The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
It can be very frustrating to lose your car keys. It's important to keep in mind that a replacement car key might not cost as much as you think.
The cost of a replacement car key depends on several aspects, including the type of key you need and your location. Keys made of traditional design are the cheapest, while smart keys are the most expensive.
Cost of parts
Based on the type of key you require the price can vary. Standard keys that have no transponder chips can be copied for anywhere between $50 to $110. If you require a keyfob with a chip or a push-to-start vehicle that requires a second fob the cost will rise. These keys are expensive to duplicate and replace, and harder to steal.
The cost can also be affected by the year, make and model of car you have. Newer cars may have transponder chips that need to be connected to the car by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that the replacement key needs to be programmed to work with the vehicle and could cost up to $200. The cost of replacing keys can also be affected by:
Auto locksmiths are the least expensive alternative, but they don't have the equipment needed to handle more advanced key fobs and vehicles. If you don't have the appropriate tools, it may be difficult to copy a simple key at an hardware shop. You can also contact roadside assistance for a replacement key. However, they'll take your vehicle to a dealer, and the process could take a few days.
If you have an old key fob, it's ideal to purchase laser-cut all in-one keys and program them by yourself. However, this 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 make keys, but these are typically only available to customers who have service contracts or as a service offered by the dealership. Most locksmiths won't open cars that have locked locks that have been forced or tampered. If you are able 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 kind you require. For less than $10, a standard double-edged key can be duplicated in an area hardware store. However, more sophisticated keys require specialized equipment to design and manufacture. This can significantly increase the cost of replacing your car keys.
If your car has an ignition key to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll need to install a new key fob in addition. The cost could range from $100 to $200 depending on your vehicle's make and model. Many modern vehicles have transponders in the keys that must be programmed and replaced to work properly. This is a cost that is difficult to estimate before the key is lost and needs to be replaced.
To create a replacement key, a special cutting machine will also be required. These can be expensive to purchase and aren't easily accessible for people without access to a mechanic's workshop. The key housing needs to be replaced, which could increase the cost of a replacement key.
Depending on the kind of car key you have, you may have to purchase other replacement parts too. Certain key fobs, for instance, come with features such as panic or remote lock/unlock buttons, which can increase the total cost. Additionally, some key fobs require a battery that can be quite pricey to replace.
It is recommended to create an extra car key before you lose your original key. This will ease the stress of losing your keys and ensure that you have an extra. If you require a new car key, locate a locksmith or dealer that has the appropriate equipment to repair your vehicle. replacement key for car near me is less expensive than buying a new key from the dealer, and you will avoid the fees that are high with this method.
If you have an ignition key that requires programming, it's important to keep a record of the immobilizer code, or the key number in case you need to get it reprogrammed in the future. This information is available on your registration or title, or on other documents. A locksmith or auto dealer will charge a fee for providing this information.
Cost of Equipment
Modern automobiles come with key fobs that can lock, unlock and even start the vehicle with just the button. These devices can be very convenient, but expensive to replace when they are damaged or lost. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace keys without needing to replace the device. However, there are several aspects to take into consideration when it comes to the cost of replacing a car key.
The Year, Make and Model of the vehicle
There are many different types 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 especially true for modern car keys, which have transponders in them that require programming to the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, but will cost more than a regular key copy.
Another factor that can affect the cost of a replacement car key is the model of car. Older cars with basic keys cost less to replace. However the most modern cars require a special key that can cost up $500 to replace.
The type of key as well as the location of the car may also affect the cost of a new key. If you lose your keys in a remote area, you could be charged a higher fee to tow your car to the nearest dealership to have a new key programmed. You can save this cost by keeping a spare key in a safe location in your home, like at work or office.
It is also important to know that most of the time keys for new cars must be programmed at the dealer. This is because most main dealers don't offer mobile key programming services and can only do this in their workshop. This can be a big expense in the case of losing your only set of car keys, so it is recommended to be proactive and carry a spare with you at all times.
Cost of Replacement Keys
You may need to buy new keys from an automotive locksmith or a dealer depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Before you do this, make sure to check the type of key in your vehicle and whether it is equipped with a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can raise the cost of replacing your car's keys.
A traditional car key without key fobs is inexpensive and can usually be duplicated at the local hardware store for under $25. It's a good idea have a backup just in case you lose the original.
More recent cars have a key fob that emits an electronic signal to unlock and start the car. It can be a hassle to replace when it's lost, as you'll need to contact the manufacturer to get a new one and 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 repaired at the dealership as long as you can show proof of ownership using registration or title. However, the dealer could still charge an extra fee for the service to cover travel costs and time spent on remote locations. Alternately, you can purchase an aftermarket key on the internet or even directly from the car manufacturer. This is a cheaper option, but it is also more risky due to the fact that the quality of the keys cannot be guaranteed.
Never try to break 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. This could also result in damage to the lock, which could lead to cost-intensive repairs or replacements. If you are able to locate your car keys, it could be worth the extra cost to have them duplicated by an auto expert instead of the dealership. This can save you money, particularly when you have a spare car key at home.