Cost of Car Key Replacement Losing your car keys can be an enormous hassle and can be expensive to replace. The cost can be different based on the type of key you have. The best method to determine how much it will cost to replace the car key is to talk to the locksmith or dealer. Here is a list that outlines several factors that can affect the cost. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, sometimes called chip keys, have an electronic micro-chip built into the keyhead. When the chip is placed in the cylinder for ignition and it sends a coded message to immobilizer of the vehicle. The code is matched to an ID number that is attached to the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a vehicle because it cannot be started without the proper code. This type of key was developed to make it more difficult for thieves to wire a vehicle. Transponder keys require a unique code in order to activate. cost for replacement car key are extremely difficult to duplicate using standard tools, and must be copied only by an auto locksmith. Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional bladed keys. This extra cost is worth it when you consider the security benefits of this type of key. Think about how important security is for you prior to deciding to purchase transponders. Then consider your budget and lifestyle to decide whether the additional cost is worth it for you. Dealerships charge a fee to replace keys for cars. It is because they are the only dealers of certain car models and have huge expenses. There are numerous professional locksmiths for cars that provide the same service for less cost. If you aren't sure if your car has chips, you can ask your local dealer or auto locksmith. They'll be able tell you whether or not your car has a chip and will also help determine the cost of getting a new one. It is essential to select an auto locksmith that is reputable and has experience with your vehicle model, regardless of whether you opt for the cheaper transponder or the more expensive non-transponder keys. Laser-Cut Keys Certain cars with modern technology have the most advanced key design called laser cut keys or sidewinder key. These keys require the services of a locksmith or car dealer to cut them, and then program an electronic chip into the key. While 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 protect their car from theft. Contrary to conventional two-sided keys laser-cut keys have cuts in the middle of the key only. These cuts are more precise and tougher to duplicate than standard notches on regular key blades. They are also more difficult to detect which makes them a great protection against thieves who might be. A locksmith or dealer would use a milling machine to create a laser-cut key. These machines use a bit that looks like an ax to slowly remove the key's metal. They can take out the exact amount of metal required for a particular key and provide a high level of precision that makes it more difficult 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 other similar cars like they could with standard key locks. When a standard car key is inserted it sends a signal to the vehicle, which lets it recognize it. The engine will not begin if the key is not recognized. However, laser-cut keys come with an embedded transponder that is registered to a specific car. This means that even if a burglar is able to cut and program a laser-cut keys however, the engine will refuse to start. To cut a key laser-cut, a technician will need to have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle to locate the proper specifications for it in the CNC machine. The process can take between 15 minutes to a few days based on the model and make of the vehicle. Once the correct specifications are entered the key laser-cut is ready to be programmed by the locksmith or dealer. Dealerships The dealership is the most expensive, however, it is the most often needed alternative to replace your keys to your car. The positive side is that a lot of times it can be covered by your warranty or insurance. Contact your insurance company to confirm that replacement for keys is included in the policy. It's also a great idea to get any damaged keys that are stolen, lost, or damaged removed by the dealer as this will prevent anyone from using them in the future. If you have a standard key fob, getting it replaced at a dealership may be the least costly option. However, if your fob has a chip built in and can't be cloned, it will likely cost more to get it replaced at the dealership or through locksmiths. The cost of a key fob may vary greatly depending on the model and brand of your car, therefore it's recommended to talk to local dealers, locksmiths or mechanics to get an accurate price estimate. Another way to cut costs is to take your spare key to the dealership and having it copied there. It's cheaper to have it cloned by the dealership rather than through a locksmith. However, you will be sure to ensure that your spare key works with your vehicle. If you're replacing your vehicle key at the dealership or using locksmiths, it's essential to to record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will help to ensure that the replacement key is a good fit and is compatible with your vehicle. You can locate 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 a big deal to lose the car keys. However, the advancements in technology in modern vehicles has made it much more difficult to replace them, and this could be extremely costly. Always keep a spare car key at the go or be aware of your options in case your keys are stolen or lost.
cost for replacement car key
