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 may not cost as much as you think.
The cost of buying a new car key is determined by various factors including the type of replacement key you require and your location. Traditional keys are the cheapest while the smart keys are more expensive.
Cost of parts
The cost will differ based on the type of key that you need. Standard keys that have no transponder chips can be copied for between $50 to $110. If you require a keyfob with a chip or a push to start vehicle that requires a second fob, the costs will increase. Keys with transponder chips are expensive to duplicate and replace, and they are also more difficult to steal.
The cost will also be dependent on the year, make and type of car you have. Newer vehicles may come with transponder chips which need to be paired with the car by an auto locksmith or dealer. That means that a spare key will have to be programmed with the car, which can add up to $200. Other factors that affect the cost of replacement keys include:
Auto locksmiths are the cheapest alternative, but they don't have the equipment required to deal with more advanced key fobs and vehicles. You can attempt to duplicate a basic key in a hardware shop, but the process is time-consuming and may be a challenge if you do not have the proper tools. You can also seek roadside assistance to help obtain a new key however, they'll likely take your vehicle to a dealership, and the process could take 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. But this is becoming more and more difficult because key fobs are often equipped with security features to guard against theft. Many companies have software programs that can be used to make keys, but these are typically only available to those with service contracts or as a service offered by the dealership. Most locksmiths won't open cars that have been forced to open or tampered. If you are able to use wire hangers or some other method to open the vehicle it will raise red flags for insurance providers.
Cost of Labor
The type of car key you require will determine how much it will cost to replace. For less than $10, a traditional double-edged key can be duplicated in an area hardware store. To program and make more advanced keys, you will need special equipment. This can add significantly to the cost of replacing a car key.
If your vehicle has the key fob to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll need install a new key fob in addition. It can cost as high as $200, based on the model and make of your vehicle. In addition, many modern vehicles also have a transponder chip in the key that needs to be replaced and programmed in order to function properly. This is a price that is difficult to estimate before the key is lost and has to be replaced.
A cutting machine with specialized capabilities is also required to create the new replacement key. replacement key for a car are costly and aren't readily available to people who do not have an auto repair shop. In addition, the housing of the key needs to be replaced too which could add to 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 replacement parts. Some key fobs, for instance, come with features such as remote lock/unlock or panic buttons, which can increase the total cost. Additionally, some key fobs require batteries which can be expensive to replace.
It is recommended to make an additional key prior to the time you lose your original. This will ease the stress of losing your keys, and ensure you have a backup. If you do need an additional key, try to find an auto dealer or locksmith with the right equipment to work with your car. This will be cheaper than purchasing a new one from a dealer and could let you avoid some of the high cost associated with those alternatives.
If you own a key that requires programming, you must have a record of the immobilizer code or key number in case you want to have it reprogrammed later on. This information is typically found on your registration or title and is available to a locksmith or auto dealer for a small fee.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars are equipped with key fobs that allow you to lock or unlock and even start the car just by pressing the button. These devices are extremely convenient, but they can also be expensive to replace if lost or broken. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace keys without having to replace the device. There are several factors to take into account when determining the price of a new car key.
The year, the make and model of the vehicle.
There are many different types of keys for cars, ranging from simple laser cut keys to switchblade keys. These keys are distinct, and they are difficult to duplicate. This is especially the case for modern car keys, that have transponders that need to be programmed to the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, but will cost more than a regular key copy.
Another aspect that could affect the cost of a replacement car key is the type of car. Cars with basic keys cost less to replace. However the most modern cars require a special device that can cost as much as $500 to replace.
The type of key and the location of the vehicle could affect the cost of a replacement key. If you lose your keys in an unfamiliar area, you may be charged a higher fee to take your vehicle to the nearest dealer to have a new one programmed. This expense can be prevented by keeping a spare key in a safe place such as at home or at work.
It is crucial to know that keys that are new will probably require programming by the dealer. This is due to the fact that the majority of major dealers do not offer mobile key programming and only do this in their workshop. This could be a huge expense in the case of losing your only set of car keys, so it is recommended to take preventative measures and keep a spare set with you at all times.
Cost of Replacement Keys
Based on the make 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 key in your vehicle and whether it has a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can increase your car key replacement cost.
A traditional car key without a key fob is relatively cheap and can typically be duplicated at an hardware store in your area for less than $25. It is recommended to have an extra in case you lose the original.
Most modern cars come with the key fob that emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your vehicle. This can be a huge problem to replace in the event that it is lost, as you will 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 vary from $50 to $150.
In some instances, you may be able to replace a keyfob at the dealer if you provide evidence of ownership, like an official registration or a title. However, the dealer could charge an additional fee for the service to cover the cost of travel and time spent at an unreachable location. Alternatively, you can buy an aftermarket key online, or even directly from the car manufacturer. This is a cheaper option, but it is also more risky as the quality of the keys can't be guaranteed.
Do not 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. This could also damage the lock, which will cause higher costs for repairs or replacements. If you can locate your car keys it may be worth the extra cost to have them cloned by an auto specialist rather than the dealership. This can save you money, particularly if there is a spare car key at home.