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How to Save Money on Replacement Car Keys Getting replacement car keys can be a hassle. There are many options, such as going to the dealership or hiring locksmiths to make it for you. Basic keys, which are not fobs, shouldn't cost more than $20. Fobs must be reprogrammed. This requires specialized equipment which are typically only available at dealerships. Cost The cost of replacing car keys depends on several factors, such as the kind of key you require and the model and make of your vehicle. More secure keys and fobs are usually more expensive however, the additional security features can help deter theft. Car owners and lessees can use the following methods to save money on replacing keys that have been lost: Make sure to check your insurance policy first to determine if it covers the cost of replacements keys. If you don't have insurance, you may be able to buy a key from the manufacturer or an aftermarket version. This is a good option for older or more traditional vehicles, as they are easier to duplicate and are less expensive than modern keys. Another option is to purchase a spare car key before losing the original. If you have the money this is a smart idea. You will not have to pay an locksmith to replace your key. In addition the spare key could be used to lock and unlock the car in case you lose the original key. Transponder keys are required for vehicles that are more advanced or recent. They contain an inductor which sends an email to the car to allow it to recognize the key as legitimate and allow you to enter the vehicle or start the motor. This procedure is more complicated than cutting a key, and requires the expertise of a specialist. This can be extremely expensive, and the total cost will often exceed $500. If you have an older or more traditional key, you might find a copy for a reasonable price at a local hardware store or locksmith. However, the more sophisticated and secure transponder keys require a locksmith or auto dealer to connect them to your vehicle. This can cost more than $100 and could be even higher for push-to-start vehicles equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. The most efficient way to save money on this is to go to the dealer that carries your brand of vehicle for instance, if it's a Honda, go to the Honda dealership, etc. Security It wasn't long ago that losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could get a replacement at any hardware store, locksmith, or even your dealership. As automobiles have advanced in technology as well as the necessity of keeping them safe from thieves. It's important to keep the spare car keys in a secure location. It is crucial to determine the type of key that you lost, if you did. This will impact how much it will cost to replace them, as keys that are more secure tend to be more expensive. For instance, transponder keys are more expensive than basic keys, because they contain a chip in the head that is connected to your vehicle. This ensures that your vehicle can only be re-started by an authentic key. You'll need to pay extra for the reprogramming of your vehicle to accept the new key. This is usually handled by a professional, but it's possible to do at your home. There are a variety of ways to program a new key such as using an application or downloading the data directly from your car's computer. However this method is less reliable and requires a great deal of technical expertise. Another method to cut down on the cost of replacing keys for your car is installing an entry system that is keyless. This makes it difficult for thieves to take your car by entering the code or fingerprints to unlock it. This will also stop your car from starting if a person attempts to use the wrong code or fingerprint. To avoid losing your car keys in the future, make a spare key and give it to a family member to be kept safe. You should consider purchasing a steering-wheel lock to stop thieves from taking away with your car. While these locks aren't safe, they will make your car significantly more secure from theft and could cause thieves to make the decision to move on to a different vehicle. You can also check that the security features of your car are working correctly by changing the key fob. Accessibility Depending on the type of key you have There are various options for car key replacement. The most affordable option is to contact an auto locksmith. This can be done by finding one via the internet or a mobile phone app. It is also possible to purchase an additional key from your dealer however, this is more expensive. cost for car key replacement may also be able to avail a key replacement service from your insurance company, however, this will depend on the policy's terms and the type of vehicle you have. Not too long ago the loss of your car keys was not an issue. A replacement key could be found at a local hardware store or locksmith. The technology used in modern cars is much more advanced, so a replacement key may be more difficult and expensive. The standard keys, which are the traditional locks and keys used in older vehicles, are relatively affordable to replace. They usually don't have transponders, which are necessary to start the vehicle. A transponder key is a little bit more expensive and is made up of an aluminum head with a unique pattern, which can be used to stop unauthorized ignition. The next step is to program your car's new key. You can do this by studying the instructions in your owner's manual or using a mobile phone app. You can also engage an expert, but this will cost you more. Once the key has been programmed it can be used to unlock and start the vehicle. It is always a good idea to keep a spare car key but it is also important to know what options you have if you lose them. You can contact a locksmith, roadside assistance or your insurance company to aid in the procedure. If you have a key that is smart, you will still require contacting your dealership and wait several days for the replacement key. Time is a factor. Not long ago, losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could find an replacement from the hardware store or your local locksmith. As automobiles have evolved in terms of technology and costly to replace them has also risen. It can cost several hundred bucks depending on the model and make of your car. This makes it essential to keep a spare car key. If you're at risk of losing your keys, it's best to keep a spare in the trunk or on your person. You can also have a functioning car in the event you lose your keys. Using a bulky keychain or a long lanyard will also help you avoid misplacing your keys. Replace your key if you see signs of wear. A worn key can break or bend which could result in a locked that is jammed or a broken key. It is also possible to find the key turning more than usual. This indicates that the key as well as the lock cylinder are wearing out. Another indication that it's time to change your car keys is if they aren't working anymore. This can be a sign that someone has copied your keys or the key fob you have been compromised by criminals. Replace your keys if they are starting show signs of corrosion. Metal keys are more likely to wear out or fade as time passes by with regular use. Based on the make and model of your car You can have your car keys made by a locksmith or at an auto dealer. Dealerships have all the information they require about your vehicle and can give your car keys quickly. However, professional locksmiths can usually work on all makes and models. Note down the VIN of your car prior to you call a key replacement service. This number will be required to identify your vehicle and the key that matches. You can find your VIN on the dashboard, on the engine block, or in the trunk.