How to Avoid Expensive Replacement Car Key Costs
Losing, or misplacing keys to your car isn't exactly a pleasant experience. It can also be costly to replace them.
The cost of a brand new key varies greatly based on its type, location it is manufactured and the method by which it is replaced. Here are some of the factors that affect replacement car key prices.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
Not long ago the loss or misplacement of your car key was not an issue. You could get a basic metal key from your local hardware store for just pennies. Nowadays, cars are more advanced in technology and so are keys. This makes it harder for thieves to take your vehicle but it also means that replacing a lost or stolen key may be more expensive than in the past.
The make and model of your vehicle is one of the most important factors that determine the price of a new key replacement. Some manufacturers produce more complex, high-tech keys than others. It is more difficult to duplicate or program keys for these models. Some key fob features may not be available at all locksmith shops or auto shops which is why you'll need go to the dealer purchase them.
There are also many different types of car keys and each one comes with its own unique set of costs when it comes to purchasing a new one. For instance, certain vehicles use a switchblade key that folds up into the fob, similar to a standard house key. These keys can cost up $125, while the basic chips are usually smaller.
The security of the key also has a significant impact on the cost. A majority of modern keys are fitted with anti-theft functions to stop the key from being copied. These features include a small remote control, a microchip inside the key, and an encrypted code which prevents it from being read by computers.
Smart keys that can open doors and start engines are the most secure. They can be copied at certain auto and locksmith shops, but most dealerships will require you to bring the original key with you so they can pair it with your vehicle. This could be a costly experience however it's a safe way to ensure your vehicle won't be taken by a thief.
The Location
The replacement of a car's key is not a pleasurable experience. It can be a headache and can cost a lot. You can save money by knowing the price of the repair prior to when you call roadside assistance or go to the store. auto car key replacement can also get the most accurate estimate if you know what kind of car key you require, how old it is and the amount you're willing to pay for it.
The location of your home is a major factor in the price of a replacement car key. In rural areas, there are fewer locksmiths and consequently higher costs. If you live in a large city, you'll have many locksmiths to choose from, and you can find an affordable price for a car key replacement.
Think about the time of year when you are changing your keys. Prices tend to be higher during the summer due to the increased demand. If you can wait to get your basic or transponder keys replaced until after the off-season you'll probably save some money.
The keys for cars have changed with the advancements in car technology. They're no longer basic metal pieces, they're tiny electronic devices that are equipped with circuitry and a battery that are capable of doing all sorts of things. Car keys with chips inside could cost between $220 and $350 to replace, depending on the type of key you own as well as the overall key cutting cost, expenses related to a locksmith's visit or towing, as well as the programming cost.
You can also find cheaper car keys online or in some hardware stores. However, they may not be compatible with your vehicle or work. If you're looking for a way to replace your car keys for less and quickly than through dealers, give us a call today. We'll be more than happy to help! Our locksmiths are well-trained and knowledgeable. We utilize the most modern technology to provide prompt and professional service.
The Model and the Make of the Key
In contrast to the days when you could walk into the hardware store and get an identical key made for pennies, most modern vehicles have electronic components in their keys to do everything from unlock the doors to turn off the immobilizer. This means that if you ever lose your keys to your car, or just want to make an extra set, it can be a costly process.
There are ways to reduce the cost of purchasing new car keys. The first step is to be aware of the different types of keys for cars and how much they cost. The next step is determining what factors can affect the costs of having a new key.
One of the biggest factors that impacts how much it will cost you to purchase a new car key is the kind and model of the vehicle. Every manufacturer has its own unique key design, and lots have advanced security technologies. The more sophisticated the key is more expensive you can expect to pay.
For instance certain models have remote transmitters (also called key fobs) that require a special code to connect with the car. This type of key can be quite costly to replace, especially if you have to visit a dealer or auto locksmith for assistance.
The type of key you own will also impact the cost to duplicate it. A traditional metal key is less expensive to duplicate than an all-in one laser-cut key. A laser-cut car key includes circuitry that needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. The cost of the new key will be contingent on which type you have.
Last but not least, it is important to determine if you have insurance coverage in the event that you lose or damage your keys. Some insurance companies provide a service that covers the cost of replacing keys to damaged or lost car keys up to a certain limit. This is a great option for parents with children at home, or if your vehicle has been stolen.
Security Features
When it comes to automobiles there are plenty of things that can be wrong. That's why it's essential to have a good key replacement plan for your car in place before anything happens. A comprehensive program for key replacement can cover a number of different keys and fobs, so that you don't have to be concerned about the cost.
One of the most significant factors that can impact the cost of replacement keys for cars is the type of car you drive. The keys for more modern vehicles will be more expensive due to the advancement of the advanced technology. Some push-to start vehicles come with key fobs which need to be paired up via a computer. This process can be time-consuming and costly, and requires the expertise of a professional in order to do it correctly.
Other types of newer cars come with security features that make keys more difficult to take. Certain key fobs can are able to lock the doors of the car if they are tampered with or feature mirror folding capabilities. Key fobs that are programmed by an authorized dealer and require a more intricate procedure. They are more expensive to replace.
Certain vehicles of recent years include key fobs that are equipped with anti-theft systems. They shut off the engine in the event that the key is stolen or if it breaks off inside the ignition. These are also more expensive to replace because they need to be connected to the vehicle using a specific computer program that only dealers have access to.
Additionally, some modern keys are manufactured with a switchblade style which houses the metal piece within plastic. These are more expensive to replace as they require a different type of cutting tool. In some cases, these are able to be replaced on site by an locksmith for automotive if you provide the key's model and year and evidence that you have ownership of the vehicle (like your registration or title).
Each of these variables could result in an enormous bill when it's time purchase a new car key. It's crucial that drivers have a key replacement plan in place to avoid having to pay hundreds of dollars in replacement costs when they lose their keys.