Cost of Car Key Replacement
The loss of your cheap car keys replacement keys is a huge hassle and can be costly to replace. The cost can be different based on the type of key you are using.
The best way to find out the price to replace the car key is to speak with an auto locksmith or a dealership. Below is a list of some of the elements that could impact the cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are also known as chip keys. They have a microchip that is embedded inside the head of the key. The chip transmits an encoded signal to the immobilizer of the car when it is placed inside the ignition lock cylinder. The code is matched to an ID number attached to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a car because it cannot be started without the code.
The main reason behind the development of this type of key was to make it harder for thieves to heat wire the vehicle. Before the invention of this technology it was easy for thieves to start cars by connecting two wires, a process known as “hot wiring.” Transponder keys are secure because they require a unique code in order to be activated. They are extremely difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and need to be copied only by an auto locksmith.
In the end, 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.
If you’re considering getting a transponder key, first determine how important security is to you. Take into consideration your budget and your lifestyle before deciding if the additional cost is worth it.
Car dealerships often charge a premium for car key replacement services. This is due to the fact that they are the exclusive dealers of certain car models and have high overheads. There are a variety of professional car locksmiths that offer the same service for less cost.
If you’re unsure if your car has a transponder chip, you can check with your local dealer or an auto locksmith. They’ll be able to inform you if your vehicle has a chip and also help determine the cost to purchase a new one. It’s important to choose an auto locksmith with a good reputation who has experience working on your car type, whether you go for a cheaper transponder or the more expensive non-transponder keys.
Laser-Cut Keys
Some modern vehicles have a more sophisticated design for keys called a sidewinder or laser cut key. Keys are cut by a locksmith or dealership and have an embedded computer chip them. While these keys are more expensive than conventional keys, they also come with higher security features. This is why they are considered to be a better investment for those who want to prevent car theft.
Contrary to conventional two-sided keys laser-cut keys are cut in the middle of the key only. These cuts are more precise and are far more difficult to duplicate than the typical notches used on regular key blades. They are also harder to detect, making them more effective in deterring thieves.
To create a laser-cut key, dealers or locksmiths use an exclusive milling machine. These machines employ a tool that looks like drills to slowly strip away the key’s metal. They can remove precisely the amount of metal required for a particular key, giving them an extremely high level of precision. This makes it difficult for a thief cut their own copy.
Another reason why keys that are laser-cut are more secure than traditional keys is that they aren’t able to be used to unlock other similar cars like they could with regular key locks. When a regular key is placed in a car, it transmits an indication that allows the vehicle to recognize it. This is the reason why the engine won’t start when it detects an unidentified key. Laser-cut keys, however, have a built in transponder, which is tied to a specific vehicle. This means that if a thief can cut and program a laser-cut key, the engine will not start.
A technician will require the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), of the vehicle, to find the CNC machine’s specifications for cutting a laser-cutkey. The process can range between 15 minutes and several hours, depending on the make and model of the vehicle that is being considered. Once the correct specifications are entered, the laser-cut key is now ready to be programmed by the locksmith or dealer.
Dealerships
Getting your car key replacement car key (click through the next document) at the dealership might be the most expensive option, however, it is usually necessary. The positive side is that a lot of times, it will be covered by insurance or your warranty. It is advisable to check with your insurance company to determine if replacement keys are covered by the policy. It is also recommended to get any stolen, lost or damaged keys deprogrammed at the dealership, since this will ensure that no one can use them again in the future.
If you have a standard key fob it might be the most affordable alternative to replace it at the dealership. If your key fob is not capable of cloning and has a built in chip, it may cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob may vary greatly depending on the make and model of your car, so it’s recommended to talk to local locksmiths, dealers, or mechanics for an accurate cost estimate.
Another option to save money is to take your spare key to the dealer and having it cloned there. It’s cheaper to have it cloned at the dealership than by locksmith. However, you’ll need to ensure that the spare key is compatible with your vehicle.
It’s important that you record your VIN whether you’re getting your car key replaced at a dealership or locksmith. This will ensure that your key replacement key fobs for cars is correctly fitted and is paired with your vehicle. You should be able to find your VIN on the dashboard of your vehicle on the windshield at the corner of the windshield or on the front of the engine block or in the owner’s manual.
In the past, losing a car key was not a major issue. However, the technology of modern cars has made it much more difficult to replace keys, which can be very costly. You should always have an extra car key on the go or be aware of your options in the event that your keys are stolen or lost.