How to Avoid Expensive Replacement Car Key Costs

It's not fun to lose or misplace your car keys. However, it can be costly to replace keys.

The cost of a new key can vary considerably depending on the type of key, how it's replaced and the location you'll be getting it done. Here are a few of the main factors that affect the cost of a replacement car key.

Make and Model of Your Vehicle

In the past the loss or misplacement of your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could buy a simple metal key from your local hardware store for pennies. Nowadays, automobiles are more advanced in technology and so are keys. This makes it more difficult for thieves to steal a car, but also increases the cost of replacing a stolen or lost key.

The model and make of your vehicle is one of the most important factors that determine the price of a new key replacement. Certain manufacturers produce more intricate, high-tech keys than others. This means they'll be more difficult to duplicate or program a new key for. Certain features on key fobs may not be available at all locksmith shops or auto shops, so you will have go to the dealer purchase them.

There are many different types of keys and each has their own set of costs. For instance, some cars utilize a switchblade type key that folds into the fob, much like the standard house key. They can cost as high as $125 to replace, while chips that are basic tend to cost less than that.

The security of the key also has a significant effect on its cost. A majority of modern car keys come with anti-theft devices that stop them from being copied by thieves. These features include remote control, microchips in the keys and an encrypted code to stop the key from being scanned.

Smart keys that open doors and start engines are the most secure. These keys can be cloned at some auto shops and locksmiths, but most dealerships will require you to bring the original key with you so that they can connect it to your vehicle. This could be costly, but it is a safe way to ensure your car won't be stolen by a thief.

The Location

The replacement of car keys isn't a pleasant experience. It can be a hassle and can cost a lot. However, you can cut down on many of the expenses by knowing what it will cost prior to when you go to the store or contact roadside assistance. You can also find the most accurate estimate by knowing what kind of car key you require and how old it is and the price you're willing to spend for it.

The location of your house is a major factor in the price of a replacement car key. If you live in a rural area such as a rural area there could be fewer locksmiths to choose from and the prices will be higher as a result. If you reside in a big city, you'll have numerous locksmiths to choose from, and you can find an affordable price for the replacement car key fob of your car keys.

Take into consideration the time of year that you are changing your keys. Prices tend to be more expensive during summer due to the high demand. If you're able to get your transponder keys or the basic ones replaced until after the off-season you'll probably save some money.

As car technology has evolved and so do the keys for cars. They are no longer simple metal pieces. They are miniature electronic devices that have circuitry and batteries. The cost to replace a car key with chips can range from $220 to $350, depending on factors such as the type of key, the price to cut the key, the cost to tow it or visit a locksmith, as well as the cost to program the key.

It's also worth mentioning that there are less expensive keys for cars you can buy from the internet or in some hardware stores, but they may not work or even be compatible with your car. If you're looking for a way to replace your car keys more affordably and quickly than through dealers, give us a call now. We'll be more than willing to assist! Our locksmiths have a wealth of training and years of experience. We use the most advanced technology to provide quick and efficient service.

The Key's Model and Make

In contrast to the past when you were able to go to a hardware store and pick up a new key for pennies, today's automobiles make use of electronic components to unlock doors and deactivate the immobilizer. This means that if one loses your car keys, or simply want to create an extra set, it can be a costly process.

There are ways to lower the cost of purchasing new car keys. The first step is understanding the various types of keys and their costs. The next step is knowing what factors can increase overall cost of having a new key made.

The type and model of your vehicle will have a significant impact on the price of a new key. Every manufacturer has its unique key design. A lot of them come with advanced security features. The more complex the key, the greater cost you'll pay.

Some of the latest models have remote transmitters, also referred to as key fobs, that 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 dealership or auto locksmith to get help.

The kind of key you own will also impact how expensive it is to make duplicate sets. A traditional metal key will cost less to duplicate than an all-in one laser-cut key. A laser-cut car key has circuitry that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle. The cost of a new key will vary on the kind you own.

Lastly, you should consider whether or not you have any coverage for losing or damaging your keys. Some insurance companies offer an insurance program that covers the cost of replacing lost or damaged keys to cars, up to a limit. This is an excellent option to think about for families with young children living in your home or if your car has been stolen.

Security Features

When it comes to cars there are a lot of things that can be wrong. That's why it's essential to have a reliable car key replacement plan in place before anything happens. A comprehensive program for key replacement can include a variety of different keys and fobs so that you don't have to be concerned about the cost.

The kind of car you own is among the most important factors that influence the cost of replacement keys for your car. Keys for vehicles that are newer can be more expensive because of the advanced technology. For example, some push-to-start vehicles have key fobs that need to be paired with the vehicle via a computer. This can be a lengthy and expensive, and requires a professional to do it properly.

Some newer models come with security features that make the keys more difficult to take. For instance, some models have key fobs that lock the car doors if they're modified or have mirror folding capabilities. These key fobs require a more sophisticated programming procedure that only dealers can accomplish and are typically more expensive to replace than standard metal keys.

Certain newer cars include key fobs that have anti-theft features. They disable the engine in the event the key is stolen or if it has been broken off inside the ignition. They are also more costly to replace since they must be paired with the vehicle via a computer program which only dealers have access to.

Additionally, some of the newer keys are made with a switchblade style which houses the metal piece within plastic. These are more expensive to replace because they require a different kind of cutting tool. In some cases, these can be replaced on the spot by an automotive locksmith if you provide the key's model and year, along with evidence that you have ownership of the vehicle (like your registration or title).

All of these things can add to having a new key to your vehicle. It's why it's essential for drivers to have a reliable car key replacement car keys cost program in place so that they don't end up paying hundreds of dollars for replacement costs if they lose their keys or have to have them duplicated.