Car Key Replacement Cost
Replacing your car keys could be costly. In some cases you can get the cost covered by a key protection cover which is typically offered as an additional add-on or as part of your car insurance policy.
The cost of replacing your car keys varies dependent on the year, make, and model of your car. In this article, we'll break down the factors that affect the cost of replacing car keys.
The Make and Model of Your Vehicle
It's always a pain to lose your car keys and it's even more difficult when you don't have a spare. This is because, in the majority of cases, you will need to purchase a whole new set of keys if you wish to be able to use your vehicle once again. The cost of replacing a car's key can vary greatly based on the type of vehicle. Modern automobiles come with a wide array of features that can make it more expensive to replace your keys. For instance, high-performance sport cars usually come with keys that are specially designed and costly to duplicate.
Additionally older mechanical key systems also tend to be more expensive to reproduce because they require the expertise of a dealer to operate. Therefore, it is essential to know your car's make and model before getting a quote from a locksmith or automotive dealership. This way, you can expect an accurate price estimate.
The complexity of your key system can affect the cost. For instance, modern keys fobs have a battery and circuitry that makes them more difficult to replace than keys from the past.
Some car owners choose to visit a dealership to have their vehicle keys duplicated, thinking that it will be cheaper and easier. The dealership is likely to charge a premium price for their services. This is because the dealerships' primary goal is to earn profits from their customers.
If auto key replacement to have your car key replaced at the dealership, it might be worthwhile to consider hiring an outside company to handle the work for you. They may be able offer you a lower price than the dealer, and have a team with more experience to help you replace your car key.
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 are unlikely to have the expertise needed to accurately copy your car keys, and they are also more likely to alter your original key or make 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 timing, such as when you're running late to an important meeting or event. You can contact an auto locksmith for a quick and cost-effective solution instead of visiting an auto dealership if you need.
Car keys and FOBs are equipped with circuitry, as well as a specific transponder chip that must be programmed to start the car. In the past the chips were placed inside the cylinder of ignition, but as technology advanced and these chips were moved to the key fobs. The key fobs were upgraded to be more secure and harder to duplicate. However the cost of repairs and replacements increased because the new key fobs had to be programmed by an auto locksmith or a dealer.
Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths for cars have adapted and are able to deal with these modern systems. They can program the new FOBs so they'll be compatible with your vehicle and remove old ones that aren't working. The cost will depend on the year and make, as well as the model.
The type of key that you require will also impact the price. There are two types of car keys that most vehicles use: a traditional metal key that's not connected to a fob or other electronic component and a remote FOB that controls the ignition and unlocks or unlocks the doors. The first type is typically the cheapest to replace because it does not require programming and is able to be cut by an automotive locksmith using a specially-designed blank.
The second kind of key is more expensive to replace since it requires a special transponder chip to unlock the car. This is why it's important to choose an accredited locksmith for your car in the event that you require a new one for your car. Doing it yourself or using tools such as coat hangers could damage the lock cylinder and cause the key to not to function, so it is recommended to seek help in these situations.
The Kind of Key You Are Looking For
There are many different types of car keys. Some are mechanical and just need to be inserted into the ignition cylinder while others include transponders that can unlock doors or start the engine from a distance. The cost of replacing the latter is greater, since it must be programmed by a professional for your vehicle. Locksmiths have been able to adapt the new technology to ensure that you don't need to visit a dealership to obtain these keys.
It's not fun to lose or steal your keys, but it becomes more stressful when you find yourself unable to start your vehicle and have no where to go. In the past, it was easy to obtain a replacement key from any hardware store, or even at the dealership of your car. But now, with the development of advanced security features and the possibility of stealing a car by remote control, it's no longer as simple to find solutions.
You can try tracking down your keys yourself by searching for online groups or contacting the dealer but it's not always an alternative. Most dealers are only capable of creating a new key for your car after you bring it in, and they'll charge you for this service. It's also worth looking into whether the cost of replacing the key is covered by your warranty, roadside assistance coverage or bumper-to-bumper insurance.
If you have a traditional mechanical key, it's affordable to replace it if just need to cut a new one. Most automotive locksmiths are able to duplicate these keys for less than $10. However older models with no transponder chips may cost some more.
The dealership is the most expensive way to purchase a new vehicle key. This is the best choice if you have the original key to show them, but otherwise, it's not worth the hassle, especially in the event that your insurance company covers the cost. If you decide to go this route, be sure to research and compare quotes between dealerships and third-party key specialists.
The Location
Car keys are small electronic devices with circuitry and battery power. They also have transmitters that transmit a code that allows you to start your car and also unlock the doors. They can be costly to replace in the event they break or are lost. The cost of a key is typically not that expensive however the effort required to cut and program the new key for your particular vehicle is what adds up. These costs can vary dependent on the type and complexity of the key as well as the dealer or locksmith you choose to use.
The area you live in will affect how much it will cost to have a replacement car key made. If you reside in rural areas, there might be fewer locksmiths at the auto shop to help you. You may have to pay more if you live in a rural location because they will need to travel further to reach you. If you live in Chicago, you will have many options for automotive locksmiths. You can choose one that charges a competitive price.
In some cases you can save money by replacing the battery on your car key fob. This is something that can be done by most drivers when they follow the directions that are in the owner's manual. Certain car key companies perform this service for free. However, it is important to check the warranty of your vehicle before doing this.
If you lose your car key, and you don't have a spare option, the best thing you can do is visit the nearest dealership and get a replacement that matches the car you have. This is the most expensive but also the most reliable option. If you can prove that you are the owner of the vehicle by providing them a copy of your registration or title, they will be able to generate your new key on the spot.