Automotive security technology has advanced tremendously in recent years. With this comes a rise in costs for manufacturing. Let’s take a look at why it’s so expensive to replace your car keys these days.

Types of Car Keys

First, it should be noted that not all car keys are expensive to replace. You can get a basic key duplicated or replaced for as low as $50 many places. The cost really depends on the type of car key and the brand. The more advanced the key (or car company), the higher the cost. Here is a basic overview of the different types of car keys you’ll find today, in order of how expensive they tend to be (including rough cost estimates):

• Mechanical keys: basic keys used in older car models, or to access the door or trunk only. These are the cheapest to duplicate and replace.
• Programmable remotes: not really keys; they’re buttons that you use to lock your car, unlock your car, sound the alarm and/or open the trunk. These are typically comparable to the price of mechanical keys.
• Transponder keys: the most common car keys you’ll see out there, these keys have electronic components in the head that communicate with the car to confirm that the key is valid. Due to added complexity, these are a tier up in cost from mechanical keys.
• Laser-cut transponder keys: transponder keys with a bit of extra security. Extra security equals extra complexity so these are the next tier up in terms of cost.
• Remote/key combos: aka switchblade key; a combination remote and key. Given the dual functions of these devices the cost rises a tier for duplication or replacement.
• Proximity FOBs: remote-like devices that can start the car or unlock the doors when you’re near the vehicle. While all of these options can range greatly in price for different makes and models proximity FOBs have the greatest variance across vehicles. Your best option here is to get a quote for your vehicle specifically.

Factors in Car Key Cost

As you can see above, the cost for auto keys goes up with its technology. Basic keys and fobs don’t feature advanced mechanics and can be duplicated with relatively simple machines or tools. Modern keys feature advanced transmitters, codes and programming, which leads to a higher cost because they take more time to duplicate and the actual hardware is more expensive. Finally, if you’re dealing with a luxury car brand, expect higher costs as a result.

Best Way to Replace Car Keys

A bigger cost than all of these options is if you lose all copies of your car keys. In that case, you might need to replace the locks, which can easily run you $1,000 or more. Your best bet is to ensure you have multiple copies of your keys and backups of them as well. You also should consider using a professional auto locksmith instead of going to a dealership, as you’ll be able to get an affordable product that’s still high-quality. (Just think twice before going to KeyMe or a similar key-cutting solution, which you can’t do anyway if you’re dealing with an advanced key.)

If you’re in need of new car keys, we’ll work with you to provide a solution that’s both useful and affordable. Contact us today for a consultation.

Automobile and house keys are no exception. Just because something is available online, though, doesn’t mean it’s a wise decision. From warranty issues to low-quality materials, there are several reasons to avoid purchasing home and auto keys online. 

Let’s go over a few of them.

1. Modern keys are complicated.

When you don’t get a key from a professional locksmith or dealer, you can’t guarantee it will work—especially if it’s a car key. Modern vehicles feature advanced electrical components, precise cutting and specific programming. The online retailer might not accept refunds, either, so if the key doesn’t work, you’re out of luck.

2. The quality of the keys isn’t guaranteed.

Dealers and locksmiths follow strict guidelines when it comes to materials and machinery. Online retailers don’t necessarily do the same thing. In fact, many online retailers use the cheapest materials and construction methods available to keep costs down. This results in a low-quality key.

3. You’re not really saving that much money.

The cost difference between an online key retailer and a professional locksmith isn’t significant, especially when you consider that the latter includes warrantied work, high-quality parts and labor, and satisfaction guarantees. 

4. You likely won’t get a warranty, either.

Locksmiths and dealers care about their reputation, which is why they value experience, licenses and partnerships with professional organizations. As such, they often warranty their work. Online key retailers don’t rely on industry-recognized skill sets as much, and often don’t include warranties.

5. There’s less peace of mind.

Overall, you’re going to have less confidence in a key that you purchase online. If you’re talking about security for something as important as a car or house, do you really want to trust an anonymous person online who could potentially keep a copy of your key on file? Do you realy want something that controls access to your house or car going through the mail? With a professional locksmith, you can have peace of mind about your key purchase.

If you’re in need of a new automobile or home key, trust a professional locksmith instead of an online store. Contact the A-1 Locksmith team today for a consultation.

One thing’s for sure, though: if you have a car manufactured within the last 10 years, it likely has a key fob. So what happens when your key fob has an issue? If you think you need a key fob replacement, here are some tips to do it the right way:

1. Don’t Go Straight to a Dealer

It might seem like the easiest option to go straight to your dealer for a key fob replacement, but you might want to think twice about this idea. For starters, it can be much more expensive to go to a dealer than your other options. Secondly, you might have to endure a lengthy wait. Then there’s always the possibility that it might just need a simple repair. While you might have to go to a dealer depending on your automobile’s manufacturer, other options will save you time and money.

2. See If It Can Be Reprogrammed or Repaired

Sometimes, a key fob is working correctly, but there’s a problem with the outer shell. Other times, the fob simply needs to be reprogrammed. Either option is cheaper than replacing the entire key fob, so make sure that you don’t need a replacement first.

3. Make Sure You Have at Least Two Fobs on Hand

Whether your key fob is lost or damaged, it’s a good idea to have a spare on hand. If you lose the only key fob you own, you’ll be in a tough situation. If you’re down to one, get a second fob made while you can.

4. Check Your Warranty

Before you pay for that key fob replacement, check your warranty to see if a damaged or lost key fob is eligible for replacement. This applies to extended warranties as well.

5. See if an Aftermarket Fob Is an Option

As hinted at in the first tip, some car manufacturers (like Audi) design their key fobs so that you can’t buy a new aftermarket key fob anywhere. This enhances the security, sure, but it is more expensive, inconvenient and limiting when it comes to options. Many European cars don’t have aftermarket fobs available.

6. Ask for an Auto Locksmith’s Opinion

Not sure whether your key fob can be replaced or repaired? Have questions about the best route to take? An auto locksmith can often guide you toward the correct decision. If you have limited car or security knowledge, this is extremely helpful.

7. Consider Other Security Upgrades

While you’re replacing your key fob, you might as well consider other security upgrades for your car. Need a spare key or fob? Want more security with a laser-cut key? Want a different type of lock? An auto locksmith can help with any of these requests.
If you’re in need of a key fob replacement (or any other automotive locksmith service), contact the team at A-1 Locksmith today.