The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
It can be frustrating to lose your car keys. It is important to remember that a replacement key for your car may not cost as much as you think.
The cost of a replacement car key is contingent on a variety of aspects, including the type of key you need as well as your location. Traditional keys are the cheapest while smart keys are the most expensive.
Cost of Parts
Depending on what type of key you need the price can differ. Standard keys without transponder chips are available for $50 to $110. The costs increase if you need an ignition key equipped with a transponder chip or a push-to start vehicle which requires an additional fob to start the car. These types of keys are costly to duplicate or replace, and are harder for car thieves to break into.
The cost can also be dependent on the year, make and model of vehicle you own. Newer vehicles may come with transponder chips that need to be paired with the car by a dealer or auto locksmith. That means that the spare key needs to be programmed to work with the car, which could cost as much as $200. Other factors that affect the cost of replacement keys are:
Auto locksmiths may be the cheapest replacement car keys however, they don't have the tools needed to deal with advanced key fobs or vehicles. If you don't have the right tools, it may be difficult to duplicate a simple key at an hardware shop. You can also seek roadside assistance to help find a replacement key however, they'll likely take your vehicle to a dealership and the process could take days to complete.
If you have an old key fob, it is ideal to purchase laser-cut all in-one keys and program them by yourself. This is becoming more difficult as a lot of key fobs come with security features that stop theft. Many companies have software that can be used to make keys, but they are typically only available to customers who have service contracts or as a service offered by the dealership. Most locksmiths will not allow cars to be opened if they've had their locks forced or altered. Insurance companies will be notified if you use wire hangers to unlock your car.
Cost of Labor
The cost of replacing a car key will be contingent on the kind you require. For less than $10, a traditional double-edged key can be duplicated at an area hardware store. To program and make more sophisticated keys, you will need special machines. This can add significantly to the cost of replacing the car key.
You'll also need a brand new key fob if your vehicle is equipped with one to unlock and start it. It can cost as high as $200, depending on the model and brand of your vehicle. Many modern vehicles have a transponder in the key that must be programmed and replaced in order to work correctly. This is an additional cost that is difficult to estimate until the key is actually lost and needs to be replaced.
A cutting machine with specialized capabilities is also required for the creation of the new key replacement. These can be expensive to purchase and are not easily accessible for people without an auto mechanic's shop. The key housing needs to be replaced, which may increase the cost of replacing a key.
Depending on the type of car key it is possible that you will need to purchase replacement parts. For instance, some key fobs have features like panic buttons and remote lock/unlock that can add to overall costs. Some key fobs also require batteries which can be costly to replace.
It is advisable to create an additional key prior to the time you lose the original. This will reduce the anxiety that comes with losing your keys and ensure that you always have a functional backup. If you do need an additional key, try to find a locksmith or a car dealer equipped to work with your car. It will cost less than buying a new key from a dealer and you can avoid the high fees that come when you choose this option.
If you own an ignition key that requires programming, you must keep a record of your immobilizer code, or the key number in case you want to be able to reprogramme it later. This information is available on your registration, title or other documents. A locksmith or auto dealer will charge a fee to provide this information.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars have key fobs that can lock, unlock, and even start the car by simply pressing the button. These devices can be very convenient, but expensive to replace if they become lost car keys replacement cost 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 replacement key key.
The year, make & model of the vehicle.
There are many kinds of keys for cars, starting with basic laser cut keys to switchblade keys. Keys of this kind are distinct and are difficult to duplicate. This is particularly relevant for modern car keys with transponders that need to be programmed to the vehicle. This can be done by a professional, but will cost more than a regular key copy.
The type of vehicle can also affect the cost. Keys for older cars and simple models are more affordable to replace, however the most modern cars generally require a specific device to start the car, which could cost up to $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. If you lose your keys in a foreign location, you could be charged a higher fee for towing your car to the nearest dealership to get a new key programmed. You can cut down on this expense by keeping an extra key in a secure location in your home, like at work or in the office.
It is also important to remember that, most of the time keys for new cars is programmed by the dealer. This is because most main dealers don't offer mobile key programming services and can only do this in their workshop. This could be a huge cost in the event of losing your car's only set of keys, therefore it is better to take preventative measures and keep a spare set with you always.
Cost of Key Replacement
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle depending on the make and model of your car, you may have to purchase replacement keys from an auto dealer or locksmith. Check your vehicle's key to determine if it is equipped with a smart key or transponder chip. These technologies could increase the cost of replacing your car's key.
A traditional car without a keyfob is cheap and can be duplicated in the local hardware store for less than $25. It's a good idea have a backup in case you lose the original.
More recent cars have keys that emit an electronic signal to unlock and start the vehicle. This could be a big issue to replace in the event of it being lost, as you'll have to contact the manufacturer of your car to request a replacement key and have it paired with your vehicle. The cost of a standard key fob replacement can vary from $50 to $150.
In certain cases you can get a key fob replaced at the dealership so long as you prove ownership with proof of registration or title. However, the dealer could charge an additional cost to cover the cost of travel and time spent on remote locations. You can also buy an aftermarket car key battery replacement Near me key online or directly from the manufacturer. This option may be cheaper, but it is also more risky due to the fact that the quality of the keys can't 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 unlock the door. It could also damage the lock, which could result in additional charges for a complete repair or replacement. If you're able to locate your car keys, it could be worth the extra money to have them duplicated by an auto expert instead of at the dealership. This could help you save money, particularly if you have an extra key at home.