Cost of Car Key Replacement
Losing your car keys is an enormous hassle and can be costly to replace. Based on the kind of keys you own, the cost can vary.
The best way to find out the price to replace a car key is to talk to an auto locksmith or a dealership. Below is a list of some of the variables that could impact the price.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, sometimes called 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 since it cannot be started without the correct code.
The motivation behind the creation of this type of key was to make it harder for thieves to heat wire a vehicle. Before the invention of this technology, it was very simple for thieves to open vehicles by connecting two wires, a process known as "hot wiring." The transponder keys are so secure because they require a unique code in order to be activated. They are difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and need to be duplicated only by an auto locksmith.
As a result, the transponder key is more expensive than conventional bladed keys. However, this extra cost is often worth it in the end when considering the security benefits that come with this type of key.
Consider how important security is for you before you decide to get a transponder. Then consider your budget and your lifestyle to determine whether or not the expense is worth it for you.
Car dealerships typically charge a premium for the replacement of car keys. This is due to the fact that they are the exclusive dealers of certain models of cars and have huge expenses. There are numerous professional locksmiths for cars that provide the same service at lower rates.
If you aren't sure if your car has chip, ask your local auto locksmith or dealer. They'll be able to tell whether your vehicle has a transponder chip and also provide an estimate of the cost to get new keys. If you decide to go with the cheaper non-transponder key or the more expensive transponder keys, it is essential to locate a reputable auto locksmith who has worked with your model of vehicle.
Laser-Cut Keys
Some newer cars use keys with more advanced designs, known as a laser cut key or sidewinder key. These keys require the services of a locksmith or car dealer to cut them, and then program the computer chip inside the key. Although they are more expensive than conventional ones, they also offer superior security features. This is why they are regarded as a better investment by those who want to prevent car theft.
car key button replacement -cut keys differ from regular two-sided key because they only have a cut in the middle. The cuts are more precise and far more difficult to duplicate than the typical notches that are found on standard key blades. They are also difficult to pick which makes them a great deterrent for would-be thieves.
A locksmith or dealer would use a milling machine to make a laser-cutted key. The machines utilize a bit shaped like a drill to slowly remove the metal from the key. They can take out the exact amount of metal needed for the key in question and provide a high level of precision which makes it harder for a thief to cut their own duplicate.
Laser-cut keys can also be more secure than traditional ones since they are not able to open other vehicles with the same lock. When a normal key is put into the car, it sends a signal that allows the vehicle to recognize it. The engine won't start in the event that the key isn't recognized. Laser-cut keys have a built in transponder that's registered to a particular vehicle. This means that if a thief can cut and program a laser-cut key, the engine won't start.
To cut a laser-cut key, a technician will need to have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle in order to locate the proper specifications for it on the CNC machine. The process can range from 15 minutes to several hours, depending on the make and model of the vehicle being examined. Once the correct specifications are entered, the laser-cut key can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
Dealerships
The dealership is the most expensive however, it is the most often needed alternative to replace your car keys. It is usually covered by your insurance plan or warranty. Check with your auto insurer to make sure that key replacement is included in the policy. It's also a good idea to get any damaged keys that are stolen, lost, or damaged deprogrammed by your dealer, to prevent anyone from using them again in the future.
If you have an ordinary key fob, it could be the most affordable option to replace it at the dealership. If your key fob is not clonable and has a built in chip, it may cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob could vary widely based 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 method to cut costs is to bring your spare key with you to the dealership and having it cloned there. It can be cheaper to have it cloned by the dealership than by a locksmith. However, you'll need to ensure that your spare key works with your vehicle.
If you're replacing your vehicle key at the dealership or using locksmiths, it's essential to to record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will help ensure that the new key is a good fit and will be compatible with your vehicle. You should be able to find your VIN on the dashboard of your car or on the side of 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 wasn't a big deal to lose a car key. The advancements in technology in modern cars has made it harder to replace keys, and this could be costly. It is recommended to always keep an extra car key on the go or be aware of your options in the event that your keys get stolen or lost.