How to Avoid Expensive Replacement Car Key Costs
Losing, or misplacing, your car keys isn't exactly a pleasant experience. It can also cost a lot to replace them.
The cost of a brand new key can differ greatly based on its type, location it is manufactured and the method by which it is replaced. Here are a few factors that affect the price of replacement keys for cars.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing your car keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could buy a simple metal key at a local hardware store for a few dollars. Nowadays, cars are more technologically advanced and so are keys. This makes it much more difficult for thieves to steal a car however, it also increases the cost of replacing a lost or stolen key.
One of the main factors that affect the price of replacing a car key is the make and model of your car. Certain manufacturers make keys that are more complicated and high-tech than others. It will be harder to duplicate or program keys for them. Additionally, some key fob features aren't available at all locksmith or auto shops, meaning you'll need to visit the dealer for these services.
There are many kinds of keys and each has its own set of costs. For example, some vehicles have a switchblade key that folds into the fob, which is similar to a regular house key. Keys like these can cost as high as $125, while the basic chips are usually less.
Another crucial aspect that affects the price of a new key is the degree of security. A majority of modern keys are fitted with anti-theft features that prevent the key from being copied. These features include a remote control, microchip inside the key, and an encrypted code to stop the key from being scanned.
Smart keys that open doors and start engines are the most secure. Certain auto shops and locksmiths can clone these keys, but dealerships require to have your original key in order to pair it up with your vehicle. This is a costly process, but it's a good way to make sure your car isn't stolen.
The Location
The replacement of a car's key is not a pleasant experience. It's a hassle, and it can be expensive. You can save money by knowing the cost of the repair prior to when you contact roadside assistance or visit the store. You can also get the most accurate estimate when you know the type of car key you need and how old it is, and how much you're willing to pay for it.
The place you live is a big element in the cost of replacing your car key. If you reside in an area that is rural, for example there might be fewer locksmiths available from and prices will be higher due to this. If you reside in a city, you'll have numerous locksmiths to choose from, and you can get an affordable price for a car key replacement.
Think about the time of year you are changing your keys. Prices tend to be higher during the summer due to the increased demand. You can save money by waiting to replace your transponder or basic key until after the off-season.
The keys to cars have evolved with the advances in technology used in cars. They are no longer just metal pieces. They are electronic miniature devices with batteries and circuitry. The cost of replacing the car key with chip could vary from $220 to $350 depending on the factors like the type of key, the price 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 purchase cheaper car keys online or at some hardware stores. However, they might not be compatible with your vehicle or at work. Call us today if you want to replace your car key quicker and cheaper than at the dealership. We'll be delighted to assist you! Our locksmiths are highly educated and knowledgeable. We use the most advanced technology to provide prompt and professional service.
The Model and Make of the Key
Instead of the days where you could go to the hardware store and get a duplicate key made for pennies, today's modern cars use electronic parts in their keys to do everything from unlock the doors to disable the immobilizer. If car key replacements lose your car keys or you want to create an additional set, the process could be quite costly.
There are many ways to cut down the cost of purchasing new car keys. The first step is to understand the different types of keys and their costs. The next step is knowing what factors can affect the costs of getting a new key.
One of the main factors that determines the amount it will cost to purchase a new car key is the type and model of the vehicle. Every manufacturer has its unique key design. A lot of them come with advanced security features. The more complicated the key, the higher cost you'll be charged.
For instance, some of the latest models have remote transmitters (also called a key fob) that require a specific code to connect with the car. This type of key can be quite costly to replace, especially in the event that you have to visit a dealer or auto locksmith for help.
The kind of key you own will also impact how expensive it will be to create a duplicate set. If you have a traditional metal key, it will be much cheaper to make a duplicate than if it's one-of-a-kind laser-cut keys. A laser-cut key has circuitry inside of it that must be programmed to work with your vehicle therefore the cost of the replacement key will be different dependent on the type of key you own.
In the final analysis, you must consider whether you have any type of insurance to cover the loss or damage of your keys. Certain insurance companies offer a plan that covers the cost of replacing keys to damaged or lost car keys up to a certain limit. This is a great solution for parents with children at home, or if your car has been stolen.
Security Features
When it comes to cars there are plenty of things that can go wrong. That's why it's essential to have a good car key replacement plan in place before anything happens. 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.
One of the biggest factors that can affect the cost of replacing car keys is the kind of car you own. 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 with a computer. This can be a time-consuming expensive procedure that requires a specialist.
Some of the latest models come with security features that make it difficult to steal keys. For instance, some come with key fobs that can lock the doors of cars if modified or have mirror folding capabilities. The key fobs are programmed by an authorized dealer and require a more complex procedure. They can be more expensive to replace.
Finally, some newer vehicles come with key fobs equipped with anti-theft devices that disable the engine if the key is stolen or ripped off in the ignition. They are also more expensive to replace because they have to be connected with the vehicle via an exclusive computer software that only the dealer has access to.
Additionally, some modern keys are constructed using a switchblade that houses the metal component inside a plastic. They are more expensive due to the fact that they require a specific cutting tool. Some automotive locksmiths can replace keys on-site if you give them the information regarding the key, such as the 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 buy a new car keys. 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.