Cost of Car Key Replacement Losing your car keys is an immense hassle and could be costly to replace. The cost can vary depending on the type of key you are using. A locksmith or dealer for an estimate is the best way to find out how much it will cost to replace a key. Below is a list of the elements that could affect the cost. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are also known as chip keys. They have an embedded microchip in 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. This code is unique to the ID number that is connected to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle because it can't be started without the code. The transponder key was created to make it more difficult for thieves to heat-wire a vehicle. Before this technology was invented it was easy for thieves to start vehicles by connecting two wires using a technique known as hot wiring. The transponder keys are extremely secure due to the fact that they require a specific code to be activated. These codes are difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and should be duplicated only by an auto locksmith. Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional bladed keys. However, this extra cost is often worth it in the end when taking into account the security advantages 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 lifestyle to determine whether or not the cost is worth it to you. Dealerships charge a premium to replace car keys. This is due to the fact that they have the exclusive rights to sell certain models of cars and have high overheads. There are replacement car key costs for cars who provide the same high-quality service for less. If you're unsure if your car is equipped with a transponder chip, inquire with your local dealer or an auto locksmith. They'll be able to tell whether your car is equipped with an electronic transponder and provide an estimate of the cost to purchase a new key. It's important to choose an auto locksmith with a good reputation who has experience with your car type, whether you go for the cheaper transponder or the more expensive keys that are not transponder-compatible. Laser-Cut Keys Certain newer cars use keys with more sophisticated designs called a sidewinder, or laser cut keys. Keys are cut by a locksmith or dealer and have an embedded computer chip them. They're more expensive, yet they offer greater security. This is why they're an investment that is more beneficial for those looking to avoid car theft. Unlike regular two-sided keys, laser-cut keys are cut in the middle of the key only. These cuts are much 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 an excellent protection against thieves who might be. To make a key that is laser-cut, the locksmith or dealer utilizes a milling machine that is specifically designed for this purpose. These machines employ a tool that resembles drills to slowly strip away the key's metal. They can take out the exact amount of metal needed for a particular key and provide an extremely high level of accuracy which makes it harder for thieves to make their own copy. Laser-cut keys are more secure than traditional keys because they cannot be used to open other cars with the same lock. When a normal car key is inserted it sends a signal the vehicle, which allows it to recognize it. The engine won't start when the key isn't recognized. Laser-cut keys, however, come with a transponder that's tied to a specific vehicle. This means that even if a thief is able to cut and program a laser-cut key however, the engine will not start. To cut a laser-cut keys 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 can take between 15 minutes to a few days, depending on the model and make of the vehicle. Once the correct specifications are entered, the laser-cut key can be programmed by the locksmith or dealer. Dealerships The dealership is the most expensive but it is often the best option to replace your car keys. The good news is that a lot of times it can be covered by insurance or your warranty. It is advisable to check with your auto insurance provider to see if key replacements are covered under the policy. It's also a good idea to have any damaged keys, stolen or lost deprogrammed by the dealer, since this will stop anyone from using them in the future. If you have an ordinary key fob, it may be the least expensive option to get it replaced at the dealership. If your key fob is not clonable and has an embedded chip it might cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob may vary greatly depending on the model and make of your vehicle, so it is recommended to speak with local dealers, locksmiths or mechanics to get an accurate cost estimate. You can also save money by having your spare key cloned at the dealership. This is cheaper than having it copied by a locksmith, however you'll need to make sure that your spare key is compatible with your vehicle. If you're replacing your vehicle key at the dealership or with a locksmith, it's important to make sure you record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will help ensure that the new key is a good fit and is compatible with your vehicle. You should be able to find your VIN on the dashboard of your car or 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, it was not an issue to lose a car key. Modern technology has made it more difficult to replace keys and could be costly. It's best to be prepared with an extra key in your car, or know what your options are to replace your car keys in the event they are stolen or lost.
replacement car key costs
