7 Tips About Cost Of Car Key Replacement That Nobody Will Tell You
Cost of Car Key Replacement
The loss of your car keys is an enormous hassle and can be costly to replace. Based on the kind of keys you have, the price can differ.
Contacting a locksmith or dealer to provide an estimate is the best way to find out how much it will cost to replace a key. Here is a list that outlines the various factors that can affect the cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are also referred as chip keys. They contain the microchip which is embedded into the head of the key. When the chip is inserted in the cylinder for ignition it transmits an encrypted message to the immobilizer of the vehicle. This code is in line with an ID number that is attached to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle because it is not able to be started without the proper code.
The motivation behind the creation of this type of key was to make it more difficult for thieves to heat wire a vehicle. Before this technology came along it was quite easy for thieves to start cars by connecting two wires, a process known as "hot wiring." The transponder keys are so secure because they require a specific code to be activated. They are difficult to duplicate with standard tools, and should be copied only by an auto locksmith.
Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional bladed keys. However, the extra cost is usually worth it in the long run when taking into account the security benefits that come with this kind of key.
Consider the importance of security for you before deciding to get a transponder. Take into consideration your budget and your lifestyle before deciding if the cost is worth it.
Dealerships charge a premium to replace car keys. This is because they have the exclusive right to sell certain models of vehicles and have high overheads. However, there are auto key replacement that are professional and offer the same quality service at lower prices.
If you're unsure if your car is equipped with a transponder chip, you can consult your local dealer or auto locksmith. They'll be able to determine if your car has a chip and also help determine the cost of purchasing a new one. Whichever you choose, lower-cost non-transponder key or more expensive transponder key, it's essential to find a reputable auto locksmith that has expertise working with your particular model of vehicle.
Laser-Cut Keys
Some newer vehicles use keys with more sophisticated designs known as a sidewinder or laser cut keys. Keys are cut by a locksmith or dealer and have a computer chip programmed in them. These keys are more expensive, but they offer more security. This is why they are considered to be a better investment for those who want to prevent car theft.
Laser-cut keys are different from regular two-sided key because they only have a cut in the middle. These cuts are more precise and much more difficult to duplicate than the standard notches found on regular key blades. They are also more difficult to detect, making them an effective deterrent to thieves.
A locksmith or dealer would employ a milling machine to make a laser-cutted key. These machines use a bit that is shaped like a drill, to gradually strip the metal from the key. They can remove precisely the amount of metal required for a particular key and provide a high level of precision which makes it difficult for a criminal to cut their own duplicate.
Laser-cut keys can also be more secure than traditional keys because they can't be used to open other vehicles with the same key lock. When a standard car key is inserted it sends a signal to the vehicle which lets it recognize it. The engine will not begin in the event that the key isn't recognized. However, laser-cut keys come with built-in transponders that are associated with a specific vehicle. This means that even if someone thief can cut and program a key laser-cut but the engine will not start.
Technicians will require 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 depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Once the correct specifications are entered, the laser-cut key is ready to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
Dealerships
The dealership is the most expensive but often necessary option to replace your keys to your car. It is typically covered by your insurance plan or warranty. Check with your auto insurance provider to make sure that the replacement of keys is covered in the policy. It's also a good idea to get any damaged keys that are stolen, lost, or damaged removed by the dealer as this will prevent anyone from using them in the future.
If you have a standard key fob it may be the least expensive option to get it replaced at the dealership. However, if your fob has a chip built in and isn't clonable, it will likely cost more to have it replaced at the dealership or through a locksmith. The cost of a key fob could vary widely based on the model and make of your car, so it is recommended to speak with local locksmiths, dealers, or mechanics for a precise price estimate.
Another method to cut costs is to take your spare key with you to the dealer and having it copied there. It's cheaper to have it cloned at the dealership than by locksmith. However, you will need to ensure that the spare key is compatible with your vehicle.
If you're replacing your vehicle key at the dealership or using a locksmith, it's crucial to take the time to note down your vehicle identification number (VIN). This will help to ensure that the new key is the correct fit and can be paired with your vehicle. You can find your VIN in the owner's manual on your dashboard or in the corner of your windshield, or on the front of your engine block.
In the past the past, losing a car key was no big deal. The technology of modern vehicles has made it harder to replace keys and this can be costly. Always keep an extra car key on and ready in the event that your keys are stolen or lost.