How to Avoid Expensive Replacement Car Key Costs
It's not fun to lose or misplace your car keys. However, it can cost a lot to replace them.
The cost of a replacement key can vary considerably depending on the type of key, how it's replaced and the location you'll get it completed. Here are a few of the main factors that determine the cost of replacing a car key.
Model and Make of Your Vehicle
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing your car key or losing it was not a big issue. You could go to your local hardware store or locksmith and purchase a basic steel replacement key for pennies. Nowadays, cars are much more advanced in technology, and so are their keys. This makes it harder for thieves to take your vehicle but it also means that replacing a lost or stolen key can be more expensive than in the past.
One of the main factors that determine the cost of a replacement car key is the make and model of your car. Certain manufacturers make keys that are more complicated and high-tech than other. This means that they will be more difficult to duplicate or create a new key. Additionally, certain key fob features aren't available at all locksmith or auto shops, meaning you'll need to go to the dealer for those services.
There are a variety of types of car keys and each has its own set of costs when it comes to purchasing a new one. For example, some vehicles utilize a switchblade type key that folds up into the fob, much like a standard house key. These keys can cost up to $125 to replace, however basic chip keys are usually less expensive.
The security of the key has a significant impact on its cost. The majority of modern car keys include anti-theft features to prevent them from being stolen by thieves. These features include a small remote control, a microchip within the key and a code that is encrypted that blocks it from being read by computers.
Smart keys that open doors and start engines are the most secure. They can be copied at a few auto and locksmith shops however, most dealerships require you to bring the original key with you so they can match it to your vehicle. It can be expensive however it's an effective way to ensure your car isn't stolen by a thief.
The Location
Replacement of the car key is not a pleasant experience. It's a hassle, and it can cost a lot. You can save money by knowing the price of the repair before you call roadside assistance or visit the store. You can also get the most accurate estimate when you know the type of car key you require and the age of the key, and how much you're willing to spend for it.
The place you live is a significant factor in the cost of your car key replacement. If you reside in an area that is rural, for example there could be fewer locksmiths to pick from and prices will be higher as a result. On the other hand when you live in a big city with plenty of locksmith choices, you are likely to find a competitive deal on your car key replacement.
Another thing to consider is the time of year you're replacing your keys. Prices tend to be more expensive during summer due to the increased demand. If you are able to get your basic or transponder keys replaced until the off-season you'll probably save some money.
As technology for cars has advanced, so do the keys for cars. They're no longer just simple metal pieces; they're tiny electronic devices that have batteries and circuitry that can do all sorts of things. Car keys that contain a chip inside can cost between $220 to $350 to replace, based on the kind of key you've got, the overall key cutting cost, expenses associated with a locksmith's visit or towing, and the cost of programming.
It's also worth mentioning that there are less expensive keys for cars you can buy on the internet or at certain hardware stores, but they may not work or even be compatible with your car. If you're looking for a way to replace your car keys more affordably and quickly than dealers, give us a call today. We'll be more than willing to assist! Our locksmiths are highly educated and skilled. We use the most advanced technology to provide a professional and fast service.
The Key's Make and Model
In contrast to the past where you could walk into a hardware shop and purchase a new key for pennies, today's automobiles use electronic components to open doors and disable the immobilizer. If you lose your car keys, or want to make an additional set, the process can be very expensive.
Fortunately, there are ways to reduce some of the costs when you require new car keys. The first step is to understand the different types of keys for cars and how they cost. The next step is determining what factors can increase overall costs of having the new key.
The model and type of your car will have a significant effect on the cost of the new key. Every manufacturer has its own unique key design, and a lot of them have sophisticated technological security features. The more sophisticated the key, the higher the price you will pay.
Many of the most recent models come with remote transmitters, also referred to as key fobs, that require a code to connect them with the car. This type of key can be very expensive to replace, particularly when you need to visit a dealer or auto locksmith for assistance.
The type of key you're using will also impact how expensive it will be to create a duplicate set. If you have a traditional metal key it will cost less to duplicate than if it's an all-in-one laser-cut key. A key cut by laser is a circuit that must be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. The cost of the new key will be contingent on the type of key you have.
Last but not least, you should check whether you have insurance coverage in case you lose or damage your keys. Certain insurance companies offer an insurance program that covers the cost of replacing damaged or lost car keys up to a certain limit. This is a great solution if you have children at home, or if your car was stolen.
Security Features
When it concerns cars there are plenty of things that could be wrong. It is important to prepare for the worst and have a replacement key ready in case something goes wrong. A comprehensive key replacement plan will cover a variety of keys and fobs, so you don't have to worry about the cost.
car replacement key of vehicle you own is among the most important factors that influence the cost of replacing car keys. The keys for newer vehicles are more expensive because of the technology. For example, some push-to-start vehicles have key fobs that require pairing with the vehicle via computers. This can be a time-consuming and costly process that requires a specialist.
Certain models are more modern and have security features that make it more difficult to steal keys. Certain key fobs are able to 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 specialized programming process that only a dealer can accomplish and are typically more expensive to replace than traditional keys made of metal.
Some newer cars come with key fobs equipped with anti-theft systems that will disable the engine in the event that the key is stolen or ripped off in the ignition. These are also more expensive to replace because they must be paired with the vehicle via a computer program that only the dealer has access to.
Additionally, some modern keys are made using a switchblade that houses the metal part inside a plastic. They are more expensive to replace as they require a different type of cutting tool. Some automotive locksmiths can replace these keys on the spot if you give them the information regarding the key, like its model and year and evidence of ownership (such as your registration or title).
All of these different factors can add up to a substantial cost when it's time to buy a new car keys. This is why it's crucial for drivers to have a reliable car key replacement program in place to ensure that they don't pay hundreds of dollars in replacement costs should they lose their keys or have to have them duplicated.