How to Avoid Expensive Replacement Car Key Costs
Misplacing, or even losing keys to your car isn't an enjoyable experience. And, unfortunately, replacing them can be quite costly as well.
The cost of purchasing a new key can vary greatly depending on the type of key, the location it is made and how it is replaced. Here are some of the elements that affect the cost of replacing car keys.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing your car keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could buy a simple metal key at your local hardware store for pennies. Keys and cars are technologically advanced today. This makes it harder for thieves to steal vehicles, but also increases the cost of replacing a lost or stolen key.
One of the main factors that affects the cost of the replacement car key is the brand and model of your vehicle. Some manufacturers produce more complex high-tech keys than other. This means that they will be more difficult to duplicate or create a new key. Furthermore, certain key fob functions aren't available at all locksmith or auto shops, which means you'll have to go to the dealer for these services.
There are a variety of types of car keys and each has its own unique set of costs when it comes time to purchase a new one. For instance, certain vehicles utilize a switchblade type key that folds into the fob, which is similar to a standard house key. Keys like these can cost as high as $125, while basic chips typically cost smaller.
Another crucial aspect that affects the price of a new key is the level of security. The majority of modern car keys include anti-theft devices that stop them from being stolen by thieves. These features include remote control, microchip in the key and a code that is encrypted to prevent it from being scanned.
Smart keys that open doors and start engines are the most secure. Some locksmiths and auto shops are able to duplicate these keys, but dealerships require that you bring in your original key in order to connect it to your vehicle. This can be costly however it's a great way to make sure your car won’t be stolen.
The Location
Car key replacement is not an enjoyable experience. It can be a hassle and can cost a lot. However, you can save a lot of the costs by knowing what it will cost before you visit the shop or call for assistance on the road. You can get the most accurate estimate if have a clear understanding of the type of car key you require and how old it could be, and the amount of money you are willing to spend.
The area you reside in is a major factor in the cost of your car key replacement . If you live in rural areas, for example there could be fewer locksmiths to pick from, and the costs will be higher due to this. If you live in a big city, you will have several locksmiths to choose from and you can find the best price on the replacement of your car keys.
Consider the time of year that you are changing your keys. Prices tend to be higher during the summer because of the high demand. If you can wait to get your basic or transponder keys changed until the winter months, then you'll likely save some money.
As technology for cars has advanced, so do the keys for cars. They are no longer just metal pieces. They are tiny electronic devices with batteries and circuitry. Car keys that contain a chip inside can cost between $220 and $350 to replace, depending on the kind of key you own, the overall key cutting cost, expenses associated with a locksmith's visit or towing, and the cost of programming.
You can also purchase cheaper keys for cars online or in some hardware stores. However, they may not be compatible with your vehicle or at work. Call us now if you're looking to replace your car keys faster and more affordably than an auto dealer. We'll be delighted to assist you! Our locksmiths have extensive training and experience. We use the most advanced technology to deliver a quick and efficient service.
The Model and Make of the Key
Unlike the days when you could walk into a hardware store and have duplicate keys made for pennies, the majority of modern vehicles have electronic components in their keys to perform everything from unlocking the doors to disable the immobilizer. If you lose your car key or you want to create an extra set, the process could be quite costly.
Fortunately, there are ways to cut down on some of the costs when you require new car keys. The first step is to comprehend the different types of keys for cars and how much they cost. The next step is to determine what factors can increase the overall cost of getting an alternative key.
The type and model of your car will have a major impact on the price of the new key. Every manufacturer has its own unique key design, and lots have advanced technological security features. The more sophisticated the key is more expensive you can expect to pay.
For instance some of the most recent models have remote transmitters (also known as a key fob) which require a unique code to pair with the car. This kind of key could be quite costly to replace, particularly in the event that you have to visit a dealership or auto locksmith for help.
The kind of key you own will also affect how costly it is to create duplicate sets. If you have a traditional metal key it will cost less to make a duplicate than if you have an all-in-one laser-cut keys. A key cut by laser includes circuitry that needs to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle. The price of a new key will vary on the kind you have.
Finally, you should think about whether you have any coverage for losing or damaging your keys. Some insurance companies provide a service that will pay for the replacement of lost or damaged car keys up to a specific limit. This is a great option when you have children at home or if your car was stolen.
Security Features
There are a myriad of things that can go awry when it is about automobiles. That's why it's important to have a good key replacement plan for your car in place before anything happens. A comprehensive plan for key replacement can cover many different keys and fobs, meaning you don't have to worry about the cost.
One of the main factors that can affect the cost of replacement keys for cars is the kind of car you own. The keys for newer vehicles will be more expensive due to the advancement of the advanced technology. Certain push-to-start vehicles have key fobs that need to be paired up via computer. This process can be time-consuming and expensive and requires a professional to do it correctly.
Other types of newer cars have specialized security features that can make keys harder to steal. Some key fobs lock the doors of the car when they are damaged or have mirror folding capabilities. These key fobs are programmed by an authorized dealer and require a more complicated process. They can be more expensive to replace.
Certain vehicles of recent years have key fobs that have anti-theft devices. These disable the engine in case the key is stolen, or if it breaks off within the ignition. These are also more costly to replace since they have to be linked to the car through a special computer program which only dealers have access to.
Additionally, some of the newer keys are made using a switchblade that houses the metal part inside plastic. They cost more because they require a specific cutting tool. Some locksmiths for automotive can replace keys on the spot if you provide them with information about the key, including the model and year, and proof of ownership (such as your registration or title).
All of these things can add up when it comes to having a new key to your vehicle. 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.