Car Key Replacement Cost
Replacing a car key can be expensive. In some cases you can have the procedure covered by a key protection plan that is usually available as an option or as a part of your car insurance policy.
The cost of replacing the keys to your car depends on the model, year, and make of your vehicle. In this article, we will examine the factors that affect the cost of replacement car keys.
The Make and Model of Your Vehicle
It's always a headache to lose your car keys and it's even more difficult when you don’t have an extra. That's because, in most instances, you'll have to purchase a new set if you want to be able to use your vehicle once again. The cost of replacing a car key can differ greatly based on the car. Modern cars come with a broad variety of features that could increase the cost of replacing your keys. For instance, sports cars with high performance typically have specialized keys that are expensive to duplicate.
In addition the older mechanical keys also tend to be more expensive to reproduce because they require dealer knowledge to make them work. So, it's important to know the car's model and make prior to getting a quote from a locksmith or an automotive dealership. You can then get an estimate of the cost.
Another factor that affects the cost of replacing car keys is how complex your key system is. For instance, modern key fobs are equipped with batteries and circuitry that makes them more complicated to replace than older keys.
Some car owners opt to go to the dealership to have their car keys duplicated because they think it will be cheaper and more convenient. The dealership is likely to charge a premium for their services. This is because the dealership's main goal is to make money from their customers.
You may want to consider hiring a third party company to replace your car keys if cannot afford to do so at the dealership. They may be able to provide a lower cost 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 third-party companies or hardware stores to have your keys duplicated. These businesses lack the expertise to make accurate duplicates of your car keys. They are also more likely than not to make a substandard replacement or alter the original key.
The Automotive Locksmith You Use
It's a pity that no one wants. This scenario can happen at the worst moment, like when you are in a hurry to attend an important event or meeting. If you're looking for a quick and cost-effective solution, you should call an auto locksmith instead of heading to the dealership.
Car keys and FOBs are tiny electronic devices that contain circuitry and have a special transponder chip that needs to be programmed in order for them to start the vehicle. In the past the chips were located in the cylinder for ignition however as technology advanced and these chips were moved to the key fobs. This made the key fobs more secure and difficult to duplicate however, it also increased the cost of replacements and repairs since the new key fobs had to be programmed by an automotive locksmith or dealer to function.
Many automotive locksmiths are now able to work with the latest systems. They can program the new FOBs to work with your vehicle and can even take out old ones that aren't working. The cost of this service will vary according to the year the vehicle was manufactured, as well as the model of your vehicle.
The type of key you need will also affect the cost. Most vehicles use two types of keys: a traditional metal fob that's not attached to the ignition or any other electrical component. The second is a remote key that locks and unlocks doors. The latter is usually the least expensive to replace because it doesn't require programming and can be cut by an automotive locksmith using a specially-designed blank.
The second type of key is more expensive to replace as it requires a special transponder chip to unlock the car. This is why it's essential to only use a reputable automotive locksmith in the event that you require an alternative key for your vehicle. Doing it yourself or using tools such as coat hangers could damage the lock cylinder and make it impossible for the key to work, so it is recommended to seek help in these situations.
The Type of Key You Need
There are a variety of keys for cars. Some are mechanical and have to be inserted into the ignition cylinder while others have transponders and allow you to unlock doors or start the engine from a distance. The cost of replacing the latter type is higher since it requires programming by a professional to your vehicle. Locksmiths have been able to adapt the new technology so that you don't need to visit a dealership to obtain these keys.
Losing your keys or getting them lost isn't fun however, the situation becomes more stressful when you discover that you don't have a way to start your car and you have nowhere to go. In the past, you could easily obtain a replacement key from any hardware store, or even at a dealership for your car. But with the advent of advanced security features and the possibility of stealing a car via remote control, it's no longer so easy to find an answer.
You can search on the internet for your keys or contact the dealer. However it's not always an option. Most dealers are only able to make a replacement key for your vehicle after you have brought it in, and they'll charge you for this service. You should also determine if your warranty, roadside service coverage or bumper-to-bumper insurance covers the cost of the replacement key.
If you have a traditional mechanical key, it's inexpensive to replace it if you only need to cut a new one. Most automotive locksmiths will be able to duplicate these for under $10, although you might need to pay a little more for older models that don't utilize transponder chips.
The most expensive method of obtaining the replacement of a car key is to visit the dealership. If you own the original key it's the best alternative. Otherwise it's not worth the hassle, especially if the cost is covered by your insurance. If you choose to go down this route, make sure you compare quotes and compare them with the key specialists and the dealership.
The Location
Car keys are electronic devices with circuitry and batteries. They also have a transmitter that sends a code to the car in order to open its doors and start the engine. This means that they can be expensive to replace if you lose them or break them. The cost of the actual key itself is not that expensive, but the work required to cut and program the new one to your specific vehicle is what adds up. car key replacement of these keys can vary greatly depending on the type and complexity of the key and the dealer or locksmith you choose to make it.
The location you live can also influence how much it will cost to get a new car key. If you reside in rural areas, there could be less automotive locksmiths to help you. This means that you'll have to pay more for their services as they will need to travel farther 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 charges a competitive price.
In certain instances you can save money by replacing the battery on the key fob of your car. This is something that can be accomplished by the majority of drivers when they follow the directions included in their vehicle's owner's manual. Certain car key companies will offer this service at no cost. However, automotive key replacement to check the warranty of your car prior to doing this.
If you lose your car keys and you don't have an extra option, the best thing you can do is go to an auto dealer in your area and purchase an alternative that matches your vehicle. This is the most expensive option, however, it's also the most reliable. If you can prove you are the owner of the vehicle by providing them an original copy of your registration or title, they should be able to make an additional key for you immediately.