The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
It can be a hassle to lose your car keys. It's important to realize that a replacement key might not cost as much as you think.
The cost of a replacement car key is contingent on a variety of factors, including the kind of key you need as well as the location of your home. The traditional keys are the cheapest while the smart keys are more expensive.
Cost of Parts
Depending on what type of key you require, the cost can depend on the type of key you require, the cost can vary. Keys that are standard and do not have transponder chips can be copied for anywhere between $50 to $110. The price increases when you require a key fob with a transponder chip, or a push-to start vehicle that requires a second fob to turn on the car. auto car key replacement with these types of features can be expensive to duplicate or replace and are harder for car thieves to steal.
The year and make of your car will also impact the cost. The transponder chip on newer vehicles will need to be programmed by an auto locksmith or dealer. That means that the spare key needs to be programmed to work with the car, which could cost as much as $200. The cost of replacement keys is also affected by:
Auto locksmiths are the most affordable alternative, however they don't have the equipment needed to handle more sophisticated key fobs or vehicles. If you don't have the appropriate tools, it can be difficult to copy the basic key from the hardware store. You can also seek roadside assistance to assist you get a replacement key however, they'll likely tow your car to a dealership, and the process could take a few days to complete.
If you own a newer key fob, the best way to reduce your costs is to buy all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. But automotive key replacement is becoming more difficult as the majority of key fobs come with security features to prevent theft. Many companies have software programs that can be used to create keys, however these are typically only available to customers who have service contracts or as a courtesy from the dealership. Most locksmiths will not allow cars to be opened if they've been forced to open or tampered. If you are able to employ wire hangers or a different method to open the car it will raise red flags for insurance providers.
Cost of Labor
The cost of replacing the car key will vary on the type you need. A standard double-edged car keys can usually be duplicated at your local hardware store for less than $10. To program and make more advanced keys, you'll require special equipment. This can significantly increase the total cost of replacing a car key.
If your car uses a key fob to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll need install a new fob as well. The cost could be anywhere from to $200, depending on your vehicle's model and make. In addition, many modern vehicles also include a transponder in the key that needs to be replaced and programmed in order to function properly. This is a cost that is hard to estimate until the key is actually lost and needs to be replaced.
To make a new replacement key, a specially-designed cutting machine is required. These can be expensive to purchase and aren't accessible to people who don't have access to a mechanic's workshop. In addition, the housing of the key is also required to be replaced which could add to the overall costs of making an replacement car key.
Depending on the type of car key, you may need to buy other replacement parts too. For instance, some key fobs come with features such as panic buttons and remote lock/unlock which can increase the overall cost. Additionally, some key fobs require batteries which can be expensive to replace.
It is recommended to create an extra car key before you lose the one you have. This will reduce the stress of losing your keys and will ensure that you always have a functioning backup. If you need a new car key, find an authorized locksmith or dealer who has the right equipment to work on your vehicle. It will cost less than buying a new key from a dealer and you can avoid the high fees that come with this option.
If you own a key that requires programming, you must have a record of the immobilizer code, or the key number in case you need to have it reprogrammed later on. This information is normally located on your registration or title and is available to a locksmith or auto dealer for a small fee.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars have key fobs that lock, unlock, and start the vehicle by simply pressing one button. These devices can be extremely useful, but they are expensive to replace when they are lost or damaged. Fortunately, locksmiths can save you money by replacing these kinds of keys, without the expense of replacing the device itself. There are a few things to consider when the cost of replacing a car key.
The year, make & model of the vehicle.
There are a variety of keys for cars, ranging from simple laser cut keys to switchesblade keys. These keys are very difficult to duplicate since they are unique. This is particularly relevant for modern car key transponders that must be programmed into the vehicle. This can be done by a professional, however it will cost more than a regular key copy.
The type of vehicle can also affect the cost. Older cars with basic keys cost less to replace. However the most modern cars require a special device that can cost up $500 to replace.
The type of key and location of the vehicle could affect the cost of a replacement car key. It could cost you more to tow your car to the nearest dealership if you lose your keys in an area in a foreign location. You can save this cost by keeping keys in a secure location, such as your home or office.
It is important to remember that keys that are new will likely to require programming by the dealer. This is due to the fact that most major dealers don't have mobile key programming services and can only do this in their workshop. This could be a huge expense in the case of losing your car's only set of keys, which is why it's recommended to be proactive and keep a spare with you at all times.
Cost of Replacement Keys
You may need to buy replacement keys from an auto locksmith or dealer, depending on the make and models of your vehicle. Before doing so, verify the type of key in your vehicle and whether it has a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can increase the price of your car key replacement.
A traditional car without a keyfob is cheap and can be duplicated at the local hardware store for less than $25. It's always a good idea to keep a backup in the event that you lose your original.
The latest cars come with key fobs that emit an electronic signal to unlock and start the vehicle. This can be a huge issue to replace in the event of it being lost, since you'll have to contact your manufacturer of your car to request a replacement key and then pair it with your vehicle. The cost of an alternative key fob ranges from $50 to $125.
In some cases, you can have a key fob replaced at the dealership so long as you prove ownership by proving registration or title. Dealers may charge an additional fee to cover travel costs and time spent at an unreachable location. You can also purchase an aftermarket key on the internet or even directly from the vehicle manufacturer. This is a cheaper option but it's more risky as the quality of the keys can't be guaranteed.
Never try to get into your car with wire hangers or force. This could trigger alarms and make it more difficult for locksmiths to open the door. This could also result in damage to the lock, which will lead to cost-intensive repairs or replacements. If you're able to locate your car keys, it may be worth the extra cost to have them duplicated by an auto repair shop instead of at the dealership. This could help you save cash, particularly if have an extra key at home.