehicle.
Laser-Cut Keys
Some modern vehicles have a more sophisticated design for keys called a sidewinder, or laser cut key. These keys are cut by a locksmith or dealership and come with an embedded computer chip in the keys. They're more expensive, but they offer greater security. This is why they are considered a better investment for people who want to stop car theft.
In contrast to regular two-sided keys laser-cut keys have cuts 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 more difficult to detect, making them a better deterrent for thieves.
A locksmith or dealer can use a milling machine to create a key that is laser-cut. These machines use a bit shaped like a drill to slowly strip the metal from the key. They can take out precisely the amount of metal needed for a particular key, giving them an extremely high level of precision. This makes it harder for a thief cut their own duplicate.
Another reason why laser-cut keys are more secure than conventional keys is because they can't be used to unlock similar cars like they could with standard key locks. When a regular key is inserted into the vehicle, it emits a signal that enables the vehicle to recognize it. This is the reason why the engine will refuse to start when it detects an unidentified key. Laser-cut keys, however, have a built in transponder that is associated with a specific vehicle. This means that if a thief is able to program and cut a laser-cutted key, the engine will not start.
A technician will need the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), of the vehicle, to retrieve the CNC machine's specifications for cutting the laser. This process can last between 15 minutes to a few days based on the model and brand of the vehicle. Once the correct specifications are entered, the laser-cut key can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
Dealerships
The dealership is the most expensive, but it is often the best alternative to replace your car keys. It is often covered by your insurance or warranty. It is advisable to check with your insurance company to determine if replacement keys are covered by the policy. It is also a good idea to have any lost, stolen or damaged keys deprogrammed by the dealership, as this will ensure that no one else will be able to make use of them in the future.
If you have a standard key fob, replacing it at a dealership may be the cheapest alternative. If the key fob you have is not clonable and has a chip built-in, it may cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob could vary greatly depending on the model and make of your vehicle, so it is recommended to speak with local dealers, locksmiths or mechanics for an accurate price estimate.
You can also save money by having your spare key copied at the dealership. This is less expensive than having it cloned by a locksmith, however you'll want to make sure your spare key is compatible with your vehicle.
If you're replacing your vehicle key at the dealership or with a locksmith, it's crucial to make sure you note down your vehicle identification number (VIN). This will help to ensure that the key replacement is a good fit and can be paired with your vehicle. You can find your VIN in your 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 a big deal to lose the key to your car. However, the technology of modern automobiles has made it much more difficult to replace keys, and this can be very expensive. It is recommended to be prepared with an extra key in your car, or know what options you have for replacing your car keys in the event they are lost or stolen.