Cost of Car Key Replacement
The loss of your car keys is an immense hassle and could be costly to replace. The cost can be different based on the kind of car keys you have.
The best way to find out the price to replace the car key is to speak with the locksmith or dealer. Here is a list of the various factors that could affect the price.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are also referred to as chip keys. They are equipped with the microchip which is embedded inside the head of the key. The chip sends out a coded signal to the immobilizer of the car 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 car because it cannot be started without the code.
The main reason behind the development of this type of key was to make it more difficult for thieves to wire vehicles. Before this technology was invented it was quite easy for thieves to open vehicles by connecting two wires, a process called "hot wiring." The transponder keys are secure because they require a specific code to be activated. advice here are extremely difficult to duplicate using standard tools, and need to be copied only by an auto locksmith.
Transponder keys are more expensive than bladed traditional keys. This cost is worth it when you consider the security benefits of this type of key.
Think about how important security is for you before deciding to get a transponder. Take into consideration your budget and your lifestyle before deciding if the additional cost is worth it.
Car dealerships often charge a premium for key replacement services for cars. This is because they have the exclusive rights to sell certain models of cars and have high overheads. There are many professional car locksmiths that offer the same service but at lower costs.
If you are unsure whether your car has chip, ask your local auto locksmith or dealer. They'll be able to inform you if your vehicle is chip-equipped and will also help determine the cost of getting a new one. Whether you opt for the lower-cost non-transponder key or more expensive transponder key it's important to find a reputable auto locksmith who has experience working with your type of car.
Laser-Cut Keys
Some newer vehicles use a more sophisticated key design known as a sidewinder or laser cut keys. 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 offer more security. This is why they're considered the best choice for those who are trying to prevent car theft.
Contrary to conventional 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 the standard notches on regular key blades. They are also more difficult to detect, making them an excellent security measure for thieves.
A locksmith or dealer would use a milling machine to create a laser-cut key. These machines use a bit designed like a drill to gradually strip the metal from the key. They can take out the exact amount of metal needed for the key in question that gives them a high level of precision that makes it more difficult for thieves to cut their own copy.
Another reason why keys that are laser-cut are more secure than conventional keys is that they aren't able to be used to unlock other similar cars like they could use regular keys. When a normal car key is used, it sends a signal the vehicle that allows it to recognize it. The engine will not start if the key is not recognized. But, laser-cut keys have built-in transponders that are associated with a specific vehicle. This means that if a burglar can program and cut a laser-cut key, the engine won't start.
To cut a laser-cut key technicians will need to have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle to find the right specifications for it on the CNC machine. The process can take anywhere from 15 minutes up to a few days depending on the model and make of the vehicle. 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 alternative to replace your car keys. It is typically covered by your insurance plan or warranty. Contact your insurance company to confirm that replacement for keys is included in 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 use them again in the future.
If you have a standard key fob it might be the most affordable alternative to replace it at the dealership. If the key fob you have is not capable of cloning and has 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 car, so it's best to consult with 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 than through a locksmith. However, you will need to ensure that your spare key works with your vehicle.
If you're replacing your car key at the dealership or using a locksmith, it's crucial to to write down your vehicle identification number (VIN). This will help to ensure that the new key is of the correct size and will be compatible with your vehicle. You can locate your VIN on the dashboard of your car, on the windshield at the corner of the windshield or on the front of the engine block, or in the owner's manual.
In the past, it was not a big deal to lose a car key. However, the technology of modern automobiles has made it much more difficult to replace them, and this can be very expensive. You should always have an extra car key on the go or be aware of your options in the event that your keys are lost or stolen.