Are Cost Of Car Key Replacement The Best Thing There Ever Was? Cost of Car Key Replacement

It can be a major problem to lose your car keys and costly to replace keys. Depending on the kind of keys you have, the costs can vary.

The best way to find out the price to replace keys to your car is to talk to an auto locksmith or a dealership. Here is car replacement keys of some of the factors which can affect the cost.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are also referred as chip keys. They contain a microchip that is embedded inside the head of the key. The chip transmits a coded signal to the immobilizer of the car when it is inserted into the ignition lock cylinder. This code is unique to the ID number that is attached to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle since it is not able to be started without the proper code.

The motivation behind the creation of this type of key was to make it more difficult for thieves to wire vehicles. Transponder keys require an unique code to activate. These unique codes are difficult to duplicate using standard tools and must be cloned by an auto locksmith.

This means that the transponder key is more expensive than traditional bladed keys. This extra cost is worth it when you take into consideration the security advantages of this type key.

If you're thinking about purchasing a transponder-based key, first consider the importance of security to you. Think about your budget and lifestyle before deciding if the additional cost is worth it.

Dealerships are charged a premium to replace keys for cars. It is because they are the sole dealers for certain car models and have huge costs of operation. However, there are other car locksmiths that are professional and provide the same high-quality service at lower prices.

If you aren't sure if your car has a chip, you can inquire with your local dealer or auto locksmith. They will be able to tell you if your car has a transponder chip and also provide you with an estimate of the cost for a new key. If you decide to go with the cheaper non-transponder key or the more expensive transponder keys, it's important to locate a reputable auto locksmith who has expertise working with your particular model of vehicle.

Laser-Cut Keys

Certain newer cars use a more sophisticated design for keys called a sidewinder, or laser cut keys. Keys are cut by a locksmith or dealership and come with an embedded computer chip in them. They are more expensive, but they provide greater security. This is why they are considered a better investment by people who want to stop car theft.

Laser-cut keys are different from regular two-sided key because they have only a cut in the middle. These cuts are more precise and harder to duplicate than the standard notches on regular key blades. They are also harder to pick and therefore more effective in deterring thieves.

A locksmith or dealer would use a milling machine to make a laser-cutted key. These machines use a bit that resembles an ax to slowly remove the key's metal. They can take out precisely the amount of metal needed to make a key, giving them a high degree of precision. This makes it more difficult for thieves to cut their own copy.

Laser-cut keys are also more secure than traditional ones since they are not able to open other cars with the same lock. When a standard key is put into the car, it sends a signal that enables the vehicle to recognize it. The engine won't start when the key isn't recognized. Laser-cut keys have a built-in transponder that's associated with a specific vehicle. This means that even if someone thief is able to cut and program a laser-cut keys but the engine will not start.

To cut a laser-cut keys, a technician will need to have the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle to retrieve the appropriate specs for it in the CNC machine. The process could take anywhere from 15 minutes to a few hours depending on the make and model of the vehicle that is being considered. Once the correct specifications are entered, a laser-cut key can be programmed by the locksmith or dealership.


Dealerships

Getting your car key replacement at the dealership might be the most expensive option however it is often the only option. It is often covered by your insurance or warranty. It is advisable to check with your insurance company to determine if replacement keys are covered by the policy. It's also a great idea to get any damaged, lost or stolen keys deprogrammed by your dealer, since this will stop anyone from using them in the future.

If you have a standard key fob it may be the most affordable alternative to replace it at the dealership. If your key fob isn't replicable and comes with a chip built-in it might cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob may vary greatly depending on the model and brand of your car, so it's recommended to talk to local dealerships, locksmiths or mechanics for an accurate price estimate.

Another way to cut costs is to take your spare key to the dealer and having it copied there. It's cheaper to have it cloned by the dealership rather than through a locksmith. However, you will want to make sure that your spare key works with your vehicle.

If you're replacing your vehicle key at the dealership or through a locksmith, it's crucial to make sure you write down your vehicle identification number (VIN). This will help to ensure that the replacement key is a good fit and can be paired with your vehicle. You can locate your VIN in your 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 no big deal. The technology of modern vehicles has made it more difficult to replace keys and can be costly. It is recommended to always keep a spare car key at the go or be aware of your options in the event that your keys are lost or stolen.