Cost of Car Key Replacement
It can be a major trouble to lose your car keys and expensive to replace them. Depending on the kind of key you have, the price can differ.
The best method to determine the price to replace a car key is to speak with an auto locksmith or a dealership. Here is a list that includes several factors that can influence the cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are also known as chip keys. They contain a microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. When the chip is inserted in the cylinder for ignition it transmits a coded message to the immobilizer of the vehicle. The code is matched to an ID number attached to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a car because it can't be started without the code.
The reason for the development of this type of key was to make it harder for thieves to hot wire vehicles. Transponder keys require an unique code 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 bladed traditional keys. This cost is worth it if you think about the security benefits of this type of key.
Consider how important security is for you prior to deciding to get a transponder. Take into consideration your budget and your lifestyle to determine whether the additional cost is worth it to you.
Car dealerships typically charge a fee for key replacement services for cars. This is because they have the exclusive rights to sell certain models of cars and have high overheads. However, there are other car locksmiths that are professional and provide the same service for less money.
If you aren't sure whether your car has chips, you can inquire with your local auto locksmith or dealer. They will be able to tell you whether your vehicle has an electronic transponder and give you an estimate of the cost to get new keys. It's important to choose an auto locksmith with a good reputation who has experience working on your car model, regardless of whether you opt for the transponder that is less expensive 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 a laser cut key or sidewinder key. Keys are cut by a locksmith or dealership and include an embedded computer chip in the keys. They're more expensive, yet they offer better security. This is why they are regarded as a better investment by those who wish to avoid car theft.
Contrary to conventional two-sided keys laser-cut keys have cuts in the middle of the key only. These cuts are more precise and harder to duplicate than standard notches on regular key blades. They are also more difficult to discern which makes them a great deterrent for would-be thieves.
To create a laser-cut key, the locksmith or dealer utilizes a milling machine that is specifically designed for this purpose. The machines utilize a bit that resembles drills to slowly strip away the key's metal. They can remove precisely the amount of metal needed for a specific key and provide a high level of precision which makes it difficult for thieves to cut their own copy.
Laser-cut keys can also be more secure than traditional ones because they can't be used to open other cars with the same lock. When a standard car key is inserted it sends a signal the vehicle, which lets it recognize it. This is the reason why the engine will refuse to start in the event of detecting an unidentified key. Laser-cut keys have a built-in transponder that's registered to a particular vehicle. This means that even if a burglar can cut and program a laser-cut keys however, the engine will refuse to start.
A technician will need the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), of the vehicle, to locate the CNC machine's specifications to cut the laser. The process can take anywhere from 15 minutes up to a few days depending on the model and make of the vehicle. Once the correct specifications have been entered the key laser-cut is now ready to be programmed by the locksmith or dealer.
Dealerships
The dealership is the most expensive but it is often the best alternative to replace your car keys. The good news is that many times it can be covered by insurance or your warranty. It is best to consult with your insurance company to see if key replacements are covered by the policy. It's also a great idea to get any damaged keys, stolen or lost deprogrammed by the dealer, to prevent anyone from using them again in the future.
If remote car key replacement cost have a standard key fob, it might be the cheapest option to get it replaced at the dealership. If your key fob has a chip built in and isn't clonable it's likely to cost more money to have it replaced at the dealership or through a locksmith. The cost of a key fob could differ greatly based on the make and model of your car, therefore it's recommended to talk to local dealers, locksmiths or mechanics for a precise cost estimate.
Another option to save money is by bringing your spare key to the dealer and having it cloned there. This can be cheaper than having it copied by a locksmith, but you'll want to make sure your spare key is compatible with the vehicle you're using it.
It's important that you write down your VIN, whether you're getting your car key replaced at a dealership or a locksmith. This will ensure that your key replacement is correctly fitted and is paired with 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, it was not a big deal to lose a car key. However, the advancements in technology in modern automobiles has made it much more difficult to replace keys, and this can be very expensive. It's best to be prepared with a spare key with you, or know what your options are for replacing your car keys in the event that they are stolen or lost.