The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
Losing your car keys can be a stressful experience. But it's important to remember that a replacement key may not be as expensive as you think.
The cost of a new car key is determined by a variety of factors, including the type of replacement key you need and the location you live in. Keys that are traditional are the cheapest while smart keys are the most expensive.
Cost of parts
Depending on what type of key you need the price will depend on the type of key you require, the cost can vary. Keys that are standard and do not have transponder chips are priced between $50 and $110. The cost increases for those who require an ignition key with a transponder chip, or a push-to-start vehicle which requires an additional fob to turn on the car. Keys with these types of features are costly to duplicate or replace, and are more difficult for thieves to steal.
The cost will also be affected by the year, make and model of car you own. The transponder chip on newer cars will need to be paired with an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that keys that are replaced will need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle and could cost as much as $200. The cost of replacing keys can also be affected by:
Auto locksmiths are the least expensive option, but they don't have all the equipment needed to handle more sophisticated key fobs and vehicles. You can try to copy the basic key yourself at a hardware store, however, the process takes a long time and may be a challenge when you don't have the right tools. You can also use roadside assistance to assist you obtain a new key however, they'll likely take your vehicle to a dealer and the process could take several days to complete.
If you have an old key fob, it is recommended to purchase laser-cut all-in-one keys and program them yourself. This is becoming increasingly difficult as a lot of key fobs are equipped with security features that prevent theft. Many companies offer software to design keys. However, these are only an option for customers who have service contracts. In attempting to circumvent these restrictions can lead to problems, as most locksmiths will not allow cars to be opened if they were forced or tampered with. If auto car key replacement to use wire hangers or another method of opening the car, that will also signal red flags to insurance companies.
Cost of Labor
The cost of replacing a car key will depend on the type of key you require. For less than $10, a standard double-edged key can be duplicated in an area hardware store. However, more sophisticated keys require special machines to design and manufacture. This could significantly increase the cost of replacing your car key.
If your vehicle has an ignition key to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll need to install a new fob in addition. It could cost up to $200, based on the make and model of your vehicle. A lot of newer cars have transponders inside the key that must be programmed and re-installed in order to function correctly. This is a cost that is hard to estimate prior to the moment when the key is lost and must be replaced.
To make a new replacement key, a special cutting machine is required. They can be costly to purchase and not easily accessible for people without a mechanic's shop. Furthermore, the key's housing must be replaced as well and this can increase the overall costs of making a replacement car key.
Depending on the type of car key it is possible that you will need to purchase other replacement parts. For instance, some key fobs have features such as remote lock/unlock and panic buttons which can increase the overall costs. Certain key fobs also need a battery which can be costly to replace.
It is recommended to create a spare car key before you lose your original key. This will help you avoid the stress of losing your keys, and also ensure that you have a backup. If you need a new car key, you should find a dealer or locksmith that is equipped to repair your vehicle. This will be less expensive than purchasing a new one from a dealership and will let you save some of the costly costs associated with these options.
If you have a key that requires programming, it's important 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 normally located on your title or registration and can be provided to a locksmith or auto dealer for a fee.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars are equipped with key fobs that are able to lock, unlock, and even start the car just by pressing a button. These devices are extremely convenient, however they can be costly to replace if damaged or lost. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace these keys without having to replace the device. There are a few aspects to take into consideration when it comes to determining the cost of replacing a car key.
The year, make and model of the vehicle.
There are many kinds of car keys, starting with basic laser cut keys to switchesblade keys. Keys of this kind are distinct and are difficult to duplicate. This is particularly true for modern car key transponders, which must be programmed into the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, but will cost more than a regular key copy.
The model of the vehicle will also affect the cost. Older cars and basic keys are less expensive to replace, however the most modern cars generally require a specific device to start the car, and can cost as much as $500 to replace.
The type of key and the location of the vehicle may also influence the cost of a replacement key. If you lose your keys in a foreign area, you may be charged more to tow your car to the nearest dealership to have a new key programmed. This expense can be prevented by keeping a spare key in a safe place like at home or at work.
It is also important to know that most times keys for new cars must be programmed at the dealer. This is due to the fact that most major dealers don't offer mobile key programming facilities and are able to do this in their workshop. It could be costly in the event that you lose your primary set of keys. Therefore, it's best to keep a spare set of keys with you.
Cost of Replacement Keys
Depending on the make and model of your car, you may need to purchase replacement keys from an auto locksmith. Before you do this, make sure to check the type of your car's keys and if it comes with a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can increase the cost of replacing your car's keys.
A traditional car key without a key fob is relatively cheap and can typically be duplicated at a local hardware store for under $25. It is recommended to have an extra in case you lose the original.
Modern cars have keys that emit an electronic signal to unlock and start the car. This can be a huge hassle to replace in the event that it is lost, as you will need to contact the car manufacturer for a new key and pair it with your vehicle. The cost of the replacement key fob can range from $50 to $125.
In some instances, you may be able to change a keyfob in the dealership if you have evidence of ownership, like an official registration or a title. However, the dealer may still charge an extra fee for the service to cover travel costs and time spent at an unreachable location. You can also purchase an aftermarket car key online or directly from the manufacturer. This is a cheaper option, but it is also more risky because the quality of the keys can't be assured.
Don't attempt to break into your car using wire hangers or force. This could trigger alarms and make it more difficult for a locksmith to unlock the door. This could also result in damage to the lock, which could cause more expensive repairs or replacements. If you are able to locate the car keys, it might be worth the extra cost to have them cloned by an auto technician rather than at the dealership. This could save you a lot of money, especially if you have an extra key in your home.