Cost of Car Key Replacement

It can be a major hassle to lose your car keys and costly to replace them. The cost can vary depending on the type you are using.

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

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, sometimes referred to as chip keys, have an electronic microchip embedded within the keyhead. When the chip is placed into the cylinder of the ignition lock and it sends a coded message to the immobilizer of the car. The code is matched to an ID number attached to the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a vehicle since it isn't able to be started without the code.

The reason for the development of this type of key was to make it more difficult for thieves to hot wire a vehicle. Transponder keys require a distinct code in order to activate. These unique codes are difficult to duplicate using regular tools and must be cloned by an auto locksmith.

Transponder keys are more expensive than bladed traditional keys. However, the extra cost is usually worth it in the end when taking into account the security advantages that come with this type of key.

If you're thinking of purchasing a transponder key, first decide on the importance of security to you. Take into consideration your budget and lifestyle to decide whether or not the added cost is worth it for you.

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

If you're unsure whether your car has a transponder chip, consult your local dealer or auto locksmith. They'll be able determine if your vehicle has a chip and also help determine the cost to purchase a new car key replacement one. It is essential to select an auto locksmith that is reputable and has experience with your vehicle model, regardless of whether you opt for a cheaper transponder or the more expensive non-transponder keys.

Laser-Cut Keys

Some modern vehicles have a more sophisticated key design called a sidewinder or laser cut keys. These keys require the services of a locksmith or car dealer to cut them and program a computer chip in the key. They are more expensive, but they provide more security. This is why they are considered to be a more beneficial investment for people who want to stop car theft.

In contrast to regular two-sided keys laser-cut keys are cut in the center of the key only. These cuts are more precise and are a lot harder to duplicate than the standard notches found on regular key blades. They are also harder to pick, making them an excellent deterrent for would-be thieves.

A locksmith or dealer would use a milling machine to create a key that is laser-cut. The machines utilize a bit that is shaped like a drill, to gradually strip the metal from the key. They can remove exactly the amount of metal required for a specific key, which gives them an extremely high level of precision. This makes it difficult for a thief cut their own copy.

Laser-cut keys can also be more secure than conventional keys because they cannot be used to open other vehicles with the same lock. When a normal key is inserted into the vehicle, car key replacement it emits a signal that allows the vehicle to recognize it. This is the reason why the engine will refuse to start in the event of detecting an unidentified key. But, laser-cut keys have built-in transponders that are registered to a specific vehicle. This means that if a burglar is able to program and car key replacement cut a laser-cutted key, the engine will not start.

To cut a key laser-cut the technician needs to have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle to locate the proper specifications for it in the CNC machine. The process can range between 15 minutes and several hours, depending on the make and model of the vehicle being examined. Once the correct specifications are entered, a laser-cut key will be ready for programming by the locksmith or dealer.

Dealerships

Getting your car key replacement at a dealership is the most expensive option but it is often necessary. The good news is that many times it can be covered by your warranty or insurance. It is advisable to check with your auto insurance provider to determine if replacement keys are covered by the policy. It is also recommended to get any stolen, lost or damaged keys deprogrammed by the dealership, as this will ensure that no one will be able to use them again in the future.

If you have an ordinary key fob, it could be the cheapest alternative to replace it at the dealership. If your key fob is not clonable and has an embedded chip, it may cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob can vary greatly depending on the make and model of your car, therefore it's recommended to talk to local locksmiths, dealers, or mechanics for a precise price estimate.

You can also save money by having your spare key cloned at the dealership. This can be cheaper than having it copied by a locksmith, but you'll want to ensure that your spare key is compatible with your car.

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 is properly fitted and can be paired to your vehicle. You can locate your VIN in your 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 technology of modern vehicles has made it more difficult to replace keys and this could be costly. It's best to be prepared by carrying an extra key on hand, or know what your options are to replace your car keys in the event they get stolen or lost.