The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
Losing your car keys can be a stressful experience. It's important to realize 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 need and the location you live in. Traditional keys are the least expensive, while smart keys are the most costly.
Cost of Parts
Depending on the kind of key you require the price will depend on the type of key you require, the cost can vary. Keys with transponder chips that are standard 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 a second fob to turn on the car. Keys with these types of features are costly to duplicate or replace and are difficult for car thieves to gain access to.
The year and make of your car will also impact the cost. The transponder chip on newer cars will need to be paired with an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that the replacement key needs to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle and could cost up to $200. Other factors that affect the cost of replacement keys include:
Auto locksmiths are the least expensive alternative, however they don't have all the equipment needed to handle more sophisticated key fobs and vehicles. You can try to copy a basic key by yourself in a hardware shop, however, the process can be time-consuming and difficult in the absence of the appropriate tools. You can also seek roadside assistance to assist you find a replacement key however, they'll likely transport your vehicle to a dealership, and the process could take several days to complete.
If you have an old key fob, it is best to buy 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. Numerous companies offer software to create keys. However, these are only available as a service to customers who have service contracts. Locksmiths aren't likely to open vehicles that have had their locks forced or tampered. If you're able employ wire hangers or a different method to open the vehicle it will signal red flags to insurance providers.
Cost of Labor
The type of car key that you require will determine the amount it will cost to replace. For less than $10, a standard double-edged key can be duplicated at an area hardware store. However, more sophisticated keys require special machines to create and program. This can dramatically increase the cost of replacing your car key.
You'll also need a new key fob if the vehicle has one to unlock and start it. This can run up to $200, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Many newer vehicles use transponders in the keys which must be programmed and re-installed in order to work properly. This is an additional cost that is difficult to estimate until the key is lost and must be replaced.
A cutting machine that is specialized is also required to create the new replacement key. These can be expensive to purchase and not readily available to those who do not have a mechanic's shop. In addition, the housing of the key needs to be replaced too, which can add to the total cost of a replacement car key.
Depending on the type of car key it is possible that you will need to purchase replacement parts. Some key fobs, for instance, come with features such as panic or remote lock/unlock buttons which can add to overall costs. Some key fobs also require a battery which can be costly to replace.
It is best to make a spare car key prior to the time you lose the one you have. This will ease the stress of losing keys and ensure that you always have a functional backup. If you need a new key, look for a locksmith or a car dealer that has the proper equipment to work with your car. This will be cheaper than buying a new key from a dealership and will let you save some of the costly fees associated with those alternatives.
It is important to keep a record of your immobilizer code as well as your key number in case you need to reprogramme your key. This information is usually found on your registration or title and can be provided to an auto dealer or locksmith for a fee.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock, unlock, and start the car by simply pressing one button. These devices can be extremely convenient, however they can be costly to replace if they become damaged or lost. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace keys without needing to replace the device. There are many factors to consider when determining the cost of the replacement of a car key.
The year, make & model of the vehicle.
There are a variety of car keys, ranging from laser-cut keys to switchblades. They are extremely difficult to duplicate because they are so distinct. This is particularly the case for modern car keys which have transponders in them which need to be programmed to the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, however it 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 sophisticated 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 vehicle may also influence the cost of a replacement car key. You may be charged more to tow your vehicle to the nearest dealer if you lose your keys in an area unfamiliar. This expense can be prevented by keeping a spare key in a secure place such as at home or work.
It is important to note that the new key will most likely need to be programmed by the dealer. This is because the majority of main dealers do not offer mobile key programming and can only do this in their workshop. This could be a huge cost in the event of losing your only set of car keys, so it is recommended to take preventative measures and carry a spare with you at all times.
Cost of replacement keys
You may need to buy replacement keys from an automotive locksmith or a dealer, depending on the model and make of your vehicle. Before doing so, verify the type of key in your vehicle and if it comes with a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies could increase the cost of replacing your car's keys.
A classic car that doesn't have a keyfob is affordable and can be duplicated in the local hardware store for less than $25. It's a good idea to have a backup in case you lose the original.
The latest cars come with key fobs that emit an electronic signal to unlock and start the vehicle. This can be a huge hassle to replace in the event that it is lost, as you'll have to contact the manufacturer of the car for a new key and have it paired with your vehicle. car key replacement cost of an alternative key fob ranges between $50 and $125.
In some cases, you can have a key fob replaced at the dealership so long as you show proof of ownership using registration or title. However, the dealer may charge an additional cost to cover the cost of travel and time spent at remote locations. Alternately, you can purchase an aftermarket key online, or even directly from the vehicle manufacturer. This is a cheaper option, but it is also more risky as the quality of the keys cannot be assured.
Don't attempt to hack into your car using wire hangers or force. This could raise 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 can locate the car keys, it might be worth the extra cost to have them duplicated by an auto technician rather than at the dealership. This can help you save money, especially when you have an extra car key at home.