Car Key Replacement Cost
Replacing your car keys is costly. It is possible to have the cost of replacing your car key covered by Key Protection Cover that you can purchase as an additional item to your insurance policy or as a separate item.
The cost of replacing the keys to your car depends on the year, model and model of your car. In this article, we'll look at the factors that affect the cost of replacement car keys.
The Make and Model of Your Vehicle
Losing your car keys is always a big hassle and it's even more so when you don't have a spare. In the majority of cases, when you want to drive your car again you'll need a fresh set of keys. However, the car key replacement cost may vary according to the vehicle you have. Modern cars have a wide array of features that can increase the cost of replacing your keys. For example, sports cars with high performance usually have special keys which can be costly to duplicate.
It's also more expensive to duplicate old mechanical key systems because they require the expertise of a dealer to work. It is essential to know the model and make of your vehicle prior to asking an estimate from an auto dealer or locksmith. You will then be able to get an estimate of the cost.
The complexity of your key system will also impact the price. For instance, modern key fobs contain a battery and circuitry that makes them more difficult to replace than older keys.
Some car owners opt to go to a dealership to get their car keys duplicated as they believe it will be cheaper and more convenient. The dealership will likely charge a premium price for their services. This is because the main goal is to make money from their customers.
You might want to think about employing a third-party company to replace your car keys if you cannot afford to do so at the dealership. They may be able offer you a more competitive cost than the dealership and they will probably have a more experienced team to help you with your key replacement needs.
It's also worth noting that it is recommended to avoid third-party companies or hardware stores to duplicate your keys. They lack the knowledge to duplicate your keys to your car. They are also more likely to provide a substandard replacement or tamper with the original key.
The Automotive Locksmith You Use
If you've ever locked your keys to your car it's a hassle that nobody wants to tackle. This scenario could occur at the most inconvenient moment, like when you are in a hurry to attend an important occasion or meeting. If you're in search of a quick and cost-effective solution, it's worth calling an auto locksmith instead of heading to the dealership.
Car keys and FOBs contain circuitry, as well as a specific transponder chip that must be programmed to allow the start of the car. In the past, the chips were placed in the cylinder of ignition. As technology improved and the chips were relocated to the keyfobs. This made the key fobs more secure and harder to duplicate however, it also increased the costs of repairs and replacements due to the fact that the new key fobs had to be programmed by an auto locksmith or the dealer to function.
Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths have learned and adapted to deal with these modern systems. They can program new FOBs that work with your vehicle, or remove old ones that don't work. The cost of this service will vary according to the year the vehicle was manufactured, as well as the model of your vehicle.
The kind of key you require will also impact the price. There are two types of car keys that most automobiles have: a conventional metal key that's not connected to a fob or any other electrical component, and a remote FOB that controls the ignition and opens/unlocks the doors. The former type is usually the cheapest to replace since it does not require programming and is able to be cut by an automotive locksmith using a special blank.
The latter kind of key is more expensive to replace since it requires a transponder chip to unlock the car. It's vital to use an experienced locksmith to replace your keys when you need one. If you attempt to do it yourself or make use of tools such as coat hangers, you can damage the lock and the key may not work.
The Kind of Key You Are Looking For
There are many different kinds of keys. Certain keys are mechanical and require insertion directly into the ignition cylinder. Others contain a transponder that can unlock doors and remotely start the engine. The type that is the latter is more expensive to replace, as it requires a professional to program it to your particular vehicle. Luckily, locksmiths have adapted to the new technology, and you don't have to visit the dealership to get one of these keys.
It's not fun to lose or smuggle your keys, but it can be even more difficult when you are stuck in a deadlock and you're left with no place to go. In the past it wasn't a problem because you could easily get a replacement key at any hardware store, or your dealership. With the introduction of modern security methods and the ease with which a car is stolen via remote control, finding a solution is not as easy.
You can try tracking down your keys yourself by searching for online groups or contacting the dealer but that's not always the best alternative. Dealers can only create keys for your vehicle once you bring it to them. They'll charge you for this service. It's also worth looking into whether the cost of replacing the key is covered under your warranty, roadside assistance or bumper-to-bumper insurance.
If you have a traditional mechanical key, it's inexpensive to replace it if you only need to cut an additional one. Most automotive locksmiths will be able to duplicate these for under $10, though you may require more for older models that do not use transponder chips.
The most expensive method of obtaining a replacement car key is to go to the dealership. This will be the best option if you have the original key to show them, but otherwise, it's probably not worth the hassle, especially if your insurance company covers the cost. If you choose to go this route, be sure to shop around for quotes and compare them between the key specialists and dealers.
The Location
Car keys are electronic devices with circuitry and batteries. They also have a transmitter that transmits a code to the car to unlock its doors and then start the engine. As such, they can be expensive to replace if you break them or lose them. auto key replacement of the actual key itself is not that expensive but the effort to cut and program the new key for your specific car is what can add up. The cost of a new car key can vary widely based on its complexity, type and the dealer.
The location of your home can also affect the cost of a new car key. For instance, if you live in a rural area there might be fewer auto locksmiths to assist you with your problem. You might pay more for services if you live in a rural area since they need to travel further to get to you. If you live in Chicago, you will have many options of locksmiths for automobiles. You can choose one that offers a reasonable price.
In some instances you can save money by replacing the battery on your key fob for your car. The majority of drivers can do this if they adhere to the owner's manual for their vehicle. Some companies that sell car keys will even do this service for free, however it is recommended to check your car's warranty before doing this.
If you lost your car keys and don't have a spare the best solution is to visit a dealer in your area and get a new one that is paired with your vehicle. This is the most expensive option but it's also the most reliable. You can make an electronic key in the moment if you can show them your registration or title.