How to Avoid Expensive Replacement Car Key Costs
Losing, or misplacing keys to your car isn't exactly a pleasant experience. Unfortunately replacing them can be expensive too.
The cost of a brand new key can vary greatly depending on its type, location it was made, and how it is replaced. Here are a few elements that affect the price of replacement keys for cars.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
Not long ago losing or misplacing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could get a basic metal key at your local hardware store for a few dollars. Nowadays, cars are much more advanced in technology, and so are their keys. This makes it more difficult for thieves to take your vehicle but it also means that replacing a stolen or lost key can be more expensive than it was in the past.
One of the main factors that affects the cost of the replacement car key is the make and model of your vehicle. Some manufacturers produce more complex, high-tech keys than others. It will be harder to duplicate or program keys for these models. Certain features on key fobs may not be available at all auto shops or locksmiths, so you will have go to the dealer purchase the features you need.
There are also many different types of car keys, and each one comes with its own unique set of costs when it comes time to purchase a new one. For instance, some cars utilize a switchblade type key that folds up into the fob, similar to a regular house key. These can cost up to $125 to replace, whereas the basic chip keys usually cost less expensive.
The security of the key also can have a significant impact on its cost. The majority of modern car keys include anti-theft features that prevent them from being copied by thieves. The features include a small remote control, a microchip within the key and a code that is encrypted that blocks it from being read by a computer.
Smart keys that open doors and start engines are the most secure. Certain auto shops and locksmiths can duplicate keys, however dealerships demand to have your original key so they can pair it up with your vehicle. It's a costly procedure however it's a great way to make sure your car won’t be stolen.
The Location
Replacement of the car key is not a pleasant experience. It's a hassle and can be expensive. But you can avoid some of the costs by knowing how much it will cost prior to when you go to the store or call for roadside assistance. You can get the most accurate estimate if have a clear idea of the kind of car key you need and how old it could be, and the amount of money you're willing to spend.
The location of your home is a major determinant in the cost of a replacement key for your car. In rural areas, there are fewer locksmiths, which means higher costs. However when you live in a big city that has plenty of locksmith choices, you're likely to get the best price on the replacement of your car keys.
Another thing to consider is the time of year you're replacing your keys. Due to the high demand prices, they tend to rise in the summer. If you can wait to get your transponder or basic keys replaced until after the off-season and you'll save a substantial amount of money.
As car technology has developed and so have the cars' keys. They are no longer just metal pieces. They are tiny electronic devices that have batteries and circuitry. Car keys that contain chip inside can cost between $220 to $350 to replace, based on the type of key you have as well as the overall key cutting cost, expenses related to a locksmith visit or towing, and the programming cost.
It's also worth noting that there are less expensive car keys you can buy online or at some 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 for less and quickly than dealers contact us now. We'll be delighted to assist you! Our locksmiths are highly educated and knowledgeable. We utilize the most modern technology to provide a prompt and professional service.
The Model and Make of the Key
In contrast to the past when you were able to walk into a hardware shop and purchase a duplicate key for pennies, modern cars use electronic components to open doors and disable the immobilizer. If you lose your car key, or want to make an extra set, the process can be costly.
There are many ways to cut down the cost of purchasing new car keys. The first step is to be aware of the various types of keys for cars and how they are priced. The next step is determining what factors can increase overall cost of having a new key.
One of the main factors that determines the amount it will cost to purchase a new car key is the kind and model of your car. Every manufacturer has its own unique key design. A majority of them come with advanced security features. The more complex the key, the higher price you will pay.
The most recent models have remote transmitters, also known as key fobs, which require an authorization code to pair them with your car. This kind of key could be very expensive to replace, especially in the event that you have to go to a dealership or auto locksmith for assistance.
The type of key that you own will also impact the cost of duplicates. If you own a traditional metal key, it will be much cheaper to make a duplicate than if it's an all-in-one laser-cut key. Laser-cut keys have circuitry within it that requires programming to work with your car and the cost of a replacement key will vary depending on what type you own.
Lastly, you should consider whether or not you have any type of insurance to cover the loss or damage of your keys. Certain insurance companies offer a program to cover the cost of replacing damaged or lost keys to cars 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 is about automobiles there are plenty of things that can go wrong. It's important to prepare for the worst and have a replacement car key in place before anything goes wrong. auto key replacement will cover a variety of different keys and fobs, so you don't need 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. Keys for vehicles that are newer can be more expensive because of the advancements in technology. Certain push-to-start vehicles have key fobs that need to be paired up with a computer. This process can be lengthy and expensive and requires a professional to complete it correctly.
Other types of newer cars come with special security features that make keys more difficult to steal. For instance, some have key fobs that secure the doors of cars if tampered with or have mirror folding capabilities. Key fobs that have this feature require a more specialized programming process that only a dealer can do and are often much more expensive to replace than standard keys made of metal.
Certain vehicles of recent years come with key fobs that are equipped with anti-theft features. These disable the engine in case the key is stolen, or if it has been broken off within the ignition. They are also more expensive to replace since they must be paired to the car using special computer software that only a dealer can access.
In addition, some newer keys are made with a switchblade style that houses the metal component within plastic. These are more expensive to replace because they require a different kind of cutting tool. Some automotive locksmiths are able to replace these keys on-site if they provide them with information about the key, including its model and year, and evidence of ownership (such as your registration or title).
All of these things can add to finding a new key for your vehicle. That's why it's important for motorists to have a good car key replacement program in place to ensure that they don't have to pay hundreds of dollars in replacement costs should they lose their keys or need to duplicate them.