10 Unexpected Car Key Cost Tips

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Tips to Save Money on Car Keys Replacement Cost

Car keys used to be cheap and easy to replace, but now it can cost quite a bit. It's all dependent on your car's year, model and year of manufacture.

It's cheaper to make duplicate keys at a local locksmith store or hardware store rather than replacing the one you lost (a key replacement). The following are the main cost factors.

Basic Key Fobs

You'll probably find keys in your purse, pocket, or junk drawer. These small, handy gadgets can do more than lock and unlock your car--they double as an additional security measure and a significant theft deterrent. But they're also expensive to replace car keys cost in the event of their loss damaged, broken or stolen. Consumer Reports reveals a few easy tips to save the cost of replacing car keys cost your key fob.

Talk to your local locksmith or mechanic. You might be able get back on the road in just a fraction of the cost that dealerships charge. "My guy can do an entry-level key, which includes key-cutting and programming, for about $200," says locksmith Phil Genesky in San Francisco. "He isn't equipped for some of the newer European models, though."

The majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that must be programmed to work with your vehicle. That's where things really start to get expensive. Key fobs on the latest models can cost as much as $400, depending on the model. To top it off you may need to purchase a brand new mechanical backup key and pay to have it programmed. Before you pay the cash, you should check with your warranty, auto insurance or roadside assistance insurance to see if they cover fobs for keys. Consider looking online for fobs that are compatible with your model and make. They are usually laser-cut and programmed at a fraction of the price dealers charge.

Transponder Keys

Since the 1990s, many automobile manufacturers have added microchips in the key head to add an additional layer of security. This chip is called transponder and has an unique code that communicates with the vehicle. When the key is inserted in the ignition it broadcasts the code to the immobilizer. If the code matches it allows the engine to start. They are more difficult to duplicate than those made of metal, and they reduce the chance that your car will be taken. However, thieves have evolved and have discovered ways around these systems.

To copy a transponder chip, locksmiths need to have special equipment that reads the chip and then clones it onto an uncut key. This makes the key slightly more expensive one than a flat metal standard key. Also, most transponder keys use a battery, which will need to be replaced periodically.

Many people assume that a transponder key is more than a conventional key fob or a remote head key (RHK). But, Replacement Car Keys Cost this isn't always the situation. Some of these newer keys can be duplicated in local hardware shops which makes them cheaper than an original key that needs to be programmed. They are also cheaper than smart keys which are purchased from the dealer and can cost anywhere from $200 to $500.

Switchblade Keys

It's been a long time when misplacing or losing your car keys wasn't a big problem. With the advancements in technology in cars keys, a replacement can cost hundreds of dollars.

Traditional keys are basic metal locks that fit in the ignition cylinder to unlock or lock your doors. They are cheap to replace at a hardware or locksmith store.

Transponder keys are more advanced version of a conventional key, which has an embedded computer chip that wirelessly connects to the car to open and start it. The cost to replace this type of key can be as high as $250, as the car must be reprogrammed in order to recognize it.

When not in use the blades of switchblade car keys, also called VATS or PASS Keys, fold up into the fob. If you wish to use it, just push a button and it will pop the blade out to use. This kind of key is more costly to replace car keys cost than laser cut or basic keys as you will need to buy a new blade along with the key fob. It is also necessary to contact the dealer directly to request replacement car keys cost uk for this type of key, since it requires specialized programming. The dealer might charge fees for this service. You should always store the spare car key in a safe place.

Smart Keys

Smart keys are becoming increasingly popular. They are key fobs with a mechanical key blade, and also contain transponder technology. They are able to unlock doors and, in some cases, even start cars without taking keys out of your purse or pocket. Some of them keep the settings of specific drivers and others allow remote control of windows and sunroofs. These devices typically cost over $100 and must be programmed by a locksmith or dealer with specific equipment.

These smart keys can only be duplicated by a manufacturer-approved dealership, which means you'll pay more to get a replacement car keys cost [Recommended Resource site] key from them than you would for an old-school bayonet-style metal key. You'll also need to give the VIN number of your vehicle to the dealership to join a key with your car.

Auto locksmiths are the most affordable and fastest way to acquire an extra key for your car. If you don't possess your car's VIN, you can try to get a duplicate key from roadside assistance or your insurance company as provided they're willing to do so for a reasonable fee. If you cannot find your VIN it is likely to be on the dashboard of the driver, near the windshield wipers, or in the engine compartment.