Cost of Car Key Replacement
It can be a huge hassle to lose your car keys and it can be costly to replace keys. The cost can vary depending on the type of key you have.
A locksmith or dealer to provide an estimate is the best way to learn how much it will be to replace the key. Here is a list that includes the various factors that can influence the cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, sometimes referred to as chip keys, have an electronic micro-chip built into the keyhead. When the chip is inserted in the cylinder for ignition, it sends a coded message to the immobilizer on the car. The code is matched to an ID number that is attached to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a car because it cannot be started without a valid code.
The motivation behind the creation of this type of key was to make it harder for thieves to heat wire a vehicle. Before spare car key replacement www.g28carkeys.co.uk came along, it was very simple for thieves to start vehicles by connecting two wires, a process known as "hot wiring." The transponder keys are secure because they require a unique code in order to be activated. They are extremely difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and should be duplicated only by an auto locksmith.
Transponder keys are more expensive than bladed traditional keys. This extra cost is worth it when you take into consideration the security advantages of this type key.
If you're thinking about purchasing a transponder key, first consider the importance of security to you. Consider your budget and lifestyle before deciding if the additional expense is worth it.
Car dealerships often charge a premium for car key replacement services. This is because they have exclusive rights to sell specific models of cars and have very high costs of operation. There are numerous professional locksmiths for cars that provide the same service for less rates.
If you're unsure whether your car is equipped with a transponder chip, you can consult your local dealer or auto locksmith. They can tell you whether your vehicle has an electronic transponder and provide an estimate of the cost to get new keys. Whichever you choose, less expensive non-transponder keys or the more expensive transponder key, it is essential to find a reliable auto locksmith with expertise working with your particular model of vehicle.
Laser-Cut Keys
Certain newer cars use a more sophisticated design for keys called a sidewinder or laser cut keys. These keys are cut by a locksmith or dealer and come with a computer chip programmed in the keys. These keys are more expensive, but they offer better security. This is why they are regarded as a better investment by those who wish to avoid car theft.
Unlike regular two-sided keys, laser-cut keys have cuts in the middle of the key only. The cuts are more precise and are a lot harder to duplicate than the typical notches used on regular key blades. They are also more difficult to pick and therefore more effective in deterring thieves.
To create a laser-cut key, a locksmith or dealer uses a milling machine that is specifically designed for this purpose. The machines utilize a bit shaped like a drill to slowly strip the metal from the key. They can remove the exact amount of metal required for the key in question and provide the highest level of precision which makes it harder for thieves to cut their own copy.
Another reason why keys made of lasers are more secure than conventional keys is that they aren't able to be used to unlock other similar vehicles like they would with standard key locks. When a regular key is inserted into the car, it sends a signal that allows the vehicle to recognize it. This is the reason why the engine will refuse to start if it detects an unrecognized key. Laser-cut keys, however, have a built in transponder that's tied to a specific vehicle. This means that if a thief is able to program and cut a laser-cut key, 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 to locate the proper specifications for it in the CNC machine. This process can last anywhere from 15 minutes up to a few days, depending on the model and brand of the vehicle. Once the correct specifications have been entered the key cut by laser is ready to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
Dealerships
Finding a replacement for your car key at a dealership is the most expensive option, however, it is usually necessary. It is often covered by your insurance or warranty. You should check with your insurance company to see if key replacements are covered by the policy. It's also recommended to have any lost, stolen or damaged keys deprogrammed at the dealership, as this will ensure that no one else will be able to use them in the future.
If you have an ordinary key fob, it may be the most affordable option to get it replaced at the dealership. If your key fob has a built-in chip and cannot be duplicated, it will likely cost more to have it replaced at the dealership or through a locksmith. The cost of a key fob could vary widely based on the model and brand of your car, so it is recommended to speak with local dealerships, locksmiths or mechanics for a precise price estimate.
Another way to cut costs is by bringing your spare key with you to the dealership and having it copied there. It's cheaper to have it copied at the dealership rather than through locksmith. However, you will want to make sure that the spare key is compatible with your vehicle.
If you're replacing your car key at the dealership or with a locksmith, it's important to make sure you record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This will ensure that your replacement key fits correctly and can be paired 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 the days of car keys being lost, it was no big deal. The technology of modern vehicles has made it more difficult to replace keys, and this could be costly. You should always have an extra car key on hand or know your options in the event that your keys get lost or stolen.