Car Key Replacement Cost
Replacing your car keys could be costly. It is possible to have the cost of replacing your car keys covered by Key Protection Cover, which you can purchase as an additional item to your insurance policy, or as a separate product.
The cost to replace the keys to your car depends on the model, year, and make of your car. In this article we will look at the factors that influence the cost of replacing car keys.
What is vehicle key replacement and make of your vehicle?
Losing keys to your car is a big hassle however, it's even more challenging if you don't have an extra. In the majority of cases, when you're planning to return to driving your car you'll require a new set of keys. However, the car key replacement cost can differ significantly according to the vehicle you have. Modern cars have a wide range of features that can make it more expensive to replace your keys. For instance, high-performance sports cars often come with specialized keys that can be costly to duplicate.
It's also more expensive to duplicate the older mechanical key systems because they require the knowledge of a dealer to work. So, it's important to know the model and make before requesting a quote from a locksmith or automotive dealership. Then, you can obtain a fair price estimate.
Another aspect that can affect the cost of replacing your car keys is how complex your key system is. Modern keys, for instance, contain a circuit and battery that make them more difficult to replace than earlier car keys.
Some car owners go to the dealer to duplicate their vehicle keys because they believe it will be cheaper. But, this isn't always accurate, as the dealer is likely to charge premiums for their services. This is because the main goal is to earn a profit from their customers.
If you're unable to have your car keys replaced at the dealership, it might be worth enlisting an outside company to complete the task for you. They might be able to offer you a more competitive price than the dealership, and they'll likely have a more knowledgeable team to assist you with any key replacement requirements.
It's also important to note that it's best to avoid going to hardware stores or companies that are third party to have your keys duplicated. These businesses lack the expertise to accurately duplicate your car keys. They are also more likely than to provide a substandard replacement or tamper with the original key.
The Automotive Locksmith You Use
It's a hassle that nobody wants. This type of situation can occur at the worst time possible, such as when you're getting late for an important event or meeting. You can contact an auto locksmith for a fast and cost-effective solution instead of going to an auto dealership if you need.
Car keys and FOBs are tiny electronic devices that contain circuitry and a transponder chip, which needs to be programmed to allow them to begin the engine of the vehicle. In the past, the chips were placed inside the cylinder for ignition. As technology improved, the chips were moved to the keyfobs. This made the key fobs more secure, and also harder to duplicate however, it also increased the cost of replacements and repairs since the new key fobs required to be programmed by an auto locksmith or dealer in order to function.
Many locksmiths for automotive are now able to work with the latest systems. They can program new FOBs to work with your vehicle, or remove the old ones if they do not work. The cost will vary depending on the year of your car and make, as well as the model.
The type of key that you require will also impact the price. The majority of vehicles have two kinds of keys: a conventional metal fob that's not attached to the ignition or any other electrical component, and remote keys that lock and unlocks the doors. The former is the easiest to replace, as it does not require programming, and it can be cut by an auto locksmith using a blank.
It is more expensive to replace the transponder key because it is required to unlock the car. This is why it's essential to choose an accredited locksmith for your car when you require an additional key for your car. Doing it yourself or using tools such as coat hangers could damage the lock cylinder and cause the key not to work, so it's best to call for help in these situations.
The Kind of Key You Need
There are several different types of keys. Certain keys are mechanical and need to be inserted directly into the ignition cylinder. Others contain transponders that are able to unlock doors and remotely start the engine. The cost of replacing the latter type is higher since it must be programmed by a professional for your vehicle. Luckily, locksmiths have adapted to the new technology, so you don't have to visit a dealership to have one of these keys.
Losing your keys or getting them lost isn't fun however, the situation becomes more stressful when find yourself without a way to start your car and have no place to go. In the past, it was easy to get a replacement key at any hardware store, or even at the dealership of your car. With the advent of advanced security measures and the ease at that a vehicle is stolen via remote control and remote control, finding a solution not as easy.
You can track your keys by searching online groups or contacting the dealer, however, it's not always the best alternative. Dealers will only create keys for your vehicle after you have brought it to them. They will charge you for this service. It's also worth looking into whether the cost of replacing the key is covered by your warranty, roadside assistance or bumper-to-bumper insurance.
If you're looking to replace your mechanical key you can do it for a very low cost if you only need to cut one. Most locksmiths for automotive can duplicate them for less than $10, but you might need to pay a little more for older models that do not make use of transponder chips.
The most expensive method of obtaining replacing your car key is to go to the dealership. If you own the original key it's the best alternative. Otherwise, it's not worth the hassle, especially in the event that the cost is covered by your insurance. If you do choose this route, be sure to compare prices between dealerships and third-party key experts.
The Location
Car keys are electronic devices that have circuitry and batteries. They also have transmitters that can send an encoded code to start the car and unlock the doors. They can be costly to replace in the event that they break or are lost. The cost of the actual key itself is usually not too much but the effort to cut and program the new key to your specific vehicle is what adds up. These costs can vary widely dependent on the type and complexity of the key, as well as the locksmith or dealer you choose to use.
The location of your house can also affect the cost of a new car key. If you live in rural areas, there might be fewer locksmiths at the auto shop to assist you. You might have to pay more if you live in a rural area because they will need to travel further to get to you. However, if you live in a city like Chicago there will be numerous locksmiths for automobiles to choose from, so you can find one that is competitive for their services.
In certain situations it is possible to save money on a replacement for your car key by changing the battery in the car key fob. This is something that can be done by the majority of drivers if they follow the instructions that are in the owner's manual. Some companies that sell car keys will even do this service for free, but it's a good idea to confirm the warranty on your car before you do this.
If you've lost your car keys and don't have a spare, the best choice is to go to an area dealership and purchase a replacement paired to your vehicle. This is the most expensive option, but also the most reliable option. You can make keys on the spot if you can show them your registration or your title.