The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
It can be very frustrating to lose your car keys. But it's important to remember that a replacement key may not be as expensive as you think.
The cost of purchasing a new car key is determined by several factors including the type of replacement key you require and the location you live in. Traditional keys are the cheapest while smart keys are the most costly.
Cost of the parts
Depending on the type of key you require, the cost can vary. Standard keys without transponder chips are priced from $50 to $110. The cost increases for those who require a key fob equipped with a transponder chip or a vehicle with a push-to-start feature that requires a second fob to activate the car. Those types of keys can be costly to duplicate or replace, and are difficult for car thieves to break into.
The year, make and model of your car can also impact the cost. The transponder chip on newer cars will need to be programmed by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that the replacement key needs to be programmed to work with the car, which could cost up to $200. The cost of replacing keys can also be affected by:
Auto locksmiths may be the most affordable, but they lack the equipment needed to handle complex key fobs or vehicles. If you don't have the appropriate tools, it may be difficult to copy an ordinary key at the hardware store. You can also call roadside assistance for a new key. However, they'll transport your vehicle to a dealer and the process could take a few days.
If you have an older key fob, it is ideal to purchase laser-cut all in-one keys and program them yourself. auto locksmith car key replacement is becoming more difficult, as many key fobs come with security features that can prevent theft. Numerous companies offer software to design keys. However, they are only available as a service to customers with service contracts. If you try to get around these restrictions, it can lead to problems, since most locksmiths won't open vehicles that are forced or altered with. Insurance providers will be alerted if you use wire hangers to open your car.
Cost of Labor
The kind of car key you require will determine how much it will cost to replace. For less than $10, a conventional double-edged key can be duplicated at a local hardware shop. To program and make more advanced keys, you will need special machines. This can significantly increase the cost of replacing your car keys.
You'll also need a brand new key fob in case your car uses one to start and unlock it. It could cost up to $200, based on the model and brand of your vehicle. Many newer vehicles use transponders in the keys, which needs to be programmed and re-installed in order to work correctly. This is an additional cost that is hard to estimate until the key is lost and must be replaced.
To make a new replacement key, a specially-designed cutting machine is required. These are expensive and aren't readily available for those who don't have a mechanic shop. In addition, the housing of the key needs to be replaced too, which can add to the total cost of an replacement car key.
Depending on the type of car key, you might need to purchase other replacement parts as well. For instance, some key fobs have features like panic and remote lock/unlock buttons that can add to the total cost. car transponder key replacement need a battery, which can be expensive to replace.
It is advisable to create an additional key prior to the time you lose the original. This will allow you to avoid the stress of losing your keys and ensure that you have an extra. If you do need a new key, you should seek out an auto dealer or locksmith equipped to work with your vehicle. It will cost less than buying a new key from a dealer and will save you the high fees that come when you choose this option.
If you have an ignition key that requires programming, you must keep a record of the immobilizer code or key number in case you want to have it reprogrammed later on. This information is normally located on your title or registration and can be provided to an auto dealer or locksmith for a small fee.
Cost of Equipment
Modern vehicles come with key fobs that can lock, unlock, and start the vehicle by pressing the button. These devices are extremely convenient, however they can also be expensive to replace if damaged or lost. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace keys without having to replace the device. However, there are many 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 car keys, starting with basic laser cut keys to switchblade keys. These keys are difficult to duplicate since they are unique. This is especially relevant 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 standard key copy.
The type of vehicle can affect the price. Basic keys and older cars are cheaper to replace, but 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 can influence the cost of a new car key. If you lose your keys in a remote location, you could be charged a higher price for towing your car to the nearest dealer to get a new key programmed. You can cut down on this expense by keeping keys in a safe place like your home or office.
It is also important to know that most times the new car key has to be programmed by a dealer. This is because the majority of dealers don't offer mobile key programming facilities and are able to do this in their workshop. It can be costly in the event that you lose your primary set of keys. Therefore, it's best to keep a spare set with you.
Cost of replacing keys
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle You may need to purchase replacement keys from a dealer or an automotive locksmith. Check the key of your car to see if it has an electronic transponder or smart key chip. These technologies can raise your car key replacement cost.
A traditional car without a keyfob is affordable and can be duplicated in an area hardware store for less than $25. It is recommended to keep another spare in the event that you lose the original.
The majority of new cars have an ignition key that emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your vehicle. This can be a major issue to replace in the event of it being lost, since you'll have to contact your manufacturer of your car to request a replacement key and have it paired with your vehicle. The cost of the replacement key fob can range from $50 to $125.
In some cases you can get a key fob replaced at the dealership as long as you can prove ownership by proving registration or title. However, the dealer could charge an additional cost to cover the cost of travel and time spent in remote locations. You can also purchase an aftermarket car key online, or directly from the manufacturer. This may be less expensive however it's more risky due to the fact that the quality of the keys can't be guaranteed.
Don't attempt to get into your car with wire hangers or force. This could set off alarms and make it harder for a locksmith to open the door. This could also damage the lock, which could cause more expensive repairs or replacements. If you can locate your car keys, it could be worth the extra expense to get them cloned at an auto expert instead of the dealership. This can help you save money, especially in the event that you have an extra car key in your home.