Cost of Car Key Replacement
It's a big hassle to lose your car keys, and expensive to replace them. The cost can be different based on the type of key you have.
The best method to determine the cost to replace the car key is to ask the locksmith or dealer. Below is a list of some of the elements that could influence the price.
replacement car keys with chips are also known as chip keys. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the head of the key. The chip sends out a coded signal to the car's immobilizer when it is placed inside 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 is not able to be started without the correct code.
The main reason behind the development of this type of key was to make it more difficult for thieves to hot wire the vehicle. Before the invention of this technology it was quite easy for thieves to start vehicles by connecting two wires, a process known as "hot wiring." Transponder keys are so secure because they require a unique code in order to be activated. These unique codes are difficult to duplicate using standard tools and must be copied by an auto locksmith.
Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional bladed keys. However, this cost is usually worth it in the long run, especially when taking into account the security benefits of this kind of key.
Consider how important security is for you before you decide to get a transponder. Take into consideration your budget and your lifestyle to determine whether or not the cost is worth it for you.
Dealerships charge a fee to replace car keys. It is because they are the exclusive dealers of certain car models and have high overheads. There are other professional car locksmiths who provide the same high-quality service for less.
If you're unsure whether your car has a transponder chip, you can inquire with your local dealer or auto locksmith. They'll be able to tell whether your vehicle has a transponder chip, and provide you with an estimate of the cost to get new keys. It is essential to select an auto locksmith with a good reputation who has experience with your car model, whether you opt for the cheaper transponder or the more expensive non-transponder keys.
Laser-Cut Keys
Certain newer cars use keys with more sophisticated designs known as a sidewinder or laser cut key. Keys are cut by a locksmith or dealership and include an embedded computer chip the keys. These keys are more expensive, but they provide more security. how to get a car key replaced 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 tougher to duplicate than the standard notches on regular key blades. They are also harder to detect, making them a better deterrent for thieves.
A locksmith or dealer would use a milling machine to create a laser-cut key. These machines employ a tool designed like a drill to slowly remove the metal from the key. They can remove the exact amount of metal required for the key in question, which gives them an extremely high level of accuracy that makes it more difficult for thieves to make their own copy.
Laser-cut keys can also be more secure than conventional keys because they cannot be used to unlock other cars using the same lock. When a standard key is inserted into a car, it transmits an indication that allows the vehicle to recognize it. This is why the engine won't start when it detects an unidentified key. Laser-cut keys, however, have a built-in transponder, which is associated with a specific vehicle. This means that if a thief can program and cut a laser-cutted key, the engine will not start.
A technician will require the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), of the vehicle, in order to find the CNC machine's specifications for cutting the laser. The process could take anywhere from 15 minutes to a few hours based on the model and make of the vehicle being examined. 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 option to replace your car keys. The good news is that many times, it will be covered by your warranty or insurance. It is best to consult with your insurance company to determine if replacement keys are covered under the policy. It is also a good idea to get any lost, stolen or damaged keys deprogrammed by the dealership, as this will ensure that no one will be able to use them again in the future.
If you have a standard fob replacing it at a dealer could be the cheapest option. If your key fob is not capable of cloning and has a built in chip it could cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob could vary widely based on the model and brand of your car, so it's recommended to talk to local locksmiths, dealers, or mechanics for a precise cost estimate.
You can also save money by having your spare key cloned at the dealership. This is cheaper than having it copied by a locksmith, however you'll want to ensure that your spare key is compatible with your car.
It is essential to note down your VIN whether you're having your car keys replaced by a dealer or a locksmith. This will help ensure that the new key is of the correct size and is compatible with your vehicle. You can locate your VIN on the dashboard of your car on the windshield in 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 an issue to lose a car key. The advancements in technology in modern cars has made it harder to replace keys, and this could be costly. You should always have an extra car key on and ready in case your keys are stolen or lost.
