Ten Cost Of Car Key Replacement That Will Actually Make Your Life Better Cost of Car Key Replacement

The loss of your car keys is an immense hassle and could be costly to replace. The cost can be different based on the kind of car keys you are using.

The best way to find out the price to replace the car key is to ask a locksmith or dealership. Below is a list of some of the elements that could impact the cost.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also referred to as chip keys, are equipped with an electronic micro-chip built into the keyhead. When the chip is placed in the ignition lock cylinder and it sends an encrypted message to the immobilizer of the car. The code is matched to an ID number that is attached to the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a vehicle since it cannot 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 hot wire a vehicle. Before this technology was invented, it was very simple for thieves to open cars by connecting two wires in a process called "hot wiring." The transponder keys are secure because they require a unique code to be activated. These unique codes are very difficult to duplicate using regular tools and must be copied by an auto locksmith.

In the end, the transponder key is more expensive than traditional bladed keys. However, this extra cost can be worth it in the long run when taking into account the security benefits of this kind of key.

Think about how important security is for you before deciding to get transponders. Consider your budget and lifestyle before deciding if the expense is worth it.

Car dealerships typically charge a premium for key replacement services for cars. It is because they are the sole dealers for certain models of cars and have high overheads. Fortunately, there are many other professional car locksmiths who provide the same service for less.

If you're unsure whether your car is equipped with a transponder chip, check with your local dealer or auto locksmith. They will be able to tell you whether your car is equipped with a transponder chip, and provide an estimate of the cost to get an entirely new key. Whichever you choose, lower-cost non-transponder key or more expensive transponder key it's important to locate a reputable auto locksmith who has experience working with your type of car.

Laser-Cut Keys

Some modern cars have the most advanced key design that is known as laser cut keys or sidewinder key. These keys are made by a locksmith or dealership and have an embedded computer chip in them. These keys are more expensive, yet they offer more security. This is why they are considered to be a better investment by those who want to prevent car theft.

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

To create key fob replacement -cut key, the locksmith or dealer utilizes a special milling machine. These machines use a bit designed like a drill to slowly strip the metal from the key. They can remove precisely the amount of metal needed for a specific key that gives them a high level of precision that makes it more difficult for thieves to make their own duplicate.

Another reason why keys made of lasers are more secure than conventional keys is that they cannot be used to unlock similar vehicles like they would use regular keys. When a regular key is put into the vehicle, it emits a signal that enables the vehicle to recognize it. The engine will not begin in the event that the key isn't recognized. Laser-cut keys have a built in transponder, which is tied to a specific vehicle. This means that if a thief is able to program and cut a laser-cutted key, the engine will not start.

To cut a laser-cut keys the technician needs to have the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle in order to retrieve the appropriate specs for it on the CNC machine. The process can take between 15 minutes to a few days based on the make and model of the vehicle. After the correct specifications have been completed, a laser-cut key is ready to be programmed by the locksmith or dealership.

Dealerships


The dealership is the most expensive but often necessary option to replace your car keys. It is often covered by your insurance or warranty. It is best to consult with your insurance company to see if key replacements are covered by the policy. It's also a great idea to have any damaged, lost or stolen keys deprogrammed by the dealer, since this will stop anyone from using them in the future.

If you have an ordinary key fob, it might be the most affordable alternative to replace it at the dealership. If your key fob has a built-in chip and can't be cloned, it will likely cost more to get it replaced at the dealership or through a locksmith. The cost of a keyfob may vary widely depending on the model of your car and make. It is best to contact local locksmiths, mechanics or dealerships to obtain an accurate estimate.

Another option to save money is by bringing your spare key to the dealership and having it copied there. This can be cheaper than having it copied by a locksmith, however you'll need to make sure that your spare key is compatible with your car.

If you're replacing your car key at the dealership or through a locksmith, it's important to take the time to record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will help to ensure that the replacement key is of the correct size and will be compatible with your vehicle. You can locate 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, it was not an issue to lose the car keys. The technology of modern vehicles has made it harder to replace keys and can be expensive. Always keep a spare car key at and ready in the event that your keys get lost or stolen.