How to Avoid Expensive Replacement Car Key Costs
Losing, or misplacing, your car keys isn't the most pleasant experience. However, it can be expensive to replace keys.
The cost of a new key varies greatly based on the type of key, the location it was made, and the method by which it is replaced. Below are some of the main elements that determine the cost of replacing a car key.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing your car key or losing it was not a major problem. You could buy a simple metal key at a local hardware store for a few dollars. Keys and cars are more technologically advanced today. This makes it harder for thieves to steal a car, but also increases the cost of replacing a lost or stolen key.
One of the most important factors that affect the price of the replacement car key is the brand and model of the vehicle. Certain manufacturers make keys that are more complex and high-tech than other. This means that they will be more difficult to replicate or program a new key. Furthermore, certain key fob functions aren't available at all locksmiths or auto shops, which means you'll need to visit the dealer to purchase those services.
There are a variety of keys, and each comes with its own set of expenses. For example, some 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 the basic chips are usually smaller.
Another important factor 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 copied by thieves. These features include a remote control, microchip inside the key, and a secure code to prevent it from being scanned.
The most secure keys are smart keys, which can open the doors and even start the engine. Some locksmiths and auto shops can duplicate keys, but dealerships require to have your original key so they can pair it up with your vehicle. This can be expensive, but it is a secure way to be sure your car won't be stolen by a thief.
The Location
Car key replacement is not a pleasant experience. It can be a pain, and it can also be expensive. But you can avoid a lot of the costs by knowing what it will cost prior to when you go to the shop or call for assistance on the road. You can also get the most accurate estimate of price when you know the type of car key you need and how old it is and the price you're willing to pay for it.
The location of your home is a major factor in the cost of a replacement car key. If you live in rural areas for instance there could be fewer locksmiths available from and prices will be higher as a result. On the other hand, if you live in a big city that has plenty of locksmith options, then you're likely to get a competitive deal on the replacement of your car keys.
Take into consideration the time of year that you are replacing your keys. Due to the high demand the prices will rise during summer. car key replacements can save money by putting off the decision to replace your basic or transponder key until the time of off-season.
As car technology has evolved, so have the cars' keys. They're not just basic metal pieces, they're tiny electronic devices with batteries and circuitry that are capable of doing many things. Car keys that contain a chip inside can cost between $220 and $350 to replace, based on the type of key you have, the overall key cutting cost, expenses related to a locksmith visit or towing, as well as the programming cost.
It's also worth noting that there are a variety of cheaper keys for cars you can buy on the internet or at certain hardware stores, but they may not work or even be compatible with your vehicle. If vehicle key replacement looking for an option to replace your car keys more affordably and quickly than a dealer, give us a call today. We'll be more than willing to assist! Our locksmiths are highly trained and experienced. We use the latest technology to provide you with quick and professional service.
The Make and Model of the Key
In contrast to the days when you could walk into an hardware store and find a duplicate key made for pennies, most modern automobiles have electronic components in their keys that accomplish everything from opening the doors to turn off the immobilizer. If you lose your car keys, or want to make an additional set, the process could be very expensive.
There are ways to cut some of the costs when you require new car keys. The first step is to comprehend the various types of car keys and how they cost. The next step is to determine what factors could increase the cost of getting a replacement key made.
The model and type of your vehicle will have a major impact on the cost of a new key. Every manufacturer has its unique key design. A majority of them come with advanced security features. The more sophisticated the key is more expensive you can expect to pay.
Some of the latest models come with remote transmitters, also known as key fobs, which require a code to pair them to the car. This type of key can be costly to replace, especially if you have to visit a dealer or auto locksmith for help.
The type of key you have will also affect the cost of duplicates. If you own a traditional metal key, it will be much cheaper to make a duplicate than if you own an all-in-one laser-cut key. Laser-cut keys have circuitry inside that must be programmed to work with your car, so the price of the replacement key will differ according to the type of key you own.
Finally, you should think about whether or not you have any protection against losing or damaging your keys. Certain insurance companies provide a service that covers the cost of replacing keys to damaged or lost car keys up to a specific limit. This is a great option when you have children at home or your car has been stolen.
Security Features
There are a myriad of things that can go wrong when it comes to 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 many different fobs and keys, so you don't have to worry about cost.
One of the most significant factors that affect replacement car key costs is the type of car you drive. The keys for more modern vehicles are more expensive because of the technology. Certain vehicles with push-to-start have key fobs that require pairing with a computer. This can be a lengthy expensive procedure that requires a professional.
Certain models are more modern and have security features that make it harder to steal keys. For instance, some models have key fobs that can lock the car doors if they're altered or feature mirror folding capabilities. Key fobs that have this feature require a more sophisticated programming procedure 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 with anti-theft systems. They disable the engine in case the key is stolen or if it breaks out of the ignition. They are also more expensive to replace because they need to be connected to the car through a special computer program that only dealers have access to.
In addition, some newer keys are manufactured with a switchblade style that houses the metal component inside a plastic. They are more expensive due to the fact that they require a specific cutting tool. In some instances, they can be replaced onsite by an automotive locksmith if you can provide the model and year and evidence that you own the vehicle (like your registration or title).
All of these things can add up when it comes to having a new key to your vehicle. That's why it's important for drivers to have a dependable car key replacement program in place to ensure that they don't end up paying hundreds of dollars for replacement costs if they lose their keys or require to duplicate them.