Five Things You Don't Know About Cost Of Car Key Replacement

Cost of Car Key Replacement

Losing your car keys can be an immense hassle and could be costly to replace. Depending on the type of key you own, the cost will vary.

Contacting a locksmith or dealer for an estimate is the best way to find out how much it will cost to replace the key. Here is a list that outlines several factors that can affect the cost.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also referred to as chip keys, are equipped with an electronic micro-chip built into the keyhead. When the chip is placed in the ignition lock cylinder, it sends an encrypted message to the immobilizer of the vehicle. This code matches a special ID number that is attached to the vehicle. This makes it extremely 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 a vehicle. Before this technology was invented, it was very simple for thieves to open vehicles by connecting two wires using a technique known as "hot wiring." The transponder keys are so secure because they require a specific code to be activated. These unique codes are very difficult to duplicate with regular tools, and must be copied by an auto locksmith.

As a result, the transponder key is more expensive than conventional bladed keys. This cost is worth it when you take into consideration the security benefits of this type key.

Think about how important security is for you before you decide to purchase transponders. Take into consideration your budget and your lifestyle before deciding if the additional cost is worth it.

Dealerships charge a premium to replace car keys. This is due to the fact that they are the sole dealers for certain models of cars and have high costs of operation. There are numerous professional locksmiths for cars that provide the same service for less cost.

If you're not sure if your car is equipped with a transponder chip, inquire with your local dealer or auto locksmith. They'll be able tell you whether or not your vehicle has a chip and also help determine the cost of getting a new one. If you decide to go with the cheaper non-transponder key or the more expensive transponder key it is essential to find a reputable auto locksmith who has experience working with your type of vehicle.

Laser-Cut Keys

Some newer cars use a more advanced key design, known as laser cut keys or sidewinder key. These keys require an auto dealer or locksmith to cut them and program the computer chip inside the key. These keys are more expensive, but they provide better security. This is why they are considered a more beneficial investment for people who want to stop car theft.

Laser-cut keys are different from regular two-sided key because they have only a cut in the middle. These cuts are more precise and near harder to duplicate than the standard notches on regular key blades. They are also harder to discern which makes them a great protection against thieves who might be.

To make a laser-cut key, the locksmith or dealer utilizes a special milling machine. These machines employ a tool 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 replacements for cars, which gives them an extremely high level of accuracy which makes it difficult for a thief to make their own duplicate.

Laser-cut keys are also more secure than traditional ones because they cannot be used to open other cars with the same lock. When a regular key is placed in the vehicle, it emits a signal that allows the vehicle to recognize it. This is why the engine will refuse to start in the event of detecting an unidentified key. However, laser-cut keys come with built-in transponders that are registered to a specific car. This means that if someone can cut and program a laser-cut key, the engine won't start.

To cut a laser-cut keys, a technician will need to have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle in order to retrieve the appropriate specs for it on the CNC machine. The process could take anywhere from 15 minutes to several hours, depending on the make and model of the vehicle that is being considered. Once the correct specifications have been entered, the laser-cut key is ready to be programmed by the locksmith or dealer.

Dealerships

Getting your car key replacement through the dealership can be the most expensive option, however, it is usually necessary. The positive side is that a lot of times, it will be covered by your warranty or insurance. You should check with your insurance company to see if key replacements are covered by the policy. It is also a great idea to get any damaged keys that are stolen, lost, or damaged deprogrammed by the dealer, since this will stop anyone from using them again in the future.

If you have a standard fob, getting it replaced by a dealership could be the most affordable alternative. If your key fob is not capable of cloning and has an embedded chip, it may cost more to replace it at the dealership. The price of a keyfob can vary widely based on the model of your car and model. It is best to contact local locksmiths, mechanics, or dealerships for a precise estimate.

You can also save money by having your spare key cloned at the dealership. This is cheaper than having it cloned by a locksmith, however you'll need to make sure that your spare key is compatible with your vehicle.

It's essential to record your VIN whether you're getting your car key replaced at a dealership or a locksmith. This will ensure that the replacement key is of the correct size and is compatible 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, on the front of the engine block, or in the owner's manual.

In the past, it was not a big deal to lose the car keys. The advancements in technology in modern cars has made it harder to replace keys and this can be expensive. It's best to be prepared by having a spare key with you, or know what your options are to replace your car keys in the event that they are stolen or lost.