15 Things You've Never Known About Cost Of Car Key Replacement

Cost of Car Key Replacement

It can be a major hassle to lose your car keys and it can be costly to replace them. Depending on the kind of key you have, the costs may vary.

A locksmith or dealer for an estimate is the best way to find out the cost to replace the key. Below is a list of the variables that could impact the cost.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are also referred as chip keys. They contain a microchip that is embedded in the head of the key. When the chip is placed in the ignition lock cylinder and it sends a coded message to immobilizer of the vehicle. This code matches an ID number associated with the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a car because it is not able to be started without the proper code.

This kind of key was designed to make it difficult for thieves to hot-wire the vehicle. Transponder keys require an unique code in order to activate. These unique codes are very difficult to duplicate using standard tools, and must be copied by an auto locksmith.

As a result, the transponder key is more expensive than conventional bladed keys. However, the extra cost is often worth it in the long run when considering the security benefits of this kind of key.

Think about how important security is for you prior to deciding to get a transponder. Consider your budget and lifestyle before deciding if the extra expense is worth it.

Car dealerships usually charge a premium for the replacement of car keys. This is because they have exclusive rights to sell certain models of vehicles and have high overheads. However, there are other car keys replacements locksmiths that are professional and provide the same service at lower prices.

If you aren't sure if your car has chips, you can ask your local dealer or auto locksmith. They will be able to tell you whether your car is equipped with an electronic transponder and provide an estimate of the cost to get a new key. It is essential to select an auto locksmith with a good reputation who has experience working on your car model, regardless of whether you opt for a cheaper transponder or the more expensive non-transponder keys.

Laser-Cut Keys

Some newer cars use keys with more advanced designs that is known as laser cut keys or sidewinder key. These keys are cut by a locksmith or dealership and have an embedded computer chip them. These keys are more expensive, but they provide better security. This is why they are considered a better investment for people who want to stop car theft.

Laser-cut keys differ from standard two-sided keys because they have only a cut in the middle. These cuts are much more precise and far more difficult to duplicate than the standard notches used on regular key blades. They are also more difficult to pick and therefore a better deterrent for thieves.

A locksmith or dealer can make use of a milling device to make a laser-cutted key. The machines utilize a bit that resembles an ax to slowly remove the key's metal. They can remove exactly the amount of metal required for a specific key, giving them the highest level of precision. This makes it difficult for a thief cut their own copy.

Another reason why laser-cut keys are more secure than traditional keys is that they aren't able to be used to unlock similar vehicles like they would use regular keys. When a regular car key is inserted it sends a signal to the vehicle which allows it to recognize it. This is why the engine won't start in the event of detecting an unidentified key. However, laser-cut keys have an embedded transponder that is registered to a specific vehicle. This means that even if a burglar manages to cut and program a key laser-cut but the engine will not start.

To cut a laser-cut keys, a technician will need to have the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle in order to locate the proper specifications for it in the CNC machine. The process can range between 15 minutes and a few hours based on the make and model of the vehicle that is being considered. Once the correct specifications are entered the key cut by laser can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.

Dealerships

Getting your emergency car key replacement near me key replacement at a dealership is the most expensive option but it is often necessary. The good news is that a lot of times, it is covered by your warranty or insurance. Contact your insurance company to make sure that key replacement is included in the policy. It is also a good idea to have any stolen, lost or damaged keys deprogrammed at the dealership, as this will ensure that no one else will be able to use them again in the future.

If you have a standard fob getting it replaced by a dealership could be the cheapest option. If your key fob has a chip built in and cannot be duplicated it's likely to cost more money to have it replaced at the dealership or through locksmiths. The cost of a key fob may vary widely based on the model and Cost of Car Key Replacement brand of your car, so it is recommended to speak with local dealerships, locksmiths or mechanics for a precise price estimate.

Another method to cut costs is to bring your spare key with you to the dealer and having it cloned there. It's cheaper to have it cloned at the dealership than through locksmith. However, you will want to make sure that your spare key works with your vehicle.

It is essential to write down your VIN, whether you're getting your car key replaced by a dealer or a locksmith. This will ensure that the replacement key is of the correct size and will be compatible 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 an issue to lose the car keys. The advancements in technology in modern cars has made it harder to replace keys and can be expensive. It's best to be prepared by carrying an extra key on hand, or know what options you have to replace your car keys in the event that they get stolen or lost.