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 may not be as costly as you think.
The cost of a replacement for a car key varies based on several factors, including the type of key you require and your location. Keys that are traditional are the cheapest, while smart keys are the most costly.
Cost of Parts
The cost will differ based on the type of key that you need. Standard keys without transponder chips are priced from $50 to $110. The cost increases if you need an ignition key with a transponder chip, or a push-to-start vehicle that requires an extra fob to turn on the car. The keys are costly to duplicate and replace, and they are also more difficult to steal.
The year the make and model of your car will also affect the cost. The transponder chip in newer vehicles will need to be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that keys that are replaced will need to be programmed to work with the car which can cost up to $200. The cost of replacing keys is also affected by:
Auto locksmiths are the cheapest alternative, however they do not have all the equipment required to deal with more advanced key fobs and vehicles. You can attempt to duplicate a basic key by yourself in a hardware shop, however, the process takes a long time and can be difficult in the absence of the right tools. You can also contact roadside assistance for a new key. However, replacement key fobs for cars 'll tow your vehicle to a dealer and the process may take several days.
If you have an older key fob, it is recommended to purchase laser-cut all-in-one keys and program them yourself. But this is becoming more difficult because many key fobs have security features to prevent theft. Many companies have software programs that can be used to create keys, but they are typically only available to customers with service contracts or as a service offered by the dealership. In attempting to circumvent these restrictions can 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 to open the vehicle and then signal red flags to insurance companies.
Cost of Labor
The cost of replacing a car key will depend on the kind you require. A standard double-edged car keys can usually be duplicated at a local hardware store for less than $10. However, more advanced keys require special equipment to make and program. This can significantly increase the total cost of replacing keys for cars.
You'll also need a new key fob if your vehicle has one to unlock it and start it. This can run up to $200, based on the model and make of your vehicle. In addition, many modern vehicles also include a transponder in the key that needs to be replaced and programmed to work properly. This is an additional cost that is hard to estimate until the key is lost and must be replaced.
To create a replacement key, a specialized cutting machine is required. These are expensive and are not accessible to those who do not have an auto mechanic shop. Furthermore, the key's housing is also required to be replaced and this can increase the overall costs of making an replacement car key.
Depending on the kind of car key you have, you may need to buy other replacement parts too. Some key fobs, for instance, include features like panic or remote lock/unlock buttons that can increase the total cost. Certain key fobs also require batteries that can be costly to replace.
It is best to make a spare car key prior to the time you lose the original one. This will ease the anxiety that comes with losing keys and ensure that you always have a working backup. If you need a new key, you should look for a locksmith or car dealer that has the proper equipment to work with your car. This will be cheaper than buying a new key from the dealership and should allow you to avoid some of the high fees associated with those alternatives.
If you have keys that require programming, it's important to keep a record of the immobilizer code or the key number in case you want to be able to reprogramme it later. This information can be found on your registration, title or other documents. A locksmith or auto dealer may charge a fee for providing this information.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars are equipped with key fobs that allow you to lock or unlock and even start the car just by pressing a button. These devices are extremely convenient, but they can also be costly to replace if they are damaged or lost. Fortunately, locksmiths can save you money by replacing these types of keys, without the expense of replacing the device itself. However, there are several things to consider when determining the cost of a replacement car key.
The Year, Make and Model of the vehicle
There are numerous kinds of car keys ranging from laser-cut keys to switchblades. These keys are difficult to duplicate since they are distinct. This is especially true for modern car key transponders that need to be programmed into the vehicle. This can be done by a professional, but will cost more than a standard key copy.
The model of the vehicle will affect the price. Keys for older cars and simple models are more affordable to replace, but the most advanced cars will typically require a separate device to start the car, and can cost up to $500 to replace.
The type of key and the location of the car could also impact the cost of a new key. It could cost you more to tow your vehicle to the nearest dealer if you lose your keys in an area unknown. This cost can be prevented by keeping an extra key in a safe place like at home or work.
It is important to note that keys that are new will probably need to be programmed by the dealer. This is because most main dealers do not have mobile key programming services and can only do this in their workshop. It can be costly when you lose your sole set of keys. Therefore, it's best to keep a spare set on you.
Cost of Key Replacement
You might need to purchase new keys from an automotive locksmith or dealer, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Examine the key in your vehicle to determine if it is equipped with an electronic transponder or smart key chip. These technologies could increase the cost of your vehicle key replacement.
A classic car that does not have a keyfob can be cheap and can be duplicated in a local hardware shop for less than $25. It's always a good idea to have a backup just in the event that you lose your original.
Modern cars have keys that emit an electronic signal to unlock and start the car. It can be a challenge to replace in the event of a loss, as you'll need to contact the manufacturer to get the new one and connect it with your car. The cost of the replacement key fob can range between $50 and $125.
In some cases you may be able to have your key fob replaced at the dealership so long as you can prove ownership by proving registration or title. However, the dealer could still charge an extra fee for the service to cover travel costs and time spent on an unreachable location. You can also purchase an aftermarket car key online or directly from the manufacturer. This is a cheaper option however it's more risky because the quality of the keys cannot be assured.
Don't attempt to hack into your car using wire hangers or force. This could set off alarms and make it more difficult for a locksmith to open the door. This could also cause damage to the lock, which could lead to higher costs for repairs or replacements. If you are able to locate your car keys, it may be worth the extra expense to have them duplicated by an auto specialist instead of the dealership. This can save you lots of cash, particularly if have a spare key at home.