5 Car Keys Replacement Cost Lessons Learned From The Professionals

What Determines the Price of a New Car Key?

Whether it's the latest iPhone or car keys, new technology tends to cost more. But what is the cost of a brand new car key?

The first thing to consider is the type of key you own. The cheapest keys to duplicate and replace are mechanical keys without transponders or chips.

Basic Key Fobs

When key fobs first introduced, they were simple to duplicate by a locksmith in the area. Nowadays, advanced models are more than just a way to unlock the door. They also double as a convenience device and can even serve as a security measure. All this technology comes at cost.

Older cars usually have a basic valet keys that look like keys you purchase at the hardware store. These are the cheapest keys to make and can be cut by a local mechanic, or a dealer for cars.

Modern vehicles use fobs with security chips. These are more expensive and challenging to make, as they must be reprogrammed. This can be done by a dealer, since it will take one or two minutes.

Consumer Reports found that some fobs are available through aftermarket stores or online auto-parts stores, lost car key replacement cost often for about $200 less than what you'd pay at a dealership. However, before attempting to re-programme your own fob, be sure to check the owner's manual. Certain fobs require the original key be placed in the ignition to work and others might require a particular type of battery.

Transponder Keys

If you own a car that is more recent that you own, it may have an electronic transponder within the vehicle. This chip communicates with the vehicle whenever the ignition is turned on. This makes it harder for anyone else to start your car, although it's not impossible. This type of key is more expensive and requires a separate machine to program the chip.

The cheapest method to obtain an entirely new car key is with an old-fashioned, mechanical key made of all-metal that doesn't contain any electronic components in it. This typically costs less than $10, however rare keys for older cars can go up to $25.

The majority of locksmiths for cars have the equipment needed to create this type of key for most vehicles, which is much cheaper than an auto dealer. However, if your key has the proximity switch or remote on it, you may require the assistance of an expert with the right equipment for the specific model. A reliable locksmith can inform you what is needed for your vehicle. They'll also be able provide a quote before doing any work.

Laser Cut Keys Keys

The one thing you do not want is to be locked out of your vehicle. It's always a good idea to have a spare car key replacement cost key. If you lose yours and don't have spares, a trip to the dealership could cost you a lot of money for a new key fob as well as a programming service.

A locksmith who makes use of laser cut keys is capable of offering you the cheapest alternative. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional keys and require a precise cutting technique. They also have built-in transponder chips that need to be programmed for your particular vehicle.

In contrast to the traditional keys that can be copied with standard key-cutting machines High-security laser keys have a more compact base made of metal and are cut using an extremely small milling machine that is based on tiny drill bits. This makes them more difficult to duplicate and are a great way to keep your Lost car key replacement cost safe from thieves. Some laser key machines can even cut non-automotive residential or commercial keys using code, so you won't have to pay for another rekeying service.

Switchblade Keys

A switchblade car key folds up inside a fob similar to a knife. It can be removed by pressing a button. This style is popular for drivers who wish to put their keys perfectly into a pocket and also reduce bulk. A switchblade key could cost up to $200, including the metal part and fob.

Certain high-tech keys for cars are advertised as anti-theft devices. These oddly shaped shafts, known as Tibbe Keys were invented by Jaguar in the year 1990, and later were used on Ford products. They're cylindrical and not flat. They're harder to duplicate than flat keys, which makes them more secure.

The cost of replacement is higher than for other types of keys due to rolling security codes. They can only be replaced at a dealership for cars, and that can run up to $400. Locksmiths can replace these costly keys for a fraction of cost Replacement car Key charged by dealers. You can keep your switchblade key and avoid the hassle of seeking replacing it at a dealership.

Smart Keys Keys

You'll pay more for a replacement key if you have a vehicle equipped with smart key technology. This type of key comes equipped with advanced features, such as the ability to unlock the vehicle remotely with a smartphone application or open the sunroof and windows by pressing and holding a button.

Depending on the manufacturer the key fobs are also equipped with backup features. Open Road Auto Group says that when the battery of the key fob gets depleted while in use, some systems will still lock doors or turn on the ignition.

Locksmiths are the best option when it comes to creating the new smart car keys. They have the equipment and the technology to make keys on-site. Dealerships can make a key for you, but they will cost replacement car key more and take longer as they will require your VIN number and evidence of ownership. A locksmith will be able to easily collect this information. They will then be able create an alternative key that will work in the event of a loss or lockout.