Car keys are a key part of our everyday lives. They’re our ticket to mobility, so when they break or stop working it can be very frustrating.
While cheap car key replacement services may seem like a cost-effective solution at first, the consequences can have far-reaching implications for vehicle owners. You should instead opt for a traditional metal key, a transponder key, or even a key fob.
Low-Quality Keys
The initial allure of cheap car key replacements is easy to understand – they promise to solve your problem at a fraction of the cost. However, the problems that can arise from choosing a cut-rate option extend far beyond the initial savings. From compromised security to frequent malfunctions, a low-quality key can end up costing you more in the long run.
Low-quality keys are often made with inferior materials that are more likely to break or fail than a key that is professionally crafted by an expert locksmith. As a result, they are more likely to cause damage to the lock or ignition and can leave you stranded at the most inconvenient time.
In addition, poorly-made keys are also at greater risk of being duplicated without your consent, leaving you vulnerable to theft and break-ins. Using a low-quality key could also cause issues with your vehicle’s immobilizer, leading to hefty repair bills or even the need for replacement parts.
Another issue that can occur with cheap car key replacements is that they may not be correctly programmed to your vehicle, which can lead to a variety of issues. From failed start-ups to faulty locking mechanisms, these errors can be costly and time-consuming to fix. In some cases, a lack of proper programming can also leave you unable to unlock or start your car – a problem that could be dangerous or potentially fatal.
Professional car key replacements will use high-quality, reliable materials and advanced technology to create a key that is perfectly matched to your specific model of vehicle. They will also offer a range of additional services, such as BCM cloning and programming, to enhance your vehicle’s security and prevent theft.
In contrast, some cheap car key replacements may offer less-than-reliable products or provide subpar customer support. As a result, they can be difficult to reach and may not be able to provide you with the assistance that you need. In the long run, the peace of mind that comes with selecting a quality service will be well worth the extra investment.
Security Issues
Car key replacement is about much more than simply getting a new spare key. It’s about upgrading your vehicle’s security and peace of mind. That’s why it’s important to use a reputable and professional service provider like Affordable Car Keys. While they may be slightly more expensive than a low-cost alternative, they offer high-quality materials and skilled workmanship, as well as reliable customer support.
The problem with cheap replacement keys is that they’re often made from inferior materials. This downgrade in quality increases the risk of theft and break-ins, as well as reduces the lifespan of your key. In addition, many low-cost keys are prone to frequent malfunctions. These problems can be difficult to diagnose and fix, which will cost you time and money in the long run.
If you’re looking for a quick solution to your lost or broken car key, cheap options are alluring. However, you’ll quickly find that these services are a false economy. Cheaply-made replacement keys are not as durable, and are often more susceptible to issues like key fob cloning or RF interference. Moreover, they can damage your car’s onboard computer system, which will require costly repairs down the line.
Another issue with cheap replacement keys is that they often lack the necessary programming to sync with your vehicle’s onboard computer system. This can cause the key to fail or even damage your vehicle’s engine or transmission. A reputable and professional provider will provide the proper programming for your specific vehicle, which will ensure that the new key works correctly.
In the end, it’s worth the extra expense to invest in a quality car key replacement. Not only will this ensure that your key is functioning properly, but it will also help you avoid the stress of a car lockout or other security risks. Invest in a trusted and professional service to save yourself from the hassle, inconvenience, and costly repairs down the road. In addition, a reputable and professional service provider will offer you a warranty on their work, so that you can rest assured knowing your key is in good hands.
Scams
While the prospect of saving money by opting for a cheap car key replacement might seem like an appealing option at first, these cut-rate services often have hidden costs that can add up over time. In addition to compromised security and potentially dangerous functionality issues, low-quality keys can also cause expensive damage that might require costly repairs down the road.
While many newer vehicles have remote controls that allow drivers to lock or unlock their doors and trunk with a press of a button, older models still use traditional metal keys. In addition to providing a convenient alternative to using the key fob, these keys also offer added convenience for those who tend to forget where they’ve left their keys. However, these key options can be more difficult to find at an affordable price than their counterparts.
When these types of key are lost, it’s common to turn to online providers that promise to solve the problem for a fraction of the dealership’s cost. These services can pose several threats, from poor quality to insufficient support for any issues that might arise after the sale.
In some cases, the aftermarket electronic key that you’ll receive won’t even work with your vehicle. This is because these types of keys are made from inferior materials and may not have the proper electrical components to sync with your vehicle. In addition, attempting to program the key yourself can lead to serious safety and reliability concerns.
Another issue with cheap aftermarket electronic keys is that they can be used to clone the signal from your key fob. This can allow unauthorized individuals to gain access to your vehicle without you knowing it. While tech researchers have worked to prevent this, it’s not always possible to avoid this type of problem.
Lastly, cheap aftermarket electronic car keys can also lead to major problems with your vehicle’s onboard computer system. This can impact things such as the Body Control Module (BCM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM), resulting in expensive repair bills down the road. This is why it’s important to only use trusted and reputable service providers who can provide you with high-quality and reliable replacement services.
Lack of Customer Support
While it may seem tempting to save money on car key replacements, this approach can lead to serious problems. Low-cost services often compromise on the quality of materials and expertise, which can lead to costly repairs down the line. In addition, cheaply made keys can easily become duplicated or manipulated, putting your vehicle at risk of theft and shortening its lifespan.
Using a reputable, professional locksmith service is the best way to ensure that you get high-quality keys and superior customer support. Although these companies can be slightly more expensive, they offer peace of mind that the job is done correctly and will work with your vehicle for a long time. They also provide a variety of other services, such as programming and auto-start assistance.
Car keys have a habit of getting lost or misplaced at the most inconvenient times. This is why it’s important to have a spare set. Fortunately, there are many options for replacing your car key, including auto locksmiths, roadside assistance, and even the dealership. Depending on your budget, however, it’s worth paying the extra cost to use a reputable and professional service that uses high-quality materials and offers a full range of services.
The price of car key replacements can vary based on the type of key and its features. Traditional metal keys are typically the cheapest at $10 to $15, while laser-cut keys can be more expensive. Fob remotes, or key fobs, are the most expensive type of car key, as they incorporate advanced technology and can have additional functions. It is also important to note that all key fobs must be programmed, which can be an additional fee to the replacement costs.
In most cases, a dealer is the best option for car key replacement. This is because they can usually cut and program new keys based on the VIN of your vehicle. However, this method can be expensive and time-consuming, especially if they need to order the key from the manufacturer. In addition, most dealers have limited operating hours and are not always available when you need them.
