Cost of Car Key Replacement
Losing your car keys is an enormous hassle and can be expensive to replace. The cost can vary depending on the type you have.
A locksmith or dealer to provide an estimate is the best way to find out how much it will be to replace keys. Below is a list of the elements that could influence the price.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, sometimes called chip keys, contain an electronic microchip that is embedded in the keyhead. When the chip is inserted in the cylinder for ignition and it sends an encrypted message to the immobilizer of the car. The code is matched to an ID number associated with 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 harder for thieves to heat wire vehicles. Transponder keys require an unique code in order to activate. These unique codes are very difficult to duplicate with regular tools, and must be copied by an auto locksmith.
Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional bladed keys. The extra cost is worth it if you think about the security advantages of this type of key.
If content of purchasing a transponder key, you must first decide on the importance of security to you. Then consider your budget and lifestyle to determine whether or not the cost is worth it to you.
Dealerships charge a fee to replace car keys. This is because they hold exclusive rights to sell specific models of vehicles and have high expenses. There are a variety of professional car locksmiths that offer the same service at lower costs.
If you aren't sure if your car has chips, you can consult your local dealer or auto locksmith. They'll be able to tell whether your vehicle has a transponder chip, and provide an estimate of the cost to purchase a new key. If you decide to go with the cheaper non-transponder key or the more expensive transponder key it's important to find a reliable auto locksmith with worked with your model of vehicle.
Laser-Cut Keys
Some newer cars use keys with more advanced designs, known as laser cut keys or sidewinder key. These keys require the services of a locksmith or car dealer to cut them, and then program an electronic chip into the key. These keys are more expensive, but they offer better security. This is why they are considered to be a better investment for people who want to stop car theft.
Unlike regular two-sided keys, laser-cut keys have cuts in the center of the key only. These cuts are more precise and harder to duplicate than standard notches on regular key blades. They are also harder to detect, making them more effective in deterring thieves.
To make a laser-cut key, a locksmith or dealer uses a milling machine that is specifically designed for this purpose. These machines employ a tool that is shaped like a drill, to slowly strip the metal from the key. They can remove precisely the amount of metal needed for a specific key, allowing them to have the highest level of precision. This makes it more difficult for a thief cut their own duplicate.
Another reason why keys that are laser-cut are more secure than conventional keys is that they cannot be used to unlock similar vehicles like they would use regular keys. When a standard car key is used, it sends a signal the vehicle, which lets it recognize it. This is why the engine won't start in the event of detecting an unidentified key. However, laser-cut keys come with built-in transponders that are associated with a specific vehicle. This means that even if someone thief is able to cut and program a key laser-cut however, the engine will refuse to start.
To cut a laser-cut keys the technician needs to have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle to find the right specifications for it on the CNC machine. This process can take anywhere between 15 minutes to a few hours depending on the make and model of the vehicle in question. Once the correct specifications have been entered the key laser-cut is ready to be programmed by the locksmith or dealer.
Dealerships
The dealership is the most expensive however, it is the most often needed alternative to replace your car keys. The positive side is that a lot of times it can be covered by insurance or your warranty. It is advisable to check with your auto insurance provider to determine if key replacements are covered by the policy. It's also an excellent idea to get any stolen, lost, or damaged keys deprogrammed by the dealership, since this will ensure that no one else will be able to use them in the future.
If you have a standard key fob, replacing it at a dealership may be the most affordable alternative. If the key fob you have is not capable of cloning and has a chip built-in it might cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob can vary greatly depending on the model and make of your car, so it is recommended to speak with local dealerships, locksmiths or mechanics for an accurate price estimate.
You can also save money by having your spare key cloned at the dealership. It's cheaper to have it cloned by the dealership than by locksmith. However, you will need to ensure that your spare key works with your vehicle.
If you're replacing your vehicle key at the dealership or with a locksmith, it's important to to note down your vehicle identification number (VIN). This will ensure that the new key is of the correct size and can be paired with your vehicle. You should be able to find 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 the days of car keys being lost, it was no big deal. The advancements in technology in modern cars has made it harder to replace keys, and this could be costly. It's best to be prepared with a spare key with you or knowing what options you have for replacing your car keys in the event they get stolen or lost.