Cost of Car Key Replacement
The loss of your car keys is an enormous hassle and can be expensive to replace. replacement key for car near me can vary depending on the kind of car keys you have.
Asking a locksmith or dealer to provide an estimate is the best way to find out how much it will cost to replace keys. Here is a list that includes some of the factors which can affect the cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are also known as chip keys. They contain a microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The chip transmits an encrypted signal to the car's immobilizer when it is inserted into the ignition lock cylinder. This code matches an ID number associated with the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a vehicle because it is not able to be started without a valid code.
The reason for the development of this type of key was to make it more difficult for thieves to heat wire vehicles. Transponder keys require a unique code to be activated. They are difficult to duplicate with standard tools, and must be copied only by an auto locksmith.
Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional bladed keys. The extra cost is worth it when you take into consideration the security advantages of this type of key.
If you're considering getting a transponder-based key, first decide on the importance of security to you. Consider your budget and lifestyle before deciding if the extra cost is worth it.
Dealerships charge a premium to replace car keys. This is due to the fact that they are the only dealers of certain models of cars and have huge overheads. Fortunately, there are many other car locksmiths that are professional and provide the same service for less money.
If you are unsure whether your car has a chip, you can inquire 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 for an entirely new key. If you decide to go with the cheaper non-transponder key or the more expensive transponder keys, it's important to find a reputable auto locksmith that has experience working with your type of vehicle.
Laser-Cut Keys
Some newer cars use keys with more advanced designs called laser cut keys or sidewinder key. These keys require a locksmith or car dealership to cut them and program an electronic chip into the key. Although they are more expensive than standard ones, they also offer more security features. This is why they're considered a better investment for those looking to avoid car theft.
Laser-cut keys are different from standard two-sided keys because they have only a cut in the middle. These cuts are more precise and difficult to duplicate than the standard notches on regular key blades. They are also more difficult to discern, making them an excellent deterrent for would-be thieves.
A locksmith or dealer would employ a milling machine to create a key that is laser-cut. The machines utilize a bit that resembles drills to slowly strip away the key's metal. They can take out precisely the amount of metal needed for a particular key, which gives them an extremely high level of precision. This makes it harder for thieves to make their own duplicate.
Another reason why laser-cut keys are more secure than conventional keys is that they cannot be used to unlock similar cars like they could with regular key locks. When a standard car key is used, it sends a signal to the vehicle that lets it recognize it. The engine will not start if the key is not recognized. However, laser-cut keys come with built-in transponders that are registered to a specific car. This means that even if a burglar manages to cut and program a laser-cut key however, the engine will not start.
To cut a laser-cut key, a technician will need to have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle in order to find the right specifications for the CNC machine. The process can take anywhere from 15 minutes up to a few days based on the model and make of the vehicle. 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 but it is often necessary. The positive side is that a lot of times, it will be covered by insurance or your warranty. Check with your auto insurance provider to make sure that replacement for keys is included in the policy. It's also a good idea to get any damaged keys that are stolen, lost, or damaged 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 an embedded chip it could cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob can differ widely based on the model of your car and make. It is best to contact local locksmiths, mechanics, or dealerships to obtain an accurate estimate.
You can also save money by having your spare key copied at the dealership. This is less expensive than having it copied by a locksmith, but you'll want to make sure your spare key is compatible with the vehicle you're using it.
It is essential to write down your VIN, whether you're having your car keys replaced by a dealer or a locksmith. This will ensure that the replacement key fits correctly and can be connected to your vehicle. You can find your VIN in the owner's manual, on your dashboard 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 key to your car. The advancements in technology in modern cars has made it harder to replace keys and this can be expensive. Always keep an extra car key on and ready in the event that your keys get lost or stolen.