Cost of Car Key Replacement
Losing your car keys is an immense hassle and could be costly to replace. The cost will vary based on the type you are using.
Contacting a locksmith or dealer for an estimate is the best way to learn the cost to replace the key. Below is a list 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 in the head of the key. The chip transmits a coded signal to the car's immobilizer when it is put into the ignition lock cylinder. The code is matched to a unique ID number that is connected to the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a car because it isn't able to be started without a valid code.
This type of key was created to make it more difficult for thieves to hot-wire vehicles. Before this technology was invented it was easy for thieves to open vehicles by connecting two wires using a technique known as "hot wiring." The transponder keys are secure because they require a specific code to be activated. They are difficult to duplicate with standard tools, and must be copied only by an auto locksmith.
In the end, the transponder key is more expensive than traditional bladed keys. However, this extra cost can be worth it in the long run when considering 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. Take into consideration your budget and your lifestyle before deciding if the extra expense is worth it.
Car dealerships typically charge a fee for key replacement services for cars. This is because they have exclusive rights to sell certain models of cars and have high expenses. There are other professional car locksmiths who offer the same quality service for less.
If you're unsure whether your car is equipped with chip, ask your local dealer or auto locksmith. They'll be able tell you whether or not your vehicle has a chip and will also help determine the cost to purchase a new one. Whichever you choose, cheaper non-transponder key or the more expensive transponder key, it is essential to find a reliable auto locksmith that has expertise working with your particular model of car.
Laser-Cut Keys
Certain newer cars use a more sophisticated design for keys known as a sidewinder or laser cut keys. These keys require a locksmith or car dealership to cut them and program an electronic chip into the key. They are more expensive, but they provide greater security. This is why they are considered a more beneficial investment for those who wish to avoid car theft.
Laser-cut keys differ from regular two-sided keys since they have only a cut in the middle. The cuts are more precise and much more difficult to duplicate than standard notches that are found on standard key blades. They are also difficult to discern, making them an excellent protection against thieves who might be.
A locksmith or dealer can use a milling machine to create a laser-cut key. These machines employ a tool designed like a drill to slowly strip the metal from the key. They can remove exactly the amount of metal required for a particular key, which gives them the highest level of precision. This makes it difficult for thieves to make their own duplicate.
Another reason why keys made of lasers are more secure than traditional keys is that they aren't able to be used to unlock similar vehicles as they can use regular keys. When a regular car key is inserted, it sends a signal to the vehicle which lets it recognize it. This is why the engine won't start when it detects an unidentified key. Laser-cut keys, however, come with a transponder, which is registered to a particular vehicle. This means that even if a thief can cut and program a laser-cut key, the engine will still 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 retrieve the appropriate specs for it on the CNC machine. The process can range between 15 minutes to several hours, depending on the make and model of the vehicle being examined. After the correct specifications have been completed, a laser-cut key is ready to be programmed by the locksmith or dealership.
Dealerships
The dealership is the most expensive, however, it is the most often needed option to replace your car keys. The positive side is that a lot of times, it is covered by insurance or your warranty. You should check with your auto insurance provider to see if key replacements are covered under 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 in the future.
If you have a standard fob getting it replaced by a dealership could be the most affordable alternative. If the key fob you have is not replicable and comes with an embedded chip it might cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob may differ greatly based on the make and model of your vehicle, so it's recommended to talk to local dealers, locksmiths or mechanics to get an accurate price estimate.
You can also save money by having your spare key cloned at the dealership. It can be cheaper to have it copied at the dealership rather than through locksmith. However, you will want to make sure that your spare key works with your vehicle.
If you're replacing your car key at the dealership or through locksmiths, it's essential to make sure you record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will help ensure that the new key is a good fit and will be compatible 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 car keys. However, automotive key replacement of modern vehicles has made it much more difficult to replace keys, and this can be very expensive. It's best to be prepared with an extra key on hand or knowing what options you have to replace your car keys in the event they are lost or stolen.