How to Cut Down on the Cost of a Lost Car Key
The process of replacing a car key at the dealership is costly. There are a variety of ways to reduce the cost of replacement car key.
Much of the cost depends on the year, model and cost of replacement Car key model of the vehicle. Most modern vehicles are equipped with a transponder chip that needs to be connected with a locksmith or dealer.
Mechanical Keys
A few years ago the time when you lost your keys to your car was a simple task that usually required a quick phone call to a locksmith and a trip to the nearest gas station. However, as vehicles are becoming more technologically advanced and so have keys, making them more difficult to replace and possibly more expensive in the event of losing one.
The year, the make and model of your vehicle are the most important factors in determining the price to replace your car keys. Locksmiths are able to duplicate mechanical keys that are old and are cheaper than purchasing keys from a dealer who will have to connect a brand new computer with your car.
The car key fob is an accessory that lets you lock or unlock your doors without the need for an electronic key. Some push-to-start vehicles can be started with key fobs. They are inexpensive and can be easily programmed by a locksmith. Switchblade and laser cut keys are more complex and need to be paired with the vehicle at a dealership, which adds the cost.
Transponder Keys
If your vehicle is older than few decades, it has a chip that communicates with the car when you insert the key. This is a safety measure that stops the ignition of your car from being started without your consent. It is only effective only if the key is equipped with a properly cut transponder in it.
The cost of replacing keys that have been stolen or lost is a little more expensive than standard metal keys because of the additional manufacturing cost for the chip within the key. Keys are also more difficult to program so you’ll need to visit the locksmith or a dealer to get a replacement car keys cost key.
When you lose a transponder key, the most convenient place to call is the dealership where you bought your vehicle. You’ll pay a higher price than if you hired an independent auto locksmith. You’ll also have to wait longer before you get service. If you do not want to wait, a local locksmith can provide a faster and more affordable solution.
Key Fobs
Modern cars are equipped with keyless entry and remote starting. However, they can also cost a lot to replace if lost or stolen. The cost of replacing a fob ranges from $50-$400 depending on the manufacturer and model of the vehicle. In addition, some fobs require reprogramming, which can cost an additional $50 or more to the total cost of car key replacement.
A standard key fob is a rectangular plastic piece that features a button operated by a battery which opens the doors and, in certain cases, starts the engine. The popularity of this type of key increased during the ’90s. This type of key is much less costly to replace than a transponder one, which requires a special chip.
If your key fob is simply not charging there’s a chance to save money by replacing it yourself. The majority of fobs utilize CR2032 batteries, which are available at hardware stores or big-box retailers for $10 or less. Check the owner’s manual or YouTube to discover steps for replacing the battery. You can also head to Batteries Plus to get a cheaper alternative to the dealer.
Switchblade Keys
Not long ago the loss or misplacement of your car key replacement cost keys wasn’t a big deal. As cars have become more technologically advanced and advanced, it’s now becoming more difficult to replace keys. If your car has a transponder or smart key or key fob, then you might be required to call roadside assistance and be towed back to the dealer to obtain a new one.
The kind of car key replacement cost key you have determines the amount it will cost replacement car key to purchase an entirely new one. Keys that are traditional are affordable to replace. They have metal shanks that lock and unlock ignition.
Key fobs can be used to lock or unlock your vehicle remotely. They’re more expensive to replace than traditional key. They use a wireless network to connect with the chip of the vehicle which makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate the keys. Some key fobs have a switchblade that folds into the key fob, Cost of replacement car key and then pops out when a button is pressed, similar to knives. This is referred to as «anti-theft technology» and adds an extra layer of security.
Smart Keys Keys
Prior to the introduction of key fob technology, which was common, misplacing keys to cars wasn’t much of issue. Hardware stores, locksmiths, and even car dealerships could make an exchange key. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced their keys have become more expensive to replace.
For instance, some vehicles have smart keys that allow you to start and unlock the vehicle even if the key is still in your pocket. The system recognizes the code that is on the key and validates it in milliseconds. This prevents other individuals from using your code on a different key to unlock the car and start it.
If you own a brand newer model vehicle with a smart key, the best way to go is to go to your local car dealership. They’ll have the most up-to-date equipment and will be competent to cut and program your new key on the spot. It’s more expensive, but the service is more efficient and more reliable. Make sure you bring your car’s VIN number which is typically found on the driver’s side of the dashboard or on your insurance documents.