How to Avoid Expensive Replacement Car Key Costs
Losing, or misplacing keys to your car isn't an enjoyable experience. 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 be getting it done. Here are a few factors that influence the price of replacement keys for cars.
Model and Make of Your Vehicle
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing your car keys or losing it was not an issue. You could visit your local locksmith or hardware store and purchase a basic steel replacement key for pennies. Nowadays, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and so are their keys. This makes it harder for thieves to steal your vehicle but it also means that replacing a stolen or lost key is more expensive than in the past.
One of the biggest factors that affect the price of the replacement car key is the brand and model of your vehicle. Some manufacturers produce keys that are more complicated and technologically advanced than others. It is more difficult to duplicate or program keys for them. Additionally, some key fob features aren't available at all locksmith or auto shops, which means you'll need to visit the dealer to purchase those services.
There are many kinds of keys, each with its own set of expenses. Certain vehicles have the switchblade, which folds into a fob, similar in the design of a house key. They can cost as high as $125 to replace, whereas the basic chip keys usually cost less expensive.
The security of the keys also can have a significant impact on the cost. A majority of modern car keys come with anti-theft features to prevent them from being stolen by thieves. These features include the remote control, a microchip in the key and a secure code to prevent it from being scanned.
Smart keys that can open doors and start engines are the most secure. These keys can be cloned at some locksmiths and auto shops, but most dealerships will require you to bring the original key to them so they can match it to your vehicle. It can be a costly experience but it's a secure way to be sure your vehicle won't be taken by a criminal.
The Location
Replacement of the car key is not a pleasant experience. It can be a pain, and it can also be expensive. You can save money by knowing the cost of the repair before you call roadside assistance or visit the store. You can also get the most accurate estimate if you know what kind of car key you need and how old it is, and how much you're willing to spend for it.
The area you reside in is a significant element in the cost of replacing your car key. If you reside in an area that is rural for instance there could be fewer locksmiths to choose from, and the costs will be higher due to this. However when you live in a thriving city that has plenty of locksmith options, you are likely to find the best price on the replacement of your car keys.
Another thing to take into consideration is the time of year you're getting your keys replaced. Due to high demand the prices will rise during the summer. If you are able to get your transponder keys or the basic ones replaced until after the off-season you'll probably save a substantial amount of money.
As car technology has developed as have the cars' keys. They're no longer basic metal pieces, they're miniature electronic devices that have circuitry and a battery that are capable of doing many things. Car keys that have chip inside can cost between $220 and $350 to replace, based on the type of key you own as well as the overall key cutting cost, expenses related to a locksmith visit or towing, and the cost of programming.
You can also purchase cheaper car keys online or at some hardware stores. However, they may not be compatible with your vehicle or at work. If you're looking for a method to replace your car keys for less and quickly than through an auto dealer, give us a call today. We'll be more than happy to help! Our locksmiths are well-trained and knowledgeable. We employ the latest technology to deliver a quick and efficient service.
The Model and Make of the Key
In contrast to the days when you could walk into a hardware store and have an identical key made for pennies, the majority of modern cars use electronic components in their keys to accomplish everything from opening the doors to disable the car's immobilizer. If you lose your car key or you want to create an extra set, the process can be costly.
There are ways to lower the cost of purchasing new car keys. The first step is to understand the different types of car keys and how much they cost. The next step is to understand what factors can affect the cost of having a new key.
The type and model of your vehicle will have a major impact on the cost of a new key. Each manufacturer has their own unique key design. A lot of them come with advanced security features. The more advanced the key the more expensive you can expect to pay.
Many of the most recent models come with remote transmitters, referred to as key fobs. They require a code to connect them to the car. It can be costly to replace this kind of key, particularly when it is performed by an auto locksmith or dealer.
The type of key you're using will also impact how expensive it will be to create duplicate sets. If you own a traditional metal key, it will cost less to make a duplicate than if you own an all-in-one laser-cut keys. A car key that is laser-cut includes circuitry that needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. The cost of a new key will depend on the type of key you own.
Lastly, you should consider whether you have any insurance to cover the loss or damage of your keys. Some insurance companies offer an insurance program that covers the cost of replacing damaged or lost keys to cars up to a certain limit. This is a great solution when you have children at home or your car has been stolen.
Security Features
There are a myriad of things that can go awry when it is about automobiles. This is why it's crucial to have a solid car key replacement program in place before anything happens. A comprehensive key replacement plan can cover all kinds of keys and fobs, meaning 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 drive. Newer cars have many technological features which can make keys more expensive to replace. Certain push-to-start vehicles come with key fobs which need to be paired up via a computer. This is a lengthy expensive procedure that requires a professional.
Some newer models have specialized security features that can make keys harder to get. For instance, some have key fobs that lock the doors of the car if tampered with or have mirror folding capabilities. These key fobs are programmed by an authorized dealer and require a more intricate procedure. They may be more expensive to replace.
Certain newer cars have key fobs that have anti-theft features. They shut off the engine in case the key is stolen, or if it is broken out of the ignition. They can also be more expensive to replace because they need to be linked to the car using a special computer software that only a dealer has access to.
Some keys are now made in a switchblade design that is encased in plastic. They are more expensive due to the fact that they require a specific cutting tool. In certain instances, they can be replaced onsite by an automotive locksmith if you provide the model and year, along with evidence that you own the vehicle (like your registration or title).
Each of these variables could result in an enormous cost when it's time to get a new car key. It's crucial that drivers have a key replacement plan in place to avoid having to pay hundreds of dollars for replacement costs if they lose their keys.