Car Key Replacement Cost
Replacing a car key can cost a lot. It is possible to have the cost of replacing your car key covered by a Key Protection Cover, which you can purchase as an additional item to your insurance plan or as a separate item.
The cost of replacing your car keys is different depending on the year the model, make and year of your vehicle. In this article, we will break down the factors that influence the cost of replacing car keys.
What is the model and make of your vehicle?
Losing keys to your car is an issue, but it's more challenging if you don't have an extra. This is because, in most instances, you'll have to get an entire new set of keys if you wish to return to your vehicle. However, the key for your car replacement cost can differ significantly dependent on the specific car you own. Modern automobiles come with a wide range of features that can increase the cost of replacing your keys. For instance sports cars that have high performance typically have specialized keys that can be expensive to duplicate.
It's also more expensive to duplicate the older mechanical keys because they require the knowledge of a dealer in order to work. Therefore, it's essential to know the car's model and make prior to getting an estimate from a locksmith or auto dealership. You can then get an estimate of the cost.
Another factor that will affect the car key replacement cost is how complicated your key system is. Modern key fobs, for example include a circuit and battery that make them more difficult to replace than previous car keys.
Some car owners go to the dealer to duplicate their vehicle keys, believing that it's cheaper. However, that's not always true, as the dealership is likely to charge an extra fee for their services. This is because the dealership's main goal is to make money from their customers.
You might want to think about hiring a third party company to replace your car keys if can't afford to replace them at the dealership. They might be able to provide a lower price than the dealership and they will probably have a more knowledgeable team to assist you with any key replacement requirements.
It is also important to note that it is recommended to avoid hardware stores or third-party businesses to duplicate your keys. They lack the knowledge to make accurate duplicates of your car keys. They are also more likely than to provide a substandard replacement or alter the original key.
The Automotive Locksmith You Use
It's a pity that nobody would like to experience. It's a scenario that often occurs at the worst moment, such as when you're late to an important event or meeting. You can contact an auto locksmith for a quick and cost-effective solution instead of going to a dealership if you want.
Car keys and FOBs are miniature electronic devices that are equipped with circuitry and have a special transponder chip, which needs to be programmed to allow them to start the vehicle. In the past, the chips were placed in the ignition cylinder. As technology advanced, the chips were moved to the keyfobs. The key fobs were made more secure and difficult to duplicate. However, the cost of repairs and replacements grew due to the fact that the new key fobs needed to be programmed either by an automotive locksmith or by a dealer.
Many locksmiths for automotive are now capable of working with these newer systems. They can program your new FOBs to be compatible with your vehicle, and even remove old ones that aren't working. The cost of this service can vary depending on the year the vehicle was manufactured, as well as the model of your car.
The kind of key you require also affects the cost. The majority of vehicles have two kinds of keys: a conventional metal fob that's not connected to the ignition or any other electrical component, and a remote key that locks and unlocks doors. The former type is usually the most inexpensive to replace because it does not require programming and is able to be cut by an automotive locksmith using a specific blank.
It is more expensive to replace the transponder keys since it is needed to unlock the car. This is why it's important to use an authorized locksmith for your vehicle when you need to get a new one for your vehicle. If you attempt to do it yourself or use tools such as coat hangers, you can harm the lock and the key will not work.
The Kind of Key You Will Need
There are many different types of keys for cars. Some are mechanical and have to be inserted into the ignition cylinder while others have a transponder and can unlock doors or start the engine from a distance. The keys with transponders are more expensive to replace, since it requires a specialist to program it to your specific vehicle. Fortunately, locksmiths have been able to adapt to the new technology, and you don't need to visit the dealership to get one of these keys.
The loss of your keys or lost isn't a good feeling, but the situation becomes much more stressful when you realize you have no way to start your car and have no where to go. In the past, this wasn't a problem because you could easily obtain a replacement key from any hardware store, or your car dealership. But with the advent of advanced security features and the possibility of stealing a car via remote control, it's not so easy to find a solution.
You can search online for your keys or contact the dealer. However this isn't always an option. Dealers can only create a new key for your vehicle once you have brought it in to them. They will charge you for this service. You should also check if your warranty roadside service coverage, bumper-to-bumper insurance will cover the cost of the replacement key.
If you have a conventional mechanical key, it's relatively inexpensive to replace it if you just need to cut an additional one. Most locksmiths for automotive can duplicate keys for less than $10. However older models that don't have transponder chips might cost a bit more.
The dealership is the most expensive way to get a new car key. If you own the original key, this is the best option. Otherwise it's not worth the hassle, especially if the cost is covered by your insurance. If you choose to go this route, make sure you compare estimates and compare them between the dealership and key specialists.
The Location
Car keys are miniature electronic devices with batteries and circuitry. They also have transmitters that can send a code to start the car and also unlock the doors. They can be expensive to replace in the event you lose or break them. The cost of the key itself is usually not very much but the effort to cut and program the new one for your particular vehicle is what really adds up. The cost of a new key could vary widely based on its complexity, type and the dealer.
The place you live in can also influence how much it will cost to get a new car key. For instance, if you live in a rural area there may be fewer automotive locksmiths who can assist you with your issue. You might pay more if you live in a rural area because they need to travel further to reach you. If you reside in Chicago you'll have many options for automotive locksmiths. You can choose one that is priced competitively.
In certain instances you can save money by replacing the battery on your key fob for your car. This can be accomplished by the majority of drivers if they follow the instructions included in their vehicle's owner's manual. Some companies that sell car keys offer this for free, but it is a good idea to check your car's warranty before doing this.
If you've have lost your car key and don't have a spare the best choice is to go to an area dealership and get a new one paired to your vehicle. This is the most expensive option, but it's also the most reliable. If you can prove that you are the owner of the vehicle by showing them the original registration or title, they should be able to make an additional key for you right on the spot.