Cost of Car Key Replacement

It's a big trouble to lose your car keys, and costly to replace them. Based on the kind of key you have, the price may vary.

Asking a locksmith or dealer to provide an estimate is the best way to find out how much it will cost to replace a key. Below is a list of the variables that could affect the price.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, sometimes called chip keys, are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded within the keyhead. When the chip is placed in the cylinder for ignition it transmits a coded message to immobilizer of the car. The code is matched to an ID number attached to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle because it isn't able to be started without a valid code.

The motivation behind the creation of this type of key was to make it harder for thieves to wire vehicles. Before this technology came along it was quite easy for thieves to start vehicles by connecting two wires using a technique known as "hot wiring." Transponder keys are secure because they require a unique code in order to be activated. These unique codes are very difficult to duplicate with regular tools, and must be copied by an auto locksmith.

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

Consider how important security is for you before deciding to purchase transponders. Consider your budget and Cost of Car Key Replacement lifestyle before deciding if the additional expense is worth it.

Dealerships charge a premium to replace keys for cars. This is due to the fact that they have exclusive right to sell certain models of vehicles and have high costs of operation. Fortunately, there are many other locksmiths for cars who provide the same service for less.

If you're not sure if your vehicle has a transponder chip, check with your local dealer or auto locksmith. They'll be able determine if your vehicle has a chip and can also help you determine the cost to purchase an upgrade. Whether you opt for the less expensive non-transponder keys or the more expensive transponder keys, it's important to find a reputable auto locksmith that has experience working with your type of vehicle.

Laser-Cut Keys

Certain cars with modern technology have the most advanced key design that is known as a laser cut key or sidewinder key. These keys are made by a locksmith or dealer and include a computer chip programmed in the keys. Although they are more expensive than conventional keys, they do come with higher security features. This is the reason why they're an investment that is more beneficial for those looking to protect their car from theft.

Laser-cut keys are different from standard two-sided keys because they only have a cut in the middle. The cuts are more precise and are a lot harder to duplicate than the standard notches found on regular key blades. They are also difficult to discern and are a great protection against thieves who might be.

To create a laser-cut key, a locksmith or dealer uses a milling machine that is specifically designed for this purpose. These machines use a bit that looks like an ax to slowly remove the key's metal. They can remove precisely the amount of metal needed for a particular key, allowing them to have an extremely high level of precision. This makes it difficult for a thief cut their own duplicate.

Another reason why laser-cut keys are more secure than conventional keys is that they aren't able to be used to unlock similar cars like they could use regular keys. When a standard key is inserted into the car, it sends an indication that allows the vehicle to recognize it. The engine will not begin if the key is not recognized. However, laser-cut keys have built-in transponders that are associated with a specific vehicle. This means that even if a thief can cut and program a laser-cut key however, the engine will not start.

To cut a laser-cut key technicians will need to have the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle to locate the proper specifications for it on the CNC machine. The process could take anywhere between 15 minutes to several hours, depending on the make and model of the vehicle in question. Once the correct specifications have been entered, the laser-cut key is now ready to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.

Dealerships

Finding a replacement for your car key at a dealership is the most expensive option however, it is usually necessary. The good news is that a lot of times it can be covered by insurance or your warranty. Check with your auto insurer to ensure that key replacement is included in the policy. It is also a good idea to have any stolen, lost, or damaged keys deprogrammed by the dealership, as this will ensure that no one will be able to use them in the future.

If you have an ordinary key fob, it may be the most affordable option to get it replaced at the dealership. However, if your fob has a chip built in and can't be cloned it is likely to cost more money to have it replaced at the dealership or by locksmiths. The cost of a key fob can differ widely based on your car's model and make. It is best to contact local locksmiths, mechanics or dealerships to obtain an accurate estimate.

You can also save money by having your spare key copied at the dealership. This is less expensive than having it cloned by a locksmith, however you'll want to ensure that your spare key is compatible with the vehicle you're using it.

It's important that you record your VIN whether you're getting your car key replaced by a dealer or locksmith. 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 or 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 car keys. Modern technology has made it harder to replace keys, and this can be costly. It is recommended to always keep a spare cheapest car key replacement key at the go or be aware of your options in the event that your keys are stolen or lost.