If you've lost your electronic car key or if it has developed a fault, then you may have called out a mobile auto locksmith. The locksmith can fix or replace your key and get you on the road again quickly. However, your locksmith tells you that you have a couple of choices here. You can buy a branded replacement key or an aftermarket one.
Aftermarket keys are generic products that are produced by other companies rather than the car's manufacturer. They do the same job as a manufacturer key, but they may not look exactly the same. What are the benefits of switching to an aftermarket key?
What Are the Advantages of Aftermarket Car Keys?
Replacing an electronic car key may be easier than you thought now you have a locksmith on hand to help you, but this isn't necessarily going to be cheap. This isn't about the locksmith's charges but the cost of the key itself. Manufacturer keys tend to be more expensive than aftermarket products. You pay a premium for the brand. So, if you switch to using an aftermarket key, you're likely to have a lower bill in the end.
You may also find that an aftermarket key gives you a quicker solution. While locksmiths carry a variety of branded keys for car owners with key problems, there is always the chance that your locksmith might not have your exact key in stock. This is likely to be more of a problem if you have a car that is a little out of the ordinary. For example, you may need to order a branded key for some foreign import or luxury cars. You won't need to wait for an aftermarket key. Even if you then go on to order a branded replacement, you can use the aftermarket key until the new one arrives.
Should You Go for an Aftermarket Key?
Locksmiths typically stock aftermarket keys that they trust to do their job. So, you don't need to worry about whether the key will work or not. It's not in your locksmith's interests to sell you a dud here. It is, however, worth checking that the aftermarket key has the same features as your original. For example, some aftermarket keys have reprogramming limitations. If you needed to reprogram the key in the future, this might not be possible with some keys.
Generally, if you're not bothered about having a branded electronic car key, then an aftermarket option is a goer. For more advice about electronic push button car keys, talk to your locksmith.
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