What Is Cost To Replace A Car Key And Why Is Everyone Speakin' About It? > 자유게시판

The Cost of Replacing Car Keys

Lost car keys aren't a problem - they can be replaced quickly and cost replacement car key-effectively. Costs vary based on the key type, technology, and where you receive your replacement.

The majority of hardware stores will duplicate classic keys for less than $10. Locksmiths for automotive can duplicate them if you provide proof of ownership. The more sophisticated and high-tech keys are more expensive to replace, however they can be obtained at a dealership if you need to.

Basic Key Fobs

The majority of cars manufactured after the 1990s include key fobs that can lock and unlock doors by pressing buttons. Most are standard, and relatively cheap to replace. However the most advanced fobs can cost of car key replacement as much as $1,000 to install by a dealer.

Dealerships are usually the only locations that have the expensive equipment needed to program the new car key cost key fob. This is particularly true for European automobiles. Audi or BMW key fobs, for instance, have a color touchscreen that lets drivers turn on or off the car's navigation system and access additional information. These features, as well as advanced security measures to detect if the key fob has been moved from its usual location which makes it more difficult to copy than fobs designed by Nissan or Ford.

Some hardware stores and auto parts retailers sell fobs to replace for lower than a dealership. If you're unable to find the right type of fob for your car, Cost of Replacing Car Keys some alternatives from the aftermarket work with most models and can be programmed with a code supplied by the manufacturer in the owner's manual. Check your warranty, auto insurance policy or roadside assistance coverage to see whether it covers the cost.

Transponder Keys

While standard keys and fobs are affordable to replace, the cost of a standard key with transponder chips will be significantly more expensive. Those chips, often referred to as mini-circuits, are what allow your car to recognize the key and then start.

This is because the chips in conjunction with a special code, disarms the vehicle's immobilizer and allows the engine to operate. This technology is found in most cars built after 2001. Although hardware stores are able to create traditional mechanical copies of your key, they are not able to duplicate the RF chips that have been molded into the top of your current key. You must therefore go to the dealership to purchase a new key fob, and then pay for a programming service that is even more expensive.

Many owners go to their dealership when they lose their keys. Many owners are unaware that a locksmith can make the exact same key at a lower price.

In addition to cloning the key, a qualified locksmith will also be able to change the transponder keys on your key. For this locksmith to do this, they'll need the equipment specifically designed for this purpose. It is used by dealerships, but it can be found in a majority of auto stores. Also, you will require an original copy of the stolen or lost car key replacement cost key, as well as the owner's guide. The process may take longer and cost more money if these items aren't in your possession.

High-Tech Keys

Certain vehicles require key fobs equipped with electronic signals which open doors and start engines. Replacing these can be a bit more complicated than making simple transponder keys and can cost of car key replacement you hundreds of dollars.

Locksmiths can also create these keys. You'll need the key fob along with evidence of ownership such as the registration or title for the vehicle. Locksmiths typically charge 20 percent less than dealers.

The most important factor in determining the price of a replacement key is whether there's an existing key to copy. Keys older than that don't have a chip, and can be copied at a local hardware store for about $10. A modern VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) key is equipped with a small resistor inside it that must match the car's computer. They is available for copying for $20 to $45.

However, there is one exception. The auto industry contributes to an organization for trade called the National Automated Vehicles Task Force that maintains key codes in a database and permits locksmiths and dealers to create copies of keys that were issued after 2000. VW, Mercedes, BMW and Porsche keys. The Center for Auto Safety is an advocacy group for consumers, headed by Ralph Nader. They have petitioned the Federal Trade Commission for an investigation into automakers for keeping secret key codes and charging expensive costs to replace them.

Key Replacement at the Dealership

It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys to cars was not a big issue. You could easily purchase an additional set of keys from your dealer if you lost keys. But today, cars come with ever-increasing technology and that means the process of replacing keys for your car is more complicated -- and more expensive.

For basic bladed or transponder keys, go to your local locksmith. The majority of locksmiths can cut a key for less than $10. If you own a smart key or switchblade, you must call roadside assistance and have your car towed. You'll need to bring proof of ownership papers with you, and you may have to wait a few days until the dealer has the key you need in stock.

Whether you've lost a simple switchblade or a more sophisticated, intelligent key, GEICO can help you get back on your way with our 24 hours a day Roadside Assistance. Just make sure you write down your vehicle identification number (VIN) that is typically located on the dashboard of the driver's side or is printed on your insurance card. The VIN is required to purchase and program the proper key for your car. It is also essential to keep an extra key in a secure location.