Car Replacement Key Cost - How to Save 50% by Hiring a Tasker
It is possible that you will have to pay lots of money to replace your lost car keys. You can save up to 50 percent by using a Tasker instead of visiting the dealership.
The most common method is to use an auto locksmith. However, they might not have the necessary equipment for the latest models.
The Make and Model of Your Vehicle
Car keys and key fobs are miniature electronic devices that contain circuitry and a battery to serve their purpose. They can be quite expensive just to manufacture, despite not having the extra features that are typically found on modern keys, like remote start and keyless entry. These features can make a key replacement even more costly as they require special hardware which is often difficult to find or develop.
The cost of a car key replacement is also influenced by the year, make and model of your vehicle. The reason is that modern cars have more sophisticated key systems, which could cause them to be more costly to replace. A lot of these keys include transponder chips that require pairing by a dealer or locksmith with the vehicle in order for them to function correctly.
These chips can add anywhere from $75 to $200 to the total cost of making a brand new key, and they can increase the cost when you've lost the original key or have a push-to-start or smart key fobs that need to be programmed.
The type of key you require will also impact the cost. Key fobs with standard features are the cheapest, but must be programmed and cut to match your car. Keys that include a transponder chip, and laser-cut keys that have a narrower shank and a less serrated edge are more expensive.
In some instances it is possible to purchase an additional key directly from the manufacturer. It is more affordable to visit locksmiths, but it will take longer. This option is worth considering if you own a car however, you should verify your warranty or roadside service coverage to determine whether the cost will be covered. Also, consider where you plan to get your key replaced. This can have a big impact on the cost.
The Technology of Your Keys
In the last 30 years, car key replacements have advanced dramatically. From simple metal keys to high-end transponder chips that require a unique key fob to open the doors and start the car, modern automobile security features are making our vehicles more secure than ever. These security measures increase the cost of replacing lost keys.
The type of key you've got will determine how much it costs to replace it. The most affordable keys are those made of metal that do not have a chip. However, they're not as secure as other types of keys. Transponder keys is one that contains a chip that communicates with the car's internal system, will cost more to replace. These keys must be programmed by an auto locksmith or by a dealer in order to work.
Another expensive type of key is a smart key, which utilizes a proximity sensor to unlock and start your vehicle. These are typically utilized in more sophisticated vehicles. Keys can be expensive to replace, and also require a specific key fob that can read the key's information.
You might also have to replace the battery on your keyfob. This is not a common problem, but it can occur and cost money if it does happen. You can usually get replacement batteries at your local hardware store for less than $10. You could also ask a car dealer for assistance or call roadside assistance. However these options can be costly and not always available.
A spare key will help you save money if you lose yours. The storage of a spare key in your home or office is less expensive than trying to get a new key made on the side of the road. Spending a few dollars now on a spare car key is far better than losing your vehicle and spending a lot of money to replace it.
The make, model and year of your car will determine how much it will cost to replace keys. Make sure you keep your key safe and never leave it in the car.
What type of key do you need?
Many of us have at some time lost keys to our car. Fortunately, for the majority of us, our cars appear like a fairy tale and we rush out the door, not thinking about the dangers in losing those precious keys. However, for those whose keys have slipped into some alternate dimension or even been flushed down the toilet (we do not wish to think about that), finding replacements can be a huge hassle and a significant cost.
Car key replacements vary in cost based on a number of different aspects. The type of key is a major factor as some keys are more difficult to replace. Metal keys are the most common, because they're mechanical. Any locksmith can replace them. But certain keys, like key fobs and smart keys are a bit more difficult. They are equipped with a transponder chip that must be paired to the vehicle through a dealership or auto locksmith. These keys can be more expensive than ordinary metal keys.
The kind of key you need will also determine where you have to go to get it replaced. If your car is equipped with a push-to-start button or a key fob that has a switchblade, they will only be available through a dealer and will probably cost you upwards of $200. If your key has transponder chips but is a traditional key, you can get it duplicated by a locksmith for an affordable cost.
In addition to the type of key you'll also need to think about whether or not the replacement will require a computer program be activated. If your key requires a computer software to operate, it will be more expensive to have it programmed by a dealer. Luckily, you can sometimes purchase replacement key fobs on the internet from companies who specialize in key fobs. Before you purchase, make sure to check with the manufacturer to find out whether the key fob will work on your vehicle and what it would cost to program them.
For some drivers, purchasing a new car key may be covered by their auto insurance company. It's usually part of their roadside assistance extra add-ons or extended bumper-to-bumper coverage. For more details you'll need to look up your insurance policy.
The Location
If you've lost your car keys or were accidentally destroyed during a fire, most all insurance companies will cover the cost of replacements. They'll require you to provide proof of ownership (registration or title), and some will also have locksmiths on call to assist with key fobs. Always have a spare key for your home.
It's relatively inexpensive to replace traditional car keys that are still in use by a lot of cars. You can usually find one at a hardware store for less than $10. However the more sophisticated key fobs are more expensive. This includes the remote keyless access (RKE) which allows you unlock your car's doors from a distance and then start it by pressing the button. They are typically used in luxury cars. content fobs like these are typically a in a car's top trim or technology packages and range in price from between $200 and $500.
Another aspect that influences the cost of replacing a key is whether you require a new key or just the fob that controls it. A new key has an electronic chip that communicates with the car, however, an old key might not. If the key does not contain a chip, it will not start the car and has to be replaced with a new fob.
A new key fob will likely have a much more complex internal design and could increase the cost of replacement. It will also have to be programmed to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle, which can add to the cost.
The best method to save money on a car replacement key is to compare prices with different providers. Utilizing apps for smartphones such as Yelp or Foursquare can help you find the best prices in your area. It's recommended, if you are able to schedule your appointment the next day. Most businesses charge more during holidays or after-hours.