The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
Losing your car keys could be a stressful experience. It's important to remember that a replacement car key may not cost more than you think.
The cost of replacing a car key depends on several factors, including the type of key you require and your location. Traditional keys are the cheapest while smart keys are the most expensive.
Cost of Parts
Depending on what type of key you require the price will vary. Keys that are standard, but without transponder chips are available for copying between $50 to $110. The costs increase if you need keys equipped with a transponder chip or a push-to-start vehicle that requires a second fob to activate the car. These types of keys are costly to duplicate or replace, and are more difficult for thieves to break into.
The year the make and model of your car can also impact the cost. The latest models may have transponder chips that need to be linked to the car by an auto locksmith or dealer. That means that a spare key will have to be programmed to work with the car. This can add up to $200. Other factors that influence the cost of replacement keys include:
Auto locksmiths are the cheapest alternative, however they don't have all the tools needed to deal with more advanced key fobs and vehicles. You can attempt to duplicate a basic key at a hardware store, but the process is time-consuming and can be difficult when you don't have the right tools. You can also rely on roadside assistance to help obtain a new key but they'll probably tow your car to a dealer and the process could take days to complete.
If you own a more recent key fob, the most efficient way to reduce your costs is to purchase all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. But this is becoming more difficult because many key fobs have security features to guard against theft. Many companies offer software programs to design keys. However, these are only a service to customers who have service contracts. If you try to get around these restrictions, it can cause problems since most locksmiths won't open cars that have been forced or tampered with. If you are able to employ wire hangers or a different method to open the vehicle, that will also set off red flags for insurance companies.
Cost of Labor
The cost of replacing the car key will vary on the type of key you require. A standard double-edged car keys can usually be duplicated at your local hardware store for less than $10. However, more advanced keys require specialized equipment to create and program. This can add significantly to the total cost of replacing a car key.
If your vehicle has the key fob to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll have to install a new key fob also. The cost can be up to $200 based on the vehicle's model and make. Additionally, many newer vehicles also include a transponder in the key that needs to be replaced and programmed to function properly. This is an additional cost that is hard to estimate until the key actually is lost and requires to be replaced.
To make a new replacement key, a special cutting machine is required. They can be costly to purchase and are not easily accessible for people without a mechanic's shop. Additionally, the key's housing needs to be replaced too and this can increase the overall cost of a replacement car key.
Depending on the car key type, you may also need to purchase other replacement parts. Certain key fobs, as an example, have features like remote lock/unlock or panic buttons which can add to overall costs. Additionally, some key fobs require a battery that can be quite pricey to replace.
It is recommended to make a spare key before you lose your primary. This will lessen the stress of losing your keys and will ensure that you always have a working backup. If you require a new car key, find a locksmith or dealer that has the right equipment to work on your vehicle. This will be less expensive than purchasing a new key from a dealer and will save you the fees that are high with this method.
It's important to keep the immobilizer code as well as your key number in case you need to reprogramme a key. This information is available on your registration and title or any other document. A locksmith or auto dealer will charge a fee to provide this information.
Cost of Equipment
Modern automobiles have key fobs which 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 lost or broken. Locksmiths can save you money by replacing keys without having to replace the device. There are a variety of factors to take into account when determining the price of a new car key.
replacement key fobs for cars , Make & Model of the vehicle
There are many kinds of keys for cars, ranging starting with basic laser cut keys to switchblade keys. These keys are very difficult to duplicate since they are so distinct. This is especially relevant for modern car keys, that have transponders that require programming to the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, however it will generally cost more than a copy of the keys.
The type of vehicle can affect the price. Older cars and basic keys are more affordable to replace, but the most sophisticated cars will typically require a separate device to start the car, which can cost up to $500 to replace.
The type of key as well as the location of the car could influence the cost of a new car key. You may be charged more to tow your car to the nearest dealership if you lose your keys in a place in a foreign location. This expense can be reduced by keeping a spare key in a secure place such as at home or at work.
It is important to note that a new key will probably require programming by the dealer. It is because the majority of dealers do not provide mobile key programming and can only perform this service in their workshop. This could be a huge expense if you end up losing your car's only set of keys, therefore it is recommended to be proactive and carry a spare with you always.
Cost of Key Replacement
Based on the brand and model of your car depending on the make and model of your car, you may have to purchase replacement keys from an auto dealer or locksmith. Before doing so, verify the type of your car's keys and whether it has a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can increase the cost of your car key replacement.
A traditional car key without a key fob is relatively inexpensive and can usually be duplicated at the local hardware store for under $25. It is recommended to keep a spare in case you lose the original.
The majority of new cars have the key fob that emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your vehicle. This can be a huge issue to replace in the event that it gets lost, since 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 key fob replacement can be anywhere between $50-$150.
In some cases you can change a keyfob in the dealer if you provide evidence of ownership, like the registration or title. Dealers may charge an additional fee to cover the cost of travel and time spent in a remote location. Alternatively, you can buy an aftermarket key online or even directly from the car manufacturer. This is a cheaper option however it's more risky due to the fact that the quality of the keys can't be guaranteed.
Do not attempt to break into your car using wire hangers or force. This could raise alarms and make it harder for a locksmith to open the door. This could also cause damage to the lock and lead to additional charges for a complete repair or replacement. If you can find your car keys, it could be worth the extra cost to have them cloned by an auto technician instead of at the dealership. This can save you money, especially in the event that you have a spare car key at home.