The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
It can be very frustrating to lose your car keys. It's important to remember that a replacement car key might not cost more than you think.
The cost of a replacement car key varies based on several factors, including the kind of key you need as well as your location. Keys that are traditional are the cheapest and the smart keys are more expensive.
Cost of Parts
The cost will vary depending on the type of key that you require. Standard keys that have no transponder chips are available for copying between $50 and $110. The costs increase when you require keys with a transponder chip, or a push-to start vehicle that requires a second fob to start the car. Keys with these types of features can be costly to duplicate or replace and are more difficult for thieves to gain access to.
The cost can also be affected by the year, model and year of car you own. The transponder chip on newer vehicles will need to be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that the replacement key needs to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle and could cost up to $200. The cost of replacing keys can also be affected by:
Auto locksmiths are often the cheapest however, they don't have the tools needed to deal with advanced key fobs or vehicles. You can attempt to duplicate a basic key at a hardware store however, the process takes a long time and difficult if you do not have the proper tools. You can also call roadside assistance to request a replacement key. However, they'll take your vehicle to a dealer, and the process can take a few days.
If you have an older key fob, it's best to buy laser-cut all-in-one keys and program them by yourself. This is becoming increasingly difficult since many key fobs are equipped with security features that can prevent theft. Numerous companies offer software to create keys. However, they are only an option for customers who have service contracts. Trying to bypass these restrictions could cause problems, since locksmiths generally do not open vehicles that are forced or altered with. If you are able to use wire hangers or some other method of opening the car, that will also set off red flags for insurance companies.
Cost of Labor
The kind of car key you require will determine the amount it will cost to replace. For less than $10, a traditional double-edged key can be duplicated in an area hardware store. To auto key replacement and create more sophisticated keys, you'll need special machines. This can significantly increase the total cost of replacing a car key.
You'll also need a brand new key fob in case your vehicle has one to start and unlock it. It can cost as high as $200, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. In addition, many modern vehicles also use a transponder chip inside the key that needs to be replaced and programmed in order to function correctly. This is an additional cost that can be difficult to estimate until the key is actually lost and requires to be replaced.
A specialized cutting machine is also required for the creation of the new key replacement. They are costly and are not accessible to those who do not have a mechanic shop. The key housing must also be replaced, which can increase the cost of a replacement key.
Depending on the type of car key, you may also need to purchase replacement parts. For instance, some key fobs include features such as remote lock/unlock and panic buttons that can add to the overall costs. Furthermore, certain key fobs require batteries that can be costly to replace.
It is advisable to make an extra car key before you lose your original key. This will ease the anxiety of losing your keys and ensure that you have another backup. If you need a new car key, you should find an authorized locksmith or dealer who is equipped to work on your car. This will be less expensive than getting a new one from a dealer and could enable you to avoid some of the high costs associated with these options.
If you have an ignition key that requires programming, it's essential to keep a record of your immobilizer code or the key number in case you need to get it reprogrammed in the future. This information is typically located on your title or registration and can be provided to a locksmith or auto dealer for a fee.
Cost of Equipment
Modern automobiles come with key fobs that can lock, unlock and start the vehicle by pressing one button. These devices can be extremely useful, but they are expensive to replace if they become lost or damaged. Locksmiths can save you money by replacing keys without needing to replace the device. There are a variety of aspects to take into consideration when determining the price of the replacement of a car key.
The year, make and model of the vehicle.
There are many kinds of keys for cars, from basic, laser cut keys to switchblade keys. They are extremely difficult to duplicate due to being unique. This is particularly true for modern car key transponders that need to be programmed into the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, however it will cost more than a standard key copy.
Another factor that can impact the cost of a replacement car key is the model of car. Basic keys and older cars are more affordable to replace, but the most sophisticated cars will typically require a special device to start the car, which could cost as much as $500 to replace.
The type of key as well as the location of the car may also affect the cost of a new car key. You may be charged more to tow your vehicle to the nearest dealership in case you lose your keys somewhere unknown. You can avoid this expense by keeping a spare key in a safe location like your home or the office.
It is crucial to know that the new key will probably require programming by the dealer. This is due to the fact that most major dealers don't have mobile key programming facilities and are able to do this in their workshop. It could be costly when you lose your sole set of keys. Therefore, it's best to keep a spare set of keys with you.
Cost of replacing keys
You may need to buy replacement keys from an auto locksmith or a dealer depending on the model and make of your vehicle. Check the key of your car to determine if it's a transponder or smart key chip. These technologies can increase the cost of your car key replacement.
A typical car without a keyfob is inexpensive and can be duplicated at an area hardware store for less than $25. It's best to have a spare in case you lose your original.
Most recent cars come with a key fob which emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your vehicle. This can be a huge issue to replace in the event of it being lost, since you'll have to contact the car manufacturer for a new key and have it paired with your vehicle. The cost of a replacement key fob ranges between $50 and $125.
In certain cases you can get a key fob replaced at the dealership so long as you show proof of ownership using registration or title. However, the dealer may charge an additional fee for the service to cover the cost of travel and time spent at an unreachable location. You can also purchase an aftermarket car key online or directly from the manufacturer. This option is cheaper but it could be more risky since the quality of these keys can't be assured.
It is not advisable to break into your own car with the use of wire hangers or force, because this could raise red flags and make it difficult for a professional locksmith to open the door of your car. This could also cause damage to the lock, which could result in cost-intensive repairs or replacements. If you are able to locate the car keys, it might be worth it to have them cloned by an auto technician rather than at the dealership. This could save you money, particularly if there is an extra car key in your home.