Car Replacement Key Cost - How to Save 50% by Hiring a Tasker
If you lose your car keys, it could cost you a significant amount of money to replace keys. You can save up 50 percent by using a Tasker instead of going to the dealership.
Auto locksmiths are the most commonly used option. They might not have all the equipment required for certain newer models.
The Make and Model of Your Vehicle
Car keys and key fobs are miniature electronic devices that contain circuitry and a battery to perform their functions. They are quite costly to make, even without having the extra features that are typically present on modern keys, like remote start and keyless entry. These features can make a replacement even more costly as they require special equipment, which can be difficult to locate or create.
The year, make and model of your vehicle can affect the cost of replacing the key in your car. This is because newer vehicles tend to have more sophisticated key systems that can be more expensive to replace than older models. car key replacement price of these keys include transponder chips which must be connected by a locksmith or dealer with the vehicle in order to function properly.
These chips can add between $75 to $200 to the total cost of making a brand new key, and can become much more expensive if you have lost the original key, or have a push to start or smart key fob that has to be programmed.
The type of key that you require will also impact the cost. Standard key fobs cost the least, however they need to be programmed and cut to fit your vehicle. Keys with a built-in transponder chip cost more, as are laser-cut keys with a shorter shank and less serrated edges.
In certain instances it is possible to purchase an additional key from the manufacturer directly. This is usually less expensive than going to a locksmith, but it could take longer. If you're a vehicle owner, this may be worth considering, but it is important to check your warranty or roadside assistance coverage first before deciding if they will cover the cost of a replacement. Also, take into consideration where you'll replace your key. This can affect the cost.
The Technology of Your Keys
In the last 30 years, car keys replacements have evolved significantly. From basic metal keys to high-end transponder chips that require a unique key fob to unlock the doors and start the car, modern automobile security features are making our cars more secure than they ever were. These security measures increase the cost of replacing lost keys.
The type of key that you have will determine the cost of replacing it. Standard metal keys without chip inside are the most affordable. However, they're not as secure as other types of keys. A transponder key that has a chip that communicates with your car's internal system, will cost more to replace. These keys need to be programmed either by an auto locksmith or a dealer to function.
Smart keys are another costly type of key that makes use of the proximity sensor to open and start the car. These are typically used in more advanced cars. They can be costly to replace, and they require a key fob that reads the key's information.
It is also possible to replace the battery on your keyfob. This isn't a typical problem, but it can occur and cost money if it occurs. It is possible to purchase replacement batteries at your local hardware store for under $10. You can also ask a dealer for help or call roadside assistance. However these options are costly and are not always available.
A spare key can help you save money if you lose yours. The storage of a spare key at your office or home is less expensive than trying to get a new key made by the side of the road. It's better to spend a few dollars on an extra key now rather than risk losing your car in the future and paying the cost of replacing it.
The cost of replacing the car key will be based on the make, model and year. Keep your key in a secure place and never leave it unattended.
What kind of key do you require?
Many of us have lost car keys at one time or another. Fortunately, for most of us, our cars return like magic and we scurry out the door, forgetting all about our peril in loosing those keys. For those who's keys have been lost in an alternate dimension or even flushed down a toilet (we won't think about it) the process of finding replacements is a major hassle and a huge expense.
Car key replacements differ in price depending on a number of different aspects. The type of key used is one of the major factors as some keys are more difficult to replace. Keys made of metal are the most commonly used due to their mechanical nature. Any locksmith can replace them. But some keys, like key fobs and smart keys, are a bit more difficult. These keys have transponder chips that need to be linked to the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. These keys can be more expensive than regular metal keys.
You'll also need to know where to look to get a new key based on the type. If your car's key has a push-to-start button or a key fob with switchblade, they will only be available through a dealer and could cost you upwards of $200. If your key has transponder chips but is a traditional key, you can have it duplicated by a locksmith at less cost.
In addition to the type of key you'll need to determine whether or not your replacement will require a computer program be activated. If your key requires an application on a computer to function it will cost more to have it programmed by a dealer. You can usually purchase replacement key fobs from companies that specialize in. However, before you do that ensure you consult with your manufacturer to see if they'll be compatible with your car and to find out what it will cost to have them programmed.
For some drivers, getting a new car key can be covered by their auto insurance company. It's usually covered in their roadside assistance add-ons, or extended bumper-to-bumper coverage. It is best to inquire about the policy of your insurance company to get exact details on this though.
The Location
If you've lost your car keys or they were accidentally destroyed during a fire, most all insurance companies will cover the cost of replacements. They'll ask you to provide proof of ownership (registration or title), and some will also have locksmiths on call to assist with key fobs. This is why you should always keep an extra key in your house.
It's relatively inexpensive to replace traditional car keys that are still in use by many cars. You can usually find an original key from a hardware store for less than $10. However, more advanced key fobs can be a lot more expensive. This includes the remote keyless access (RKE) which allows you to open your car's doors from a distance and open it by pressing one button. They are typically found in luxury cars. Key fobs like these are usually as part of a vehicle's higher quality or technology-related packages, and they can cost between $200 and $500.
Another aspect that influences the cost of replacing a key is whether you require a new key or just the fob that controls it. A new key will come with an electronic chip that connects to the vehicle, whereas the old key could have one that does not. If the key does not have a chip, it won't be able to start the car. It must be replaced by a new fob.
A new key fob will likely feature a more intricate internal design which could increase the cost of its replacement. Additionally, it will need to be programmed to work with your particular vehicle, which will add to the total cost.
The best method to save money on a replacement car key is to compare prices with different providers. Using a smartphone app like Yelp or Foursquare can help you locate the best prices in your area. Also, it's an excellent idea to plan your appointment for the next day if possible, as most businesses will be more expensive on holidays or after hours.