What Determines the Price of a New Car Key?

New technology is generally more expensive regardless of whether it's an iPhone or car key programming cost keys. What is the factor that determines the cost of a new key for a car?

The first thing to consider is the type of key you own. Keys made of older mechanicals that don't have transponders or chips are the cheapest keys to duplicate and replace.

Basic Key Fobs

When key fobs first appeared on the market, they were simple enough to duplicate at a corner locksmith. High-tech models are now capable of much more than unlocking the door. They double as convenience devices and can even serve as a deterrent to theft. All that technology comes with a price.

Older cars typically use a basic valet key that look like the keys you can buy at the hardware store. These are the cheapest keys to make and can be cut by a local mechanic or dealer of cars.

Modern vehicles are equipped with fobs that have a security chip. They are more difficult to make due to the fact that they have to be reprogrammed. This is a cost of a replacement car key. This is best done at the dealer, as it will take about a few minutes.

Consumer Reports found that some fobs are available through aftermarket stores or online auto-parts stores, typically for $200 less than the price you would pay at a dealer. Before you attempt to reprogramme the fob by yourself, make sure to check your owner's manual. Some fobs need the original key in the ignition, whereas others require a special battery.

Transponder Keys

If you have a vehicle which is newer, it may contain an electronic transponder within the vehicle. This chip communicates with the vehicle when the ignition is switched on. This makes it difficult for people to start your car however, it is not impossible. This kind of key is more expensive and requires a special machine for programming the chip.

The cheapest key replacement for your car is an old-fashioned mechanical key made of metal that does not contain any electronics. This typically costs less than $10, although keys that are rare for older vehicles can cost as much as $25.

This kind of key is produced by most car locksmiths, and is less expensive than visiting a dealership. If your key is equipped with remote or proximity switches it is possible to call a professional who has the right equipment for your specific model. A professional locksmith will be able to explain exactly what is required for your particular vehicle. They'll also be able offer an estimate prior the start of any work.

Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys

You don't want to be locked out of your car. It's always a good idea to have a spare car key. If you lose yours and do not have spares, you will be charged a significant amount for a brand new fob and programming service.

A locksmith who uses laser cut keys can offer you a lower cost of replacing car keys alternative. These keys are harder to duplicate than conventional car key replacement cost keys and require a more precise cutting method. These keys also come with transponder chip in, which must be programmed to the car.

High-security laser keys are different from conventional keys, which can be duplicated using standard key-cutting equipment. They are made of a slimmer base of metal and are cut using the milling tool that resembles a tiny bit of drill. This means they're more difficult to replicate and are an excellent way to keep your car secure from thieves. Some laser key machines are able to cut commercial or cost Of replacement car key residential keys that aren't made for automotive use by code. This means that you don't need to pay extra for the rekeying service.

Switchblade Keys

A switchblade key for car keys replacement cost keys folds down into a pendant like a knife. A button allows it to come out whenever you need it. This type of design is popular among drivers who want to reduce the size of their keys by putting them inside their pockets. A switchblade-style key can cost upwards of $200, which includes the fob and metal part.

Certain high-tech keys designed for automobiles are advertised as theft deterrents. They were developed by Jaguar in 1990, and later used in Ford products, these peculiarly designed shafts -- known as Tibbe keys -- are cylindrical, instead of flat. They are more secure than flat keys as they are more difficult to duplicate.

The replacement cost of replacement car key - they said, is higher than other types of keys due to rolling security codes. These keys are only able to be replaced at a dealership and could cost upwards of $400. There's a better option for replacing these expensive keys: a locksmith can perform the task for less than the dealer's charge. You can keep your key to the switchblade and avoid the hassle of trying an alternative from a dealership.

Smart Keys

If you own a more modern car equipped with smart key technology and you pay more to have a replacement key made than if your car was older. The type of key that you have advanced features, for instance, cost of replacement car key being able to open the car remotely with an app for smartphones or opening windows and sunroofs once the driver presses and holds the button.

Key fobs could also include backup features, according to the manufacturer. For example, if the battery inside the key fob gets depleted while in use, many systems will still lock the doors or turn off the ignition, according to Open Road Auto Group.

Locksmiths are the best option when it comes to making the new smart car keys. They have the equipment and technology to make keys on-site. Dealerships will make a key for you, but they'll charge you more and it will take longer since they need your VIN number and evidence of ownership. This information can be handed over to a locksmith. They can then make backups that work in the case of a lockout or a loss.