Cost of Car Key Replacement

It can be a huge trouble to lose your car keys, and costly to replace keys. Depending on the kind of keys you have, the costs can vary.

The best way to find out how much it will cost to replace the car key is to talk to the locksmith or dealer. Below is a list of the elements that could impact the price.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, sometimes referred to as chip keys, are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded within the keyhead. The chip transmits a coded signal to the immobilizer of the car when it is placed inside the ignition lock cylinder. The code is matched to a unique ID number that is linked to the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a vehicle because it isn't able to be started without the correct code.

The reason for the development of this type of key was to make it more difficult for thieves to wire the vehicle. Transponder keys require an unique code to be activated. These unique codes are very difficult to duplicate with regular tools and must be cloned by an auto locksmith.

As a result, the transponder key is more expensive than traditional bladed keys. The extra cost is worthwhile when you consider the security advantages of this type of key.

If you're considering getting a transponder-based key, first determine how important security is to you. Then consider your budget and lifestyle to determine whether or not the cost is worth it for you.

Dealerships charge a fee to replace keys for Cost of Car Key Replacement cars. This is because they have the exclusive rights to sell specific models of cars and have very high overheads. There are many professional car locksmiths who provide the same service but at lower cost.

If you aren't sure whether your car has a chip, you can inquire with your local auto locksmith or dealer. They'll be able determine if your vehicle is chip-equipped and can also help you determine the cost to purchase an upgrade. It's important to choose an auto locksmith with a good reputation who has experience with your car model, 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 the most advanced key design called laser cut keys or sidewinder key. These keys are cut by a locksmith or dealership and include an embedded computer chip in them. These keys are more expensive, but they offer better security. This is why they are considered a more beneficial investment for those who wish to avoid car theft.

Laser-cut keys differ from standard two-sided keys because they are only cut in the middle. These cuts are much more precise and are a lot harder to duplicate than the standard notches used on regular key blades. They are also harder to pick which makes them a great security measure for thieves.

A locksmith or dealer would employ a milling machine to create a laser-cut key. The machines utilize a bit that resembles a drill to slowly remove the key's metal. They can remove exactly the amount of metal needed for a specific key, which gives them an extremely high level of precision. This makes it harder for thieves to cut their own duplicate.

Laser-cut keys can also be more secure than traditional ones because they cannot be used to open other vehicles with the same key lock. When a regular key is placed in the car, it sends a signal that allows the vehicle to recognize it. The engine will not start if the key is not recognized. But, laser-cut keys have built-in transponders that are registered to a specific vehicle. This means that if a thief can program and cut a laser-cut key, the engine will not start.

To cut a laser-cut keys technicians 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 could take anywhere from 15 minutes to a few hours based on the model and make of the vehicle that is being considered. Once the correct specifications have been entered, the laser-cut key is now ready to be programmed by the locksmith or dealer.

Dealerships

Getting your car key replacement at the dealership might be the most expensive option however, it is usually necessary. The positive side is that a lot of times it can be covered by insurance or your warranty. It is advisable to check with your insurance company 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 by the dealership, since this will ensure that no one can make use of them in the future.

If you have a standard key fob, it might be the most affordable option to get it replaced at the dealership. If your key fob has a chip built in and cannot be duplicated, it will likely cost more money to have it replaced at the dealership or through a locksmith. The cost of a keyfob may vary widely based on the car's model and make. It is recommended to talk to local locksmiths, mechanics, or dealerships to get an accurate estimate.

Another method to cut costs is by bringing your spare key to the dealership and having it cloned there. It can be cheaper to have it cloned by the dealership than through a locksmith. However, you'll be sure to ensure that your spare key works with your vehicle.

Whether you're replacing your car key at the dealership or using a locksmith, it's important to make sure you record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will ensure that your replacement key fits correctly and can be paired to 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 wasn't an issue to lose the key to your car. The technology of modern vehicles has made it more difficult to replace keys and can be costly. It is recommended to be prepared with an extra key in your car or knowing what options you have for replacing your car key replacement cost keys in the event they are lost or stolen.