Cost of Car Key Replacement
It can be a huge hassle to lose your car keys, and expensive to replace keys. The cost can be different based on the kind of car keys you have.
The best method to determine how much it will cost to replace the car key is to ask the locksmith or dealer. Here is a list that outlines some of the factors which could affect the price.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are also referred as chip keys. They contain an embedded microchip into the head of the key. When the chip is inserted in the ignition lock cylinder, it sends a coded message to the immobilizer on the car. This code matches an ID number that is attached to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a car since it isn't able to be started without the code.
The transponder key was developed to make it difficult for thieves to hot-wire the vehicle. Transponder keys require a unique code 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. This extra cost is worth it if you consider the security benefits of this type key.
If you're considering getting a transponder key, first decide on the importance of security to you. Take into consideration your budget and your lifestyle to determine whether or not the cost is worth it for you.
key replacement car charge a fee to replace car keys. This is due to the fact that they have exclusive rights to sell specific models of cars and have high overheads. There are a variety of professional car locksmiths who provide the same service for less rates.
If you aren't sure if your car has chip, consult your local dealer or auto locksmith. They can tell you if your car has an electronic transponder and give you an estimate of the cost for an entirely new key. Whether you opt for the lower-cost non-transponder key or more expensive transponder keys, it is essential to locate a reputable auto locksmith with worked with your model of vehicle.
Laser-Cut Keys
Some newer cars use keys with more advanced designs that is known as laser cut keys or sidewinder key. These keys require the services of a locksmith or car dealer to cut them and program the computer chip inside the key. While these keys are more expensive than standard ones, they also offer more security features. This is why they're an investment that is more beneficial for those who are looking to avoid car theft.
Unlike regular two-sided keys, laser-cut keys are cut in the center of the key only. These cuts are more precise and harder to duplicate than the standard notches on regular key blades. They are also more difficult to discern and are an effective deterrent to thieves.
A locksmith or dealer will employ a milling machine to create a key that is laser-cut. These machines use a bit that resembles a drill to slowly remove the key's metal. They can remove exactly the amount of metal needed for a particular key, giving them a high degree of precision. This makes it more difficult for thieves to make their own copy.
Laser-cut keys can also be more secure than conventional keys because they cannot be used to unlock other cars using the same key lock. When a regular car key is inserted, it sends a signal the vehicle that lets it recognize it. The engine won't start if the key is not recognized. Laser-cut keys, however, have a built-in transponder that is registered to a particular vehicle. This means that if a burglar can program and cut 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 the CNC machine. The process could take anywhere from 15 minutes to a few hours depending on the model and make of the vehicle that is being considered. After the correct specifications have been completed, a laser-cut key is ready to be programmed by the locksmith or dealership.
Dealerships
Finding a replacement for your car key at the dealership might be the most expensive option, however it is often the only option. It is usually covered by your insurance or warranty. Check with your auto insurance provider to confirm that key replacement is included in the policy. It is also an excellent idea to get 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, replacing it at a dealership may be the most affordable option. If your key fob is not clonable and has a built in chip it could cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob may vary widely based on the make and model of your car, so it's best to consult with local dealerships, locksmiths or mechanics for an accurate price estimate.
You can also save money by having your spare key copied at the dealership. This can be cheaper than having it cloned by a locksmith, however you'll need to make sure that your spare key is compatible with the vehicle you're using it.
If you're replacing your vehicle key at the dealership or through a locksmith, it's crucial to to record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will help to ensure that the new key is a good fit and is compatible with 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 the days of car keys being lost, it was not a major issue. Modern technology has made it more difficult to replace keys, and this can be costly. funny post should always have an extra car key on hand or know your options in the event that your keys get stolen or lost.
