Car Key Replacement Cost
Replacing your car's key could be costly. In certain instances you can get the cost covered by a key protection plan that is usually offered as an additional option or as a part of your insurance policy.
The cost of replacing your car keys can vary dependent on the year the model, make and year of your vehicle. In this article we will look at the factors that influence the cost of replacing car keys.
The Make and Model of Your Vehicle
Losing your car keys is always a big hassle, but it can be even more difficult if you don't have an extra. This is because in the majority of cases, you will need to purchase a new set of keys if you wish to use your vehicle again. However, the car key replacement cost may vary dependent on the specific car you own. This is because modern vehicles have a range of options, and these features can make it more expensive to replace your keys. For instance, high-performance sports cars usually come with specialized keys that can be expensive to duplicate.
In addition, older mechanical key systems are also more expensive to reproduce because they require the expertise of a dealer to make them work. Therefore, it's essential to know your car's model and make before requesting an estimate from a locksmith or automotive dealership. This allows you to get an accurate price estimate.
Another factor that affects the car key replacement cost is how complex your key system is. For instance, modern keys fobs are equipped with batteries and circuitry that makes them more difficult to replace than older keys.
Some car owners choose to go to the dealership to have their car keys duplicated as they believe it's less expensive and more convenient. The dealership will likely charge a premium 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 key replaced at the dealership, it may be worthwhile to consider hiring an outside company to handle the work for you. They might be able to offer you a lower cost than the dealer and have a staff that has more experience to help you replace your car key.
It's also worth noting that it's recommended to avoid hardware stores or third-party businesses to have your keys duplicated. 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 nobody wants to endure. It's a scenario that often happens at the worst possible moment, such as when you're running late to an important meeting or event. If you're looking for a quick and affordable solution, you should call an auto locksmith rather than going to the dealership.
Car keys and FOBs contain circuitry and transponder chip that must be programmed in order to start the car. In the past the chips were located in the ignition cylinder however as technology advanced, these chips moved to the key fobs. This made the key fobs more secure and harder to duplicate however, it also increased the cost of repairs and replacements since the new key fobs had to be programmed by an auto locksmith or dealer in order to function.
Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths have adapted and are able to deal with these modern systems. They can program new FOBs that work with your vehicle, or remove old ones if they don't work. The cost will depend on your vehicle's year and make.
The type of key that you need will also affect the cost. Most vehicles use two types of keys: a traditional metal fob that is not attached to the ignition or any other electrical component. The second is remote keys that lock and unlocks doors. The former is the easiest to replace since 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 vehicle. This is why it's important to only use an accredited locksmith for your car in the event that you require an alternative key for your vehicle. Doing it yourself or trying to use tools like coat hangers may damage the lock cylinder and make it impossible for the key to work, which is why it is recommended to seek assistance in these instances.
The Type of Key You Will Need
There are many different kinds of keys. Some are mechanical and have to be inserted into the ignition cylinder while others include transponders and allow you to unlock doors or start the engine from an extended distance. The cost of replacing the latter type is greater, since it requires programming by a professional to your vehicle. Locksmiths have adapted the new technology to ensure that you don't need to visit a dealership to get these keys.
Having your keys stolen or lost isn't fun, but the situation becomes more stressful when realize you have no way to start your car and you have nowhere to go. In the past it wasn't a problem because you could easily find a replacement key at any hardware store, or your car dealership. But with the advent of advanced security features and the possibility of stealing a car through remote control, it's not so easy to find an answer.
You can search online groups for your keys or call the dealer. However, this is not always an option. Dealers can only create a new key for your vehicle after you bring it to them. They will charge you for this service. It's also worth checking if the cost of replacing the key is covered under your warranty, roadside assistance coverage or bumper-to-bumper insurance.
If you're looking to change your mechanical key it is possible to do this for a relatively low price when you just require cutting one. Most locksmiths for automotive will be able to duplicate these keys for less than $10, although you might need to pay a little more for older models that do not utilize transponder chips.
The most expensive method of obtaining a replacement car key is to go to the dealership. If you have the original key it's the best option. Otherwise it's not worth the hassle, especially in the event that the cost is covered by your insurance. If you choose to go down this route, make sure to shop around for quotes and compare them with the key specialists and the dealership.
The Location
Car keys are electronic devices that include circuitry and batteries. They also have transmitters that send a code to start the car and open the doors. As such, they can be expensive to replace if you have them stolen or damaged. The cost of the actual key itself is not too much however the effort required to cut and program the new key for your particular vehicle is what really adds up. The cost of a new key can vary greatly depending on its complexity, type and dealer.
remote car key replacement live in will affect how much it will cost to get an alternative car key. For instance, if you reside in a rural area, there may not be many automotive locksmiths available to help you with your problem. This means that you'll need to pay more for their services because they'll have to travel longer distances to reach you. If you live in Chicago you'll 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 in your car key fob. This can be done by most drivers if they follow the instructions provided in their car's owner's manual. Some companies that sell car keys can even provide this at no cost, but it is recommended to check your car's warranty prior to doing this.
If you've lost your car keys and you don't have an extra, the best thing to do is visit the nearest dealership and get an alternative that matches the car you have. This is the most expensive option, but it's also the most reliable. If you can prove you are the owner of the vehicle by giving them a copy of your registration or title, they will be able to make a new key for you on the spot.