Cost of Car Key Replacement

The loss of your car keys is an enormous hassle and can be costly to replace. Based on the kind of keys you own, the cost can differ.

The best method to determine the cost to replace the car key is to talk to a locksmith or Cost of Car Key Replacement dealership. Below is a list of a few of the factors that can impact the price.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also called chip keys, contain an electronic microchip embedded within the keyhead. When the chip is placed in the ignition lock cylinder, it sends a coded message to immobilizer of the vehicle. The code is matched to an ID number that is attached to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle because it cannot be started without the correct code.

The transponder key was designed to make it difficult for thieves to hot-wire the vehicle. Before this technology was invented it was easy for thieves to open vehicles by connecting two wires using a technique called "hot wiring." Transponder keys are so secure because they require a unique code to be activated. They are extremely difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and must be duplicated only by an auto locksmith.

In the end, the transponder key is more expensive than traditional bladed keys. The extra cost is worth it if you consider the security benefits of this type of key.

If you're thinking of purchasing a transponder-based key, first determine how important security is to you. Take into consideration your budget and lifestyle to determine whether or not the cost is worth it for you.

Dealerships charge a premium to replace car keys. This is due to the fact that they are the only dealers of certain car models and have huge overheads. There are a variety of professional car locksmiths that offer the same service at lower rates.

If you aren't sure whether your cheap car key replacement has a chip, you can consult your local dealer or auto locksmith. They'll be able to inform you if your vehicle has a chip and will also help determine the cost of getting an upgrade. It is essential to select an auto locksmith that is reputable and has experience working on your car type, whether you go for the transponder that is less expensive or the more expensive keys that are not transponder-compatible.

Laser-Cut Keys

Certain cars with modern technology have the most advanced key design called laser cut keys or sidewinder key. These keys are made by a locksmith or dealer and come with an embedded computer chip in them. Although these keys are more expensive than conventional keys, they do come with superior security features. This is why they are regarded as a better investment by those who wish to avoid car theft.

In contrast to regular two-sided keys laser-cut keys are cut in the middle of the key only. These cuts are more precise and harder to duplicate than the standard notches on regular blades. They are also harder to detect, making them a better deterrent for thieves.

A locksmith or dealer would make use of a milling device to create a laser-cut key. The machines utilize a bit that looks like an ax to slowly remove the key's metal. They can take out precisely the amount of metal required to make a key, which gives them the highest level of precision. This makes it difficult for thieves to cut their own duplicate.

Another reason why keys that are laser-cut are more secure than traditional keys is because they can't be used to unlock similar cars like they could with regular key locks. When a normal car key is inserted, it sends a signal to the vehicle that lets it recognize it. The engine won't start when the key isn't recognized. But, laser-cut keys have a built-in transponder that is registered to a specific car. This means that if a burglar can cut and program a laser-cut key, the engine won't start.

To cut a laser-cut key the technician needs to have the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle in order to find the right specifications for it in the CNC machine. This process can last anywhere from 15 minutes up to a few days depending on the model and brand of the vehicle. Once the correct specifications are entered, a laser-cut key will be ready for programming by the locksmith or dealer.

Dealerships

The dealership is the most expensive but it is often the best option to replace your keys to your car. It is typically covered by your insurance or warranty. It is advisable to check with your insurance company to determine if replacement keys for cars keys are covered under the policy. It's also a good idea to have any lost, stolen or damaged keys deprogrammed by the dealership, since this will ensure that no one can use them again in the future.

If you have a standard key fob, it may be the most affordable alternative to replace it at the dealership. If your key fob is not clonable and has a chip built-in, it may cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob may vary greatly depending on the model and brand of your car, so it is recommended to speak with local locksmiths, dealers, or mechanics to get an accurate price estimate.

Another way to cut costs is to take your spare key to the dealership and having it cloned there. It is cheaper to have it copied at the dealership rather than through locksmith. However, you'll want to make sure that the spare key is compatible with your vehicle.

If you're replacing your vehicle key at the dealership or with locksmiths, it's essential to make sure you write down your vehicle identification number (VIN). This will ensure that your replacement key fits correctly and can be paired to your vehicle. You can locate your VIN on the dashboard of your vehicle or 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 an issue to lose the key to your car. The advancements in technology in modern cars has made it more difficult to replace keys, and this could be costly. Always keep an extra car key on and ready in the event that your keys are stolen or lost.