3 Ways That The Cost Of Car Key Replacement Can Affect Your Life
Cost of Car Key Replacement
It's a big problem to lose your car keys and expensive to replace keys. Depending on the kind of keys you have, the costs may vary.
A locksmith or dealer to provide an estimate is the best method to determine how much it will be to replace a key. Here is a list that includes some of the factors which can affect the cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, sometimes called chip keys, have an electronic microchip that is embedded in the keyhead. The chip sends out a coded signal to the immobilizer of the car when it is put into the ignition lock cylinder. This code matches an ID number that is attached to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle because it can't be started without the code.
This type of key was developed to make it difficult for thieves to heat-wire the vehicle. Transponder keys require an unique code to be activated. These unique codes are very difficult to duplicate with regular tools and must be cloned by an auto locksmith.
Transponder keys are more expensive than bladed traditional keys. However, this extra cost is usually worth it in the end when taking into account the security benefits that come with this kind of key.
If you're considering getting a transponder key, you must first consider the importance of security to you. Take into consideration your budget and your lifestyle before deciding if the additional expense is worth it.
Dealerships are charged a premium to replace keys for cars. This is because they have the exclusive rights to sell certain models of cars and have high expenses. There are numerous professional car locksmiths who provide the same service at lower costs.
If you're unsure if your car has chip, inquire with your local auto locksmith or dealer. They will be able to tell you whether your car is equipped with a transponder chip, and provide an estimate of the cost to purchase a new key. Whichever you choose, cheaper non-transponder key or the more expensive transponder key it is essential to find a reliable auto locksmith who has worked with your model of car.
Laser-Cut Keys
Certain newer cars use a more sophisticated design for keys known as a sidewinder or laser cut key. These keys are cut by a locksmith or dealer and include an embedded computer chip in the keys. Although they are more expensive than standard keys, they do come with superior security features. This is why they are considered to be a better investment by those who want to prevent car theft.
Laser-cut keys differ from regular two-sided key because they are only cut in the middle. These cuts are more precise and are far more difficult to duplicate than the typical notches used on regular key blades. They are also more difficult to pick and therefore a better deterrent for thieves.
A locksmith or dealer can make use of a milling device to make a laser-cutted key. These machines use a bit that resembles a drill to slowly remove the key's metal. They can take out the exact amount of metal needed for the key in question, which gives them an extremely high level of accuracy which makes it harder for thieves to make their own copy.
Another reason why keys that are laser-cut are more secure than traditional keys is that they aren't able to be used to unlock similar cars like they could with regular key locks. When a regular key is placed in a car, it transmits an indication that allows the vehicle to recognize it. The engine won't start when the key isn't recognized. Laser-cut keys, however, come with a transponder that is tied to a specific vehicle. This means that even if someone thief can cut and program a key laser-cut, the engine will still refuse to start.
To cut a key laser-cut technicians will need to have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle to retrieve the appropriate specs for it on the CNC machine. This process can last anywhere from 15 minutes up to a few days depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Once the correct specifications are entered, the laser-cut key is now ready to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
Dealerships
The dealership is the most expensive, but often necessary alternative to replace your keys to your car. The good news is that a lot of times it can be covered by insurance or your warranty. It is best to consult with your insurance company to see if key replacements are covered under the policy. It is also a great idea to get any damaged, lost or stolen keys removed by the dealer to prevent anyone from using them in the future.
If you have an ordinary key fob, it could be the cheapest option to get it replaced at the dealership. If your key fob isn't clonable and has a chip built-in, it may cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob can vary widely based on the model and brand of your vehicle, so it's recommended to talk to local dealerships, locksmiths or mechanics for a precise cost estimate.
Another option to save money is by bringing your spare key to the dealer and having it copied there. It can be cheaper to have it cloned by the dealership than through a locksmith. However, you'll want to make sure that the spare key is compatible with your vehicle.
Whether auto car key replacement replacing your car key at the dealership or through a locksmith, it's important to to record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will ensure that the replacement key is a good fit 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 wasn't a big deal to lose the key to your car. However, the advancements in technology in modern automobiles has made it much more difficult to replace them, and this could be extremely costly. Always keep a spare car key on and ready in case your keys are stolen or lost.