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Cost of Car Key Replacement

It can be a huge problem to lose your car keys, and expensive to replace them. The cost will vary based on the kind of car keys you are using.

Asking a locksmith or dealer for an estimate is the best way to learn how much it will be to replace a key. Below is a list of the factors that can influence the cost.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also called chip keys, are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded within the keyhead. When the chip is placed in the cylinder for ignition it transmits a coded message to immobilizer on the car. This code is in line with an ID number associated with the vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult to steal a vehicle because it can't be started without the code.

The main reason behind the development of this type of key was to make it more difficult for thieves to hot wire the vehicle. Transponder keys require an unique code in order to activate. These unique codes are very difficult to duplicate with regular tools and must be copied by an auto locksmith.

Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional bladed keys. However, this cost can be worth it in the end when considering the security advantages that come with this kind of key.

Consider how important security is for you before deciding to purchase transponders. Consider your budget and lifestyle to decide whether or not the expense is worth it for you.

Car dealerships typically charge a premium for the replacement of car keys. This is due to the fact that they are the sole dealers for certain models of cars and have huge expenses. Fortunately, there are many other cheap car key replacement near me locksmiths that are professional and offer the same quality service at lower prices.

If you're unsure if your car is equipped with a transponder chip, you can check with your local dealer or an auto locksmith. They'll be able to determine if your car has a chip and will also help determine the cost to purchase an upgrade. Whether you opt for the lower-cost non-transponder key or more expensive transponder keys, it's essential to locate a reputable auto locksmith who has expertise working with your particular model of car.

Laser-Cut Keys

Certain cars with modern technology have the most advanced key design that is known as a laser cut key or sidewinder key. These keys require a locksmith or car keys lost replacement dealership to cut them and program the computer chip inside the key. While they are more expensive than conventional keys, they also come with higher security features. This is why they are considered to be a better investment by people who want to stop car theft.

In contrast to regular two-sided keys laser-cut keys have cuts in the center of the key only. These cuts are more precise and are far more difficult to duplicate than the typical notches found on regular key blades. They are also difficult to discern and are a great protection against thieves who might be.

To make a key that is laser-cut, the locksmith or dealer utilizes an exclusive milling machine. These machines use a bit that looks like a drill to slowly remove the key's metal. They can remove the exact amount of metal required for the key in question, which gives them the highest level of precision that makes it more difficult for a criminal to cut their own duplicate.

Another reason why keys that are laser-cut are more secure than conventional keys is that they aren't able to be used to unlock similar vehicles like they would use regular keys. When a standard key is placed in the car, it sends an indication that allows the vehicle to recognize it. The engine won't start if the key is not recognized. But, laser-cut keys have an embedded transponder that is registered to a specific car. This means that if a burglar is able to cut and program a laser-cut key, the engine will not start.

Technicians will require the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), of the vehicle, to retrieve the CNC machine's specifications to cut the laser. The process can take between 15 minutes to a few days depending on the make and model 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, but often necessary option to replace your car keys. The positive side is that a lot of times, it is covered by insurance or your warranty. It is advisable to check with your insurance company to determine if replacement keys are covered by the policy. It is also a good idea to get any stolen, lost or damaged keys deprogrammed by the dealership, since this will ensure that no one else will be able to make use of them in the future.

If you have a standard key fob, replacing it at a dealer could be the least costly option. If your key fob is not replicable and comes with an embedded chip it could cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a key fob could vary greatly depending on the make and model of your vehicle, so it's recommended to talk to local locksmiths, dealers, or mechanics for an accurate price estimate.

You can also save money by having your spare key cloned at the dealership. This can be cheaper than having it copied by a locksmith, however you'll want to ensure that your spare key is compatible with your vehicle.

It's important that you write down your VIN, whether you're having your car keys replaced at a dealership or locksmith near me car key replacement. This will ensure that the replacement key fits correctly and can be connected to 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 wasn't an issue to lose the car keys. However, the advancements in technology in modern automobiles has made it much more difficult to replace keys, and this can be very costly. It's best to be prepared by carrying an extra key in your car key cover replacement, or know what your options are for replacing your car keys in the event they are lost or stolen.