True in Johnson City and the rest of the world, duplicate car keys are more expensive than regular car keys for various reasons. The most obvious reason is that they are more specialized and require more time and effort to create.
Additionally, there is a higher demand for duplicate car keys, as they are often needed in emergencies.
A regular car key is much cheaper to produce than a duplicate car key. This is because a regular car key only requires a simple manufacturing process, while a duplicate car key requires more specialized equipment and labor.
Replacement automobile key blanks can only be cut by using high-tech, costly equipment. To ensure continued profitability, it is imperative that all firms account for overhead costs when setting prices.
That equipment's price tag will be reflected in the final price tag for key replacement. In the case of luxury brands like Mercedes and BMW, specialized equipment designed specifically for these makes is essential.
Key cutting for these vehicles will be prohibitively expensive because only their owners would be expected to pay for the specialized machinery needed to do it.
As we've already mentioned, the actual automobile keys and remote fobs are small electrical devices. Therefore, the key contains circuitry and a battery to operate its features.
Thus, the cost of a new key alone can be considerable. And that's before we perform any cutting or programming to make it fit your specific car.
For instance, the cost of an original BMW key fob ranges from $170 for a standard ignition key to $1,000 for a radio remote control display key. Even though the chip in these keys is already tagged to your vehicle's VIN, you'll need to get it programmed before using them.
The cost of the component is high right from the bat. The cost of a new key fob for a 2015 Lexus ES350 is roughly the same. These keys are available in non-BMW or non-Lexus versions at a lower price.
There is a wide range of quality, but many are poor copies of the real thing. Considering the high risk of failure, most auto locksmiths in your area won't cut or program these keys for you.
In some cases, a key code is required for programming in addition to the cost of the actual key. This code can be purchased for $10 to $60.
Creating duplicate car keys requires more time and effort than regular car keys. This is because a duplicate car key must be specifically programmed to work with your vehicle, while a regular car key can be used in any vehicle.
It takes longer to program a duplicate car key, and costing more to produce.
Duplicate car keys are often needed in emergency situations. When you lose your keys or they are stolen, you need a replacement as soon as possible. This high demand for duplicate car keys drives up the cost of production.
When you lose your keys or are stolen, you need a replacement as soon as possible. This often requires a duplicate car key, which a professional locksmith can only create.
Since there is such high demand for these keys, they often cost more than regular car keys.
If you do not need a duplicate car key immediately, you can save money by waiting until there is less demand for them. You can also try to find a locksmith who offers discounts or specials on duplicate car keys.
Finally, you can ask your insurance company if they will cover the cost of a duplicate car key.
How much does a duplicate car key cost?
A duplicate car key typically costs between $50 and $100. The exact price depends on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the location of the locksmith.
Where can I get a duplicate car key made?
Duplicate car keys can be made by a professional locksmith or at a dealership. However, it is important to note that not all dealerships offer this service.
How long does it take to get a duplicate car key made?
It typically takes between 30 minutes and 1 hour to get a duplicate car key made. The exact time depends on the make and model of your vehicle.
Do I need to bring my car to the locksmith?
No, you do not need to bring your car to the locksmith. However, it is helpful if you have your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) so that the locksmith can program the key correctly.
What if I lost my only car key?
If you lost your only car key, you will need to get a new one made. This can be done by a professional locksmith or at a dealership. The cost of a new car key can range from $50 to $500.
How can I prevent losing my car keys?
There are several ways to prevent losing your car keys. These include keeping them safe, attaching them to your keychain, and ensuring you always know where they are.
If you need a duplicate car key, the best thing to do is to call a professional locksmith. They will have the equipment and experience necessary to create a perfect copy of your key.
Many locksmiths even offer discounts or specials on duplicate keys, so be sure to ask about those before you have your key made. You can also try to find a locksmith who offers discounts or specials on duplicate car keys.
Finally, you can ask your insurance company if they will cover the cost of a duplicate car key.
Bottom Line
Duplicate car keys are more expensive than regular car keys for various reasons. The most obvious reason is that they are more specialized and require more time and effort to create.
Additionally, there is a higher demand for duplicate car keys, as they are often needed in emergencies. If you need a duplicate car key, you can save money by waiting until there is less demand for them or by finding a locksmith who offers discounts.
You can also ask your insurance company if they will cover the cost of a duplicate car key.
If you need a duplicate car key in Johnson City, the best thing to do is to call Star Spangled Locksmithing. We are a professional locksmithing company that offers discounts on duplicate keys.
We also offer a wide range of other locksmithing services, so be sure to ask about those as well. We are always here to help, so don't hesitate to give us a call today!