How to Avoid Expensive Replacement Car Key Costs
Misplacing, or even losing keys to your car isn't the most pleasant experience. And, unfortunately replacing them could be costly too.
The cost of a new key can differ greatly based on the type of key, the location it is manufactured and how it is replaced. Below are some of the main factors that affect the cost of a replacement car key.
Model and Make of Your Vehicle
A few years ago the loss or misplacement of your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could visit your local hardware store or locksmith and get a simple metal key replacement for a few pennies. Nowadays, automobiles are more advanced in technology and so are keys. This makes it more difficult for thieves to steal your vehicle, but it also means that replacing a stolen or lost key is more expensive than it was in the past.
The make and model of your vehicle is one of the most important factors that determine the cost of a new key replacement. Certain manufacturers make more complicated keys that are high-tech than others. This means that they'll be more difficult to replicate or program a new key for. Certain features on key fobs may not be available at all auto shops or locksmiths which is why you'll need go to the dealer to obtain the features you need.
There are many different types of keys, and each comes with its own set of costs. For car key replacements , some vehicles use a switchblade key that folds into the fob, which is similar to the standard house key. These can cost up to $125 to replace, however the basic chip keys usually cost less expensive.
Another important factor that affects the cost of a new key is the level of security. Most modern keys come with anti-theft features that prevent them from being copied. These features include a tiny remote control, a microchip in the key and a code that is encrypted that blocks it from being scanned by a computer.
Smart keys that open doors and start engines are the most secure. Certain auto shops and locksmiths are able to duplicate these keys, but dealerships require that you bring in your original key to them so that they can connect it to your vehicle. This is a costly process however it's a great method to ensure that your vehicle won't be stolen.
The Location
Car key replacement is not a pleasant experience. It can be a hassle, and it can also be expensive. However, you can save many of the expenses by knowing what it will cost prior to when you go to the store or contact assistance on the road. You can get the most accurate estimate when you have a clear understanding of the type of car key you need and what its age might be, and the amount of money you're willing to spend.
The location of your home is a major factor in the cost of a replacement key for your car. If you live in an area that is rural for instance there might be fewer locksmiths to choose from, and the costs will be higher as a result. However If you live in a large city that has plenty of locksmith options, you are likely to find the best price on the replacement of your car keys.
Think about the time of year you are replacing your keys. Due to the high demand, prices tend to increase during the summer. You can save money by waiting to replace your transponder or basic key until after the off-season.
The keys to cars have changed with the advances in technology used in cars. They are no longer simple metal pieces. They are electronic miniature devices that have circuitry and batteries. The cost of replacing the car key using chips can range from $220-$350 depending on the factors like the type of key, the cost to cut the key as well as the cost to tow or visit a locksmith, as well as the cost of programming the key.
You can also find less expensive car keys online or at some hardware stores. However, they might not be compatible with your car or work. If you're looking for an option to replace your car keys for less and quickly than an auto dealer, give us a call today. We'll be more than happy to help! Our locksmiths have a wealth of training and have years of experience. We use the latest technology to offer you a fast and professional service.
The Make and Model of the Key
Unlike the days when you could walk into a hardware store and have duplicate keys made for pennies, most modern cars use electronic components in their keys that accomplish everything from opening the doors to disable the car's immobilizer. This means that if you lose your car keys, or even just want to make a spare set, it could be quite costly.
There are ways to cut some of the costs when you need new car keys. The first step is to understand the various kinds of car keys and how much they cost. The next step is to determine which factors can impact the total cost of having 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 unique key design. Many of them have advanced security features. The more advanced the key more expensive you can anticipate to pay.
Some of the latest models have remote transmitters, also referred to as key fobs, which require an authorization code to pair them with your car. This type of key can be costly to replace, particularly when you need to visit a dealer or auto locksmith to get help.
The type of key that you have will also affect the cost of replicating it. A traditional metal key will cost less to duplicate than an all-in-one laser-cut key. Laser-cut keys have circuitry within it that must be programmed to work with your vehicle, so the price of the replacement key will differ depending on what type you own.
Not least, you should check whether you have insurance coverage in case you lose or damage your keys. Some insurance companies have a program to cover the cost of replacing damaged or lost car keys up to a certain limit. This is an excellent option to consider when you have children at home, or if your car was stolen.
Security Features
There are many things that could go wrong when it comes to cars. That's why it's essential to have a solid key replacement plan for your car in place prior to anything happening. A comprehensive plan for key replacement will cover a variety of keys and fobs, meaning you don't need to worry about cost.
The type of vehicle you own is one of the most important factors that can influence the cost of replacing car keys. The keys for more modern vehicles are more expensive because of the technology. For instance, some push-to start automobiles have key fobs which need to be paired with the vehicle via a computer. This process can be time-consuming and expensive, and requires a professional to do it correctly.
Some of the latest models come with security features that make it more difficult to steal keys. For instance, some models have key fobs that lock the doors of cars if altered or feature mirror folding capabilities. These key fobs require a more sophisticated programming procedure that only a dealer is able to do and are often much more expensive to replace than conventional metal keys.
Some newer cars include key fobs that have anti-theft devices that disable the engine if the key is stolen or broken off inside the ignition. These are also more costly to replace since they need to be linked to the vehicle using an exclusive computer software that only a dealer has access to.
Additionally, some of the newer keys are manufactured with a switchblade style that houses the metal part inside a plastic. They cost more because they require a cutting tool. In some cases, these can be replaced onsite by an automotive locksmith if you can provide the model and year, along with proof that you have the vehicle (like your registration or title).
Each of these variables can add up to a significant cost when it's time to purchase a new car key. It's important that drivers have a key replacement plan in place to avoid paying hundreds of dollars for replacement costs if they lose their keys.