The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
Losing your car keys could be a stressful experience. It’s important to remember that a replacement key for your car might not cost more than you think.
The cost of buying a new car key is determined by several aspects, including the kind of replacement key you require and the location of your home. Keys made of traditional design are the least expensive, while smart keys are the most costly.
Cost of Parts
Depending on the kind of key you require, the cost can depend on the type of key you require, the cost can vary. Keys that are standard and do not have transponder chips are available for copying between $50 to $110. If you need a keyfob with a chip or a push to start vehicle that requires a second fob, the cost will rise. These types of keys are costly to duplicate or replace and are difficult for car thieves to break into.
The year the make and model of your car can also impact the price. The transponder chip in newer vehicles will need to be paired with an auto locksmith car key replacement cost or dealer. That means that a spare key will have to be programmed to work with the car, which can add up to $200. The cost of replacement keys can also be affected by:
Auto locksmiths are the least expensive alternative, but they do not have all the tools needed to deal with more sophisticated key fobs or vehicles. If you don’t have the proper tools, it could be difficult to copy an ordinary key at the hardware store. You can also call roadside assistance for a replacement key. However, they’ll tow your vehicle to a dealer, and the process can take a few days.
If you own a newer key fob, the best way to reduce your costs is to buy all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. This is becoming more difficult as a lot of key fobs have security features that prevent theft. Many companies have software programs that can be used to make keys, but these are generally only available to customers 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. Insurance companies will be notified when you make use of wire hangers to open your car.
Cost of Labor
The type of car key that you need will determine how much it will cost to replace. A traditional double-edged car key is usually duplicated at your local hardware store for less than $10. However, more advanced keys require special machines to create and program. This could significantly increase the cost of replacing your car key.
You’ll also require a new key fob in case your vehicle has one to start and unlock it. The cost could range from $100 to $200 depending on the vehicle’s model and make. Additionally, many newer vehicles also include a transponder inside the key that needs to be replaced and programmed to function properly. This is an additional expense that can be difficult to estimate until the key is lost and must be replaced.
A cutting machine with specialized capabilities is also required to make the new replacement key. These are expensive and are not accessible to those who do not have an auto repair shop. In addition, the housing of the key needs to be replaced too and this can increase the overall costs of making a replacement car key.
Depending on the type of car key, you may also need to purchase additional replacement parts. For instance, some key fobs include features like remote lock/unlock and panic buttons which can increase the total cost. Some key fobs also require batteries which can be costly to replace.
It is advisable to create an extra key before you lose the original. This will lessen the stress that comes with losing keys and ensure that you always have a functioning backup. If you need a new car key, locate an authorized locksmith or dealer who is equipped to repair your vehicle. This is less expensive than purchasing a new key from the dealer and will save you the fees that are high with this method.
If you own a key that requires programming, it’s important to keep a record of your immobilizer code or key number in case you want to have it reprogrammed later on. This information is typically located on your title or registration and is available to a locksmith or auto dealer for a small fee.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars have key fobs that are able to lock, unlock, and even start the car by simply pressing one button. These devices are extremely convenient, however they can be costly to replace if damaged or lost key replacement car. However, locksmiths are able to save you money by replacing these types of keys, without the expense of replacing the device itself. However, there are several aspects to take into consideration when determining the cost of replacing a car key.
The year, make and model of the vehicle
There are a variety of keys for cars, from simple laser cut keys to switchesblade keys. These keys are distinct and are difficult to duplicate. This is particularly the case for modern car keys transponders that must be programmed into the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, however it will generally cost more than a copy of the keys.
Another factor that can impact the cost of a replacement car key is the type of car. Older cars with basic keys cost less to replace. However, the most advanced cars require a special key that can cost as much as $500 to replace.
The type of key and location of the vehicle could affect the cost of a replacement car key. You could be charged more to tow your vehicle to the nearest dealership if you lose your keys somewhere unfamiliar. This cost can be prevented by keeping a spare key in a safe location such as at home or at work.
It is also important to remember that, most times the new car key fob replacement key is programmed by the dealer. It is because the majority of major dealers do not offer mobile key programming and only perform this service in their workshop. This can be a big cost in the event of losing your car’s only set of keys, which is why it’s recommended to take preventative measures and keep a spare with you at all times.
Cost of replacement keys
You might need to purchase new keys from an automotive locksmith or a dealer, depending on the model and make of your vehicle. Check your vehicle’s key to determine if it is equipped with an electronic transponder or smart key chip. These technologies can increase the price of your car key replacement.
A traditional car key without a key fob is relatively inexpensive and can usually be duplicated at a local hardware store for under $25. It is recommended to keep another spare in the event that you lose your original.
The latest cars come with key fobs that emit an electronic signal to unlock and start the car. This could be a big hassle to replace in the event that it is lost key replacement car, since you’ll have to contact the car manufacturer for a new key and pair it with your vehicle. The cost of the replacement key fob can range from $50 to $125.
In some cases you can change a keyfob in the dealership if you have evidence of ownership, such as a registration or title. Dealers may charge an additional fee to cover the cost of travel and the time spent in an unreachable location. You can also buy an aftermarket car key online, or directly from the manufacturer. This is a cheaper option but it’s more risky due to the fact that the quality of the keys cannot be guaranteed.
Do not attempt to get into your car with wire hangers or force. This could trigger alarms and make it more difficult for a locksmith to open the door. This could also damage the lock and lead to additional charges for a complete repair or replacement. If you can locate the car keys, it might be worth it to have them copied by an auto specialist rather than at the dealership. This could save you money, especially in the event that you have an extra car key at home.
