Cost of Car Key Replacement
It's a big trouble to lose your car keys, and expensive to replace keys. Based on the kind of keys you have, the price may differ.
The best way to find out the price to replace a car key is to speak with a locksmith or dealership. Below is a list of the factors that can impact the price.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also called chip keys, have an electronic microchip that is embedded in the keyhead. The chip sends out an encrypted signal to the immobilizer of the car when it is placed inside the ignition lock cylinder. This code matches a special ID number that is connected to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle since it cannot be started without a valid code.
This kind of key was designed to make it difficult for thieves to hot-wire a vehicle. Before this technology was invented, it was very simple for thieves to open vehicles by connecting two wires, a process called "hot wiring." car key mobile replacement are extremely secure due to the fact that they require a unique code in order to be activated. They are difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and should be copied only by an auto locksmith.
Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional bladed keys. The extra cost is worthwhile when you consider the security advantages of this type key.
Consider car key fob replacements of security for you before you decide to purchase a transponder. Take into consideration your budget and your lifestyle before deciding if the extra cost is worth it.
Car dealerships typically charge a premium for key replacement services for cars. This is because they have exclusive rights to sell certain models of vehicles and have high costs of operation. There are a variety of professional car locksmiths that offer the same service at lower rates.
If you're unsure if your car is equipped with a transponder chip, you can consult your local dealer or an auto locksmith. They can tell you whether your car is equipped with a transponder chip and also provide you with an estimate of the cost to purchase an entirely new key. It is important to select an auto locksmith with a good reputation who has experience working on your car model, whether you opt for the cheaper transponder or the more expensive keys that are not transponder-compatible.
Laser-Cut Keys
Some modern cars have a more advanced key design that is known as laser cut keys or sidewinder key. Keys are cut by a locksmith or dealer and come with an embedded computer chip the keys. Although these keys are more expensive than traditional keys, they do come with superior security features. This is why they are considered to be a better investment by people who want to stop car theft.
Laser-cut keys are different from regular two-sided keys since they are only cut in the middle. These cuts are more precise and harder to duplicate than standard notches on standard key blades. They are also harder to detect and are a great security measure for thieves.
A locksmith or dealer would employ a milling machine to create a laser-cut key. The machines utilize a bit that looks like drills to slowly strip away the key's metal. They can remove the exact amount of metal needed for a specific key that gives them the highest level of precision which makes it difficult for thieves to make their own copy.
Another reason why keys that are laser-cut are more secure than conventional keys is that they cannot be used to unlock other similar vehicles like they would use regular keys. When a regular car key is inserted, it sends a signal to the vehicle which lets it recognize it. The engine will not begin if the key is not recognized. However, laser-cut keys have built-in transponders that are associated with a specific vehicle. This means that if a burglar is able to cut and program a laser-cut key, the engine will not start.
To cut a laser-cut key the technician needs to have the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle to retrieve the appropriate specs for the CNC machine. This process can last anywhere from 15 minutes up to a few days depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Once the correct specifications are entered, a laser-cut key 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 car keys. The positive side is that a lot of times it can be covered by your warranty or insurance. It is advisable to check with your auto insurance provider to see if key replacements are covered by the policy. It's also recommended to have any lost, stolen or damaged keys deprogrammed by the dealership, since this will ensure that no one can use them again in the future.
If you have a standard key fob, it may be the most affordable option to get it replaced at the dealership. If your key fob is not capable of cloning and has a chip built-in it could cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a keyfob can vary widely based on the model of your car and make. It is best to talk to local locksmiths, mechanics or dealerships to get an accurate estimate.
You can also save money by having your spare key cloned at the dealership. It's cheaper to have it copied at the dealership than by locksmith. However, you will want to make sure that the spare key is compatible with your vehicle.
If you're replacing your car key at the dealership or with a locksmith, it's important to to record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will ensure that the replacement key fits correctly and can be connected to 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 expensive. Always keep car key and remote replacement at and ready in the event that your keys get stolen or lost.