How to Avoid Expensive Replacement Car Key Costs
It's not pleasant to lose or lose your car keys. And, unfortunately replacing them can be quite costly as well.
The cost of a brand new key varies greatly based on its type, location it is manufactured and the method by which it is replaced. Here are some of the factors that influence the cost of replacing car keys.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
A few years ago losing or misplacing your car key was not a big deal. You could buy a simple metal key at your local hardware store for a few dollars. Keys and automobiles are technologically advanced today. This makes it much more difficult for thieves to steal vehicles, but also increases the cost of replacing a stolen or lost key.
The model and make of your car is one of the most important factors that determine the cost of a replacement key. Some manufacturers produce keys that are more complicated and high-tech than others. It is more difficult to duplicate or program keys for these models. Furthermore, certain key fob features aren't available at all locksmiths or auto shops, meaning you'll need to visit the dealer for those services.
There are a variety of keys and each has its own set of expenses. For example, some vehicles have a switchblade key that folds into the fob, much like a standard house key. These keys can cost up $125, while the basic chips are typically smaller.
The security of the key also has a significant effect on its cost. A majority of modern car keys come with anti-theft features to prevent them from being stolen by thieves. These features include a remote control, microchips in the keys and a code that is encrypted to stop the key from being scanned.
Smart keys that open doors and start engines are the most secure. They can be copied at a few auto shops and locksmiths however, most dealerships require you to bring the original key with you to connect it to your vehicle. This can be costly, but it's a good way to make sure your car won’t be stolen.
The Location
Replacement of the car key is not an enjoyable experience. It can be a pain and can cost a lot. You can save money by knowing the price of the repair before you call roadside assistance or go to the store. You can get the most accurate estimate when you are aware of what type of car key you require and what its age might be, and the amount of you're willing to spend.
The location of your house is a major determinant in the price of a new car key replacement. In rural areas, there are less locksmiths and therefore higher costs. However, if you live in a large city with a wide range of locksmith options, then you can probably find an affordable price for the replacement of your car keys.
Another thing to think about is the time of year when you're having your keys replaced. Prices are usually more expensive during summer due to the increased demand. If you're able to have your transponder or basic keys replaced until the off-season, then you'll likely save a substantial amount of money.
The keys of cars have evolved along with the car technology. They're not just basic metal pieces, they're tiny electronic devices that have batteries and circuitry that are capable of doing all sorts of things. The cost to replace the car key using chip could range from $220-$350 based on factors like the type of key, the cost to cut the key and the cost of towing or visit a locksmith, as well as the cost of programming the key.
It's also worth mentioning that there are less expensive keys for cars you can buy from the internet or in some hardware stores, but they might not function or be compatible with your vehicle. Call us today if you want to replace your car key more quickly and affordably than at an auto dealer. We'll be delighted to assist you! Our locksmiths have extensive training and have years of experience. We employ the latest technology to provide professional and fast service.
The Model and Make of the Key
Unlike the days when you could walk into a hardware store and have duplicate keys made for pennies, the majority of modern automobiles have electronic components in their keys that accomplish everything from opening the doors to turn off the car's immobilizer. If you lose your car keys, or want to make an extra set, the process could be very expensive.
There are ways to cut down on some of the costs when you need new car keys. The first step is understanding the different types of keys and the costs. The next step is to determine which factors can impact the overall cost of getting a replacement key made.
The type and model of your vehicle will have a significant effect on the cost of a new key. Every manufacturer has its own distinctive key design, and lots have advanced technological security features. The more sophisticated the key is more expensive you can anticipate to pay.
For example some of the most recent models come with remote transmitters (also called key fobs) that require a special code to connect with the car. It is expensive to replace this type of key, particularly when it's done by an auto locksmith or dealer.
The type of key you own will also impact the cost of replicating it. A traditional metal key is less expensive to duplicate than an all-in-one laser-cut key. A laser-cut key has circuitry inside that needs to be programmed to work with your car, so the price of the replacement key will be different according to the type of key you own.
Not least, it is important to determine whether you have insurance coverage in case you lose or damage your keys. Some insurance providers provide a service that covers the cost of replacing keys that are damaged or lost up to a specific limit. This is a great solution for parents with children at home or if your car was stolen.
Security Features
There are a myriad of things that can go wrong when it concerns cars. auto replacement key is important to prepare for the worst and have a replacement key in place before anything goes wrong. A comprehensive key replacement program can include a variety of different keys and fobs, so you don't need to worry about the cost.
The kind of car you own is one of the most important factors that influence the cost of replacement keys for your car. Newer cars have a lot of technology which can make keys more expensive to replace. Certain vehicles with push-to-start have key fobs that require pairing with a computer. This can be a time-consuming expensive procedure that requires a specialist.
Some newer models have specialized security features that make keys harder to steal. For instance, some models have key fobs that secure the doors of the car if tampered with or have mirror folding capabilities. Key fobs that have this feature require a specialized programming procedure that only a dealer is able to do and are often much more expensive to replace than traditional keys made of metal.
Additionally, some of the latest vehicles include key fobs that have anti-theft devices that disable the engine if the key is stolen or ripped off inside the ignition. They are also more costly to replace since they have to be linked to the vehicle using a specific computer program which only dealers have access to.
Some keys are now produced with a switchblade style that protects the metal part with plastic. They cost more because they require a cutting tool. In some instances, they are able to be replaced on site by an automotive locksmith if you provide them with the key's model and year, along with evidence that you have ownership of the vehicle (like your registration or title).
All of these factors can result in a substantial bill when it's time to purchase a new car key. It's important that drivers have a replacement car key plan in place to avoid paying hundreds of dollars in replacement costs when they lose their keys.