Car Key Replacement Cost
Replacing your car keys can be expensive. It is possible to have the cost of replacing your car key covered by a Key Protection Cover that you can buy as an additional item to your insurance policy, or as a separate product.
The cost of replacing keys to your car is contingent on the year, model and make of your vehicle. In this article we will explore the factors that affect the cost of replacing car keys.
The Make and Model of Your Vehicle
Losing your keys to your car is always a big hassle however, it's even more so when you don't have a spare. That's because, in the majority of instances, you'll have to purchase a new set if you want to use your vehicle again. The cost of replacing a car key can differ greatly based on the type of vehicle. This is because modern cars have a range of different features, and these features can raise the cost to replace your keys. For example, high-performance sports automobiles often have keys that are specially designed and expensive to duplicate.
It's also more costly to duplicate older mechanical key systems because they require the expertise of a dealer. It is essential to know the model and make of your vehicle prior to asking an estimate from an auto dealership or locksmith. Then, you can get a reasonable price estimate.
The complexity of your key system will also impact the price. For instance, modern keys fobs are equipped with batteries and circuitry that makes them more complicated to replace than keys that were made in the past.
Some car owners decide to go to a dealership to have their vehicle keys duplicated, thinking that it's cheaper and easier. But, this isn't always true, since the dealership is likely to charge a premium for their services. This is because the dealership's main objective is to generate profit from their customers.
If you can't afford to have your car's key replaced at the dealership, it may be worthwhile to consider hiring an outside company to complete the task for you. They may be able provide you with a better price than the dealership and they'll likely have a better team to help you with any key replacement requirements.
It is also important to note that it is best to avoid going to third-party companies or hardware stores to duplicate your keys. They are unlikely to have the knowledge required to accurately duplicate your keys to your car and are more likely to alter the original key or create an inferior replacement.
The Automotive Locksmith You Use
It's a hassle that no one wants to endure. It's a situation that usually happens at the worst possible timing, such as when you're late to an important event or meeting. If you're looking for a fast and affordable solution, you should call an auto locksmith rather than going 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 put in the ignition cylinder. As technology advanced and the chips were relocated to the keyfobs. This made the key fobs more secure and harder to duplicate, but it also increased the costs of repairs and replacements because the new key fobs required to be programmed by an auto locksmith or the dealer to function.
Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths for cars have learned and adapted to work with these newer systems. They can program the new FOBs to work with your car, and even remove older ones that don't work. The cost will differ based on the year and make.
The type of key you require will also impact the cost. There are two types of car keys that most automobiles use: a traditional metal key that isn't connected to a fob, or any other electronic component and a remote FOB that controls the ignition and locks/unlocks the doors. The former type is usually the most inexpensive to replace as it does not require programming and can be cut by an auto locksmith using a specially-designed blank.
The second kind of key is more costly to replace because it requires a special transponder chip to unlock the car. It is crucial to work with a trusted locksmith to replace your key if you need one. Doing it yourself or trying to use tools like coat hangers can damage the lock's cylinder, and cause the key to not to work, which is why it's best to call for help in these situations.
The Type of Key You Need
There are several different types of keys. Some keys are mechanical, and must be inserted directly into the ignition cylinder. Some keys have transponders that are able to unlock doors and remotely start the engine. The latter type of key is more expensive to replace, because it requires a professional to program it to your specific vehicle. Locksmiths have adapted to the latest technology, and you don't need to visit a dealership to get one of these keys.
It's never fun to lose or smuggle your keys, but it becomes more stressful when you are stuck in a deadlock and with nowhere to go. In the past, this wasn't a problem because you could easily get a replacement key at any hardware store, or your dealership. But with experienced of advanced security features and the ease of stealing cars through remote control, it's no longer as simple to find an answer.
You can track the keys yourself by searching for online groups or contacting the dealer but that's not always an option. The majority of dealers are capable of creating a new key for your car after you bring it in, and they'll charge you for this service. You should also check whether your warranty roadside service or bumper-to-bumper insurance covers the cost of the replacement key.
If you have a traditional mechanical key, it's relatively cheap to replace if you simply need to cut an additional one. Most locksmiths for automotive will be able to duplicate these keys for less than $10, though you may have to pay more for older models that do not use transponder chips.
The most expensive option for replacing your car key is to visit the dealership. This will be the best choice if you have the original key to show them, but otherwise, it's not worth the hassle, particularly in the event that your insurance company covers the cost. If you decide to go this route, make sure you compare quotes and compare them between the dealership and key specialists.
The Location
Car keys are small electronic devices that have batteries and circuitry. They also come with a transmitter which transmits a code to the car to open its doors and start the engine. As such, they are expensive to replace if you have them stolen or damaged. The key itself costs very little however the time and effort required to program it for your vehicle can be costly. The cost of these keys can vary greatly dependent on the type and complexity of the key, as well as the dealer or locksmith you choose to use.
The location of your house can affect the cost of the purchase of a new car key. For instance, if you reside in a rural location, there may not be many automotive locksmiths who can assist you with your issue. This means that you will have to pay more for their services, since they'll need to travel longer distances to get to you. If you live in Chicago, you will have numerous options for locksmiths for your automobile. You can pick one that is priced competitively.
In some cases, it is possible to save money on a replacement for your car key by simply replacing the battery in your car key fob. This is something that can be done by most drivers when they follow the directions provided in their car's owner's manual. Certain car key companies offer this service at no cost. However, it is recommended to verify the warranty of your car before doing so.
If you've lost your car keys and do not have a spare, the best choice is to go to a dealership in your region and purchase a replacement paired to your vehicle. This is the most expensive option, but also the most secure option. If you can prove you are the owner of the vehicle by giving them a copy of your registration or title, they should be able to make your new key right on the spot.