Cost of Car Key Replacement
The loss of your car keys is an enormous hassle and can be costly to replace. Depending on the kind of keys you have, the price may vary.
A locksmith or dealer for an estimate is the best way to find out how much it will cost to replace keys. Here is a list that includes some of the factors which can influence the cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are also referred to as chip keys. They are equipped with a microchip that is embedded in the head of the key. The chip sends out an encrypted signal to the car's immobilizer when it is inserted into the ignition lock cylinder. This code is in line with an ID number attached to the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a vehicle because it cannot be started without the correct code.
The motivation behind the creation of this type of key was to make it harder for thieves to wire the vehicle. Before the invention of this technology, it was very simple for thieves to start cars by connecting two wires in a process known as "hot wiring." The transponder keys are so secure because they require a unique code to be activated. These unique codes are difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and must be copied by an auto locksmith.
This means that 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 of key.
If you're considering getting a transponder key, first decide on the importance of security to you. Take into consideration your budget and lifestyle to determine whether or not the expense is worth it for you.
Dealerships charge a fee to replace keys for cars. It is because they are the only dealers of certain models of cars and have large costs of operation. There are a variety of professional car locksmiths that offer the same service but at lower costs.
If you are unsure whether your car is equipped with a chip, you can consult your local auto locksmith or dealer. They can tell you whether your vehicle has a transponder chip, and provide you with an estimate of the cost for an entirely new key. If you decide to go with the cheaper non-transponder key or the more expensive transponder key, it's essential to find a reliable auto locksmith that has expertise working with your particular model of car.
Laser-Cut Keys
Some modern vehicles have a more sophisticated design for keys called a sidewinder or laser cut keys. These keys are made by a locksmith or dealer and come with an embedded computer chip in the keys. Although they are more expensive than standard keys, they do come with more security features. This is the reason why they're the best choice for those who are looking to protect their car from 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 difficult to duplicate than standard notches on regular blades. They are also more difficult to pick and therefore an effective deterrent to thieves.
A locksmith or dealer would make use of a milling device to create a key that is laser-cut. These machines use a bit that looks like a drill to slowly remove the key's metal. They can take out precisely the amount of metal needed for a particular key, allowing them to have a high degree of precision. This makes it difficult for thieves to cut their own duplicate.
Laser-cut keys are also more secure than traditional keys because they cannot be used to open other cars with the same lock. When a regular key is inserted into a car, it transmits a signal that allows the vehicle to recognize it. The engine will not begin in the event that the key isn't recognized. Laser-cut keys come with a transponder that's registered to a particular vehicle. This means that even if a burglar can cut and program a key laser-cut but the engine will refuse to start.
Technicians will require the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), of the vehicle, to retrieve the CNC machine's specifications to cut a laser-cutkey. The process can range between 15 minutes to a few hours depending on the model and make of the vehicle in question. Once the correct specifications are entered the key cut by laser can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
Dealerships
The process of replacing your car keys through the dealership can be the most expensive option, but it is often necessary. It is often covered by your insurance or warranty. It is best to consult with your auto insurance provider to see if key replacements are covered by the policy. It's also a good idea to have any stolen, lost, or damaged keys deprogrammed at the dealership, since this will ensure that no one else will be able to make use of them in the future.
If you have a standard fob replacing it by a dealership could be the least costly alternative. If your key fob is not replicable and comes with a built in chip it could cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a keyfob may vary widely based on the model of your car and model. It is recommended to talk to local locksmiths, mechanics or dealerships for a precise estimate.
You can also save money by having your spare key copied at the dealership. This is 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 having your car key replaced by a dealer or a locksmith. This will ensure that the replacement key is properly fitted and is 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, on the front of the engine block or in the owner's manual.
In the past, it wasn't a big deal to lose the car keys. However, the advanced technology of modern automobiles has made it more difficult to replace them, and this can be quite costly. car key and fob replacement is best to be prepared by having a spare key with you or knowing what your options are for replacing your car keys in the event they get stolen or lost.