How to Avoid Expensive Replacement Car Key Costs
It's not fun to lose or misplace your car keys. And, unfortunately, replacing them can be quite costly as well.
The cost of a replacement key could differ greatly based on the type of key, how it's replaced, and where you'll get it done. Here are a few elements that affect the cost of replacing car keys.
Model and Make of Your Vehicle
It wasn't long ago that misplacing your car keys or losing it was not a major issue. You could visit your local hardware store or locksmith and purchase a basic steel key replacement for pennies. Nowadays, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and so are their keys. This makes it more difficult for thieves to steal your car, but it also means that replacing a lost or stolen key is more expensive than it was in the past.
The model and make of your car is one of the most important factors that determine the cost of a new key replacement. Some manufacturers produce keys that are more complex and technologically advanced than others. It will be harder to duplicate or program keys for them. Some key fob features may not be available at all locksmith shops or auto shops which is why you'll need go to the dealer get them.
There are many kinds of car keys, and each one comes with its own set of costs when it comes time to purchase a new one. For example, some vehicles utilize a switchblade type key that folds up into the fob, which is similar to the standard house key. Keys like these can cost as high as $125, whereas basic chips are typically smaller.
The security of the key has a significant effect on the cost. A majority of modern keys are fitted with anti-theft functions to stop them from being copied. These features include a tiny remote control, a microchip within the key, and an encrypted code that prevents it from being scanned by computers.
The most secure keys are smart keys, which can open the doors and even start the engine. Keys can be duplicated at certain auto shops and locksmiths, but most dealerships will require you to bring the original key with you so they can connect it to your vehicle. This could be a costly experience, but it is a safe way to ensure your car won't be stolen by a burglar.
The Location
Replacement of the car key is not an enjoyable experience. auto key replacement can be a pain, and it can also cost a lot. You can save money by knowing the cost of the repair prior to when you call roadside assistance or go to the store. You can also get the most accurate estimate by knowing what kind of car key you need, how old it is and the amount you're willing to pay for it.
The location of your home is a major determinant in the cost of a new car key replacement. If you live in rural areas for instance, there may be fewer locksmiths to pick from, and the costs will be higher as a result. If you reside in a big city, you'll have numerous locksmiths to choose from and you can find the best price on a car key replacement.
Another thing to take into consideration is the time of year you're getting your keys replaced. Due to the high demand prices, they tend to rise during summer. If you're able to have your basic or transponder keys replaced until the off-season you'll probably save a significant amount of money.
The keys for cars have evolved with the advances in technology used in cars. They're not just simple metal pieces; they're electronic miniaturized devices that have circuitry and a battery that can do many things. Car keys with chips inside can cost between $220 and $350 to replace, based on the type of key you have as well as the overall cost of cutting the key, costs related to a locksmith visit or towing, as well as the cost of programming.
You can also find less expensive car keys online or in some hardware stores. However, they may not be compatible with your car or work. If you're looking for a way to replace your car keys more affordably and quickly than an auto dealer call us today. We'll be glad to assist you! Our locksmiths have extensive training and years of experience. We use the modern technology to provide you with rapid and efficient service.
The Model and the Make of the Key
Instead of the days where you could go to an hardware store and find duplicate keys made for pennies, most modern vehicles have electronic parts in their keys to perform everything from unlocking the doors to disable the car's immobilizer. If you lose your car key or need to make an additional set, the process could be very expensive.
There are ways to cut some of the costs when you're in need of new car keys. The first step is to understand the various types of keys for cars and how much they cost. The next step is to understand what factors could increase the total cost of having the replacement key.
The model and type of your car will have a major impact on the price of the new key. Every manufacturer has its distinct key design. A majority of them come with advanced security features. The more sophisticated the key, the higher the price you will pay.
For instance some of the most recent models come with remote transmitters (also called key fobs) that require a special code to connect with the car. This kind of key could be quite costly to replace, particularly if you have to visit a dealer or auto locksmith for help.
The kind of key you own will also affect how costly it is to make a duplicate set. A traditional metal key is less expensive to duplicate than an all-in-one laser-cut key. A key cut by laser is a circuit that must be programmed to function with the vehicle. The cost of a new key will vary on the kind you have.
Finally, you should think about whether you have any type of coverage for losing or damaging your keys. Some insurance companies have a program to cover the cost of replacing lost or damaged car keys, up to a limit. This is a great option to consider when you have children at home, or if your car has been stolen.
Security Features
When it comes to cars, there are a lot of things that could go wrong. It's important to be prepared and have a replacement key in place before anything goes wrong. A comprehensive program for key replacement can cover a number of different keys and fobs so that you don't have to worry about the cost.
The kind of car you own is among the most important factors that influence the cost of replacement car keys. The keys for more modern vehicles will be more expensive due to the advancement of the technology. Certain push-to-start vehicles come with key fobs which require pairing via computer. This can be a time-consuming expensive procedure that requires a professional.
Certain models are more modern and have security features that make it harder to steal keys. Certain key fobs can secure the doors of the car in the event of a malfunction or have mirror folding abilities. Key fobs that have this feature require a more sophisticated programming procedure that only dealers can perform and are usually more expensive to replace than traditional metal keys.
Finally, some newer vehicles come with key fobs equipped with anti-theft devices that disable the engine in the event that the key is stolen or cut off in the ignition. They are also more expensive to replace as they have to be linked to the car through a special computer program that only dealers have access to.
Certain keys are now manufactured with a switchblade style that is encased in plastic. They are more expensive to replace as they require a different type of cutting tool. Some locksmiths for automotive are able to replace these keys on-site if you provide them with the details of the key, including its model and year, and proof of ownership (such as your registration or title).
All of these factors can add up to an enormous bill when it's time to purchase a new car key. It is essential that car owners have a key replacement plan in place to avoid paying hundreds of dollars in replacement costs when they lose their keys.