The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
Losing your car keys can be a very frustrating experience. It is important to remember that a replacement car key may not cost as much as you think.
The cost of purchasing a new car key is determined by various factors including the type of replacement key you need and the location of your home. The traditional keys are the least costly, while the smart keys are more expensive.
Cost of Parts
Based on the type of key you require the price will vary. Keys with transponder chips that are standard are priced between $50 and $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 start the car. These keys are expensive to duplicate and replace, and they are also more difficult to steal.
The year, make and model of your car will also impact the cost. The transponder chip in newer vehicles will need to be programmed with an auto locksmith or dealer. That means that the spare key needs to be programmed with the car. This could cost as much as $200. The cost of replacement keys is also affected by
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 copy a basic key by yourself at a hardware store, however, the process takes a long time and may be a challenge in the absence of the proper tools. You can also rely on roadside assistance to help you get a replacement key but they'll probably take your vehicle to a dealership and the process could take a few days to complete.
If you own a more recent key fob, the most efficient way to cut costs is to buy all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. This is becoming increasingly difficult since many key fobs have security features that stop theft. Numerous companies offer software to make keys. However, they are only available as an option to customers with service contracts. Trying to bypass these restrictions can lead to problems, as most locksmiths will not allow cars to be opened if they were forced or tampered with. If you are able to use wire hangers or some other method to open the vehicle and then set off red flags for insurance providers.
Cost of Labor
The cost of replacing the car key will vary on the type you need. For less than $10, a conventional double-edged key can be duplicated in an area hardware store. However, more sophisticated keys require specialized equipment to make and program. This can increase the total cost of replacing the car key.
You'll also require a new key fob if the vehicle has one to unlock and start it. The cost could be anywhere from to $200 based on the make and model. Many newer vehicles use a transponder in the key that must be programmed and re-installed in order to function properly. This is a price that is hard to estimate prior to the time that the key is lost and must be replaced.
A specialized cutting machine is also required to make the new replacement key. These can be expensive to purchase and not easily accessible for people without access to a mechanic's workshop. In addition, the housing of the key needs to be replaced too and this can increase the overall cost of the replacement key for your car.
Depending on the type of car key you have, you might need to purchase other replacement parts too. For instance, some key fobs include features like remote lock/unlock and panic buttons that can add to total cost. Some key fobs also require batteries, which can be expensive to replace.
It is advisable to make a spare car key prior to the time you lose the original one. This will ease the stress of losing your keys and ensure you have a backup. If you need a replacement car key, locate a locksmith or dealer that has the right equipment to work on your car. This will be cheaper than purchasing a new one from a dealership and will enable you to save some of the costly fees associated with those alternatives.
It is important to keep the immobilizer code and key number if you need to reprogramme a key. This information is usually found on your registration or title and is available to an auto dealer or locksmith for a small fee.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars are equipped with key fobs that are able to lock, unlock, and even start the car with just a button. These devices are extremely convenient, however they can be costly to replace if lost or broken. Luckily, locksmiths can often save you money by replacing these kinds of keys without the expense of replacing the device itself. There are many aspects to take into consideration when determining the price of the replacement of a car key.
The year, make & model of the vehicle
There are many different types of keys for cars, from basic, laser cut keys to switchblade keys. These key types are very distinct and can be difficult to duplicate. This is especially relevant for modern car key transponders that need to be programmed into the vehicle. This procedure can be completed by a professional, however it is generally more expensive than a simple key copy.
The model of car you drive can also affect the cost. car key replacement and basic keys are more affordable to replace, but the most sophisticated cars will generally require a specific device to start the car, which can cost as much as $500 to replace.
The type of key as well as the location of the car can also impact the cost of a new key. If you lose your keys in a remote area, you could be charged a higher fee for towing your car to the nearest dealership to have a new key programmed. This cost is prevented by keeping an extra key in a secure place like at home or work.
It is important to note that the new key will probably need to be programmed by the dealer. This is due to the fact that the majority of major dealers do not provide mobile key programming and can only do this in their workshop. This can be a big cost in the event of losing your only set of car keys, therefore it is recommended to take preventative measures and carry a spare with you always.
Cost of Key Replacement
Based on the brand and model of your vehicle depending on the make and model of your car, you may have to purchase replacement keys from an auto dealer or locksmith. Examine the key in your vehicle to determine if it's a smart key or transponder chip. These technologies can increase the cost of your vehicle key replacement.
A traditional car that doesn't have a keyfob is inexpensive and can be duplicated in the local hardware store for less than $25. It's a good idea keep a backup in case you lose the original.
More recent cars have key fobs that emit an electronic signal to unlock and start the vehicle. It's a hassle to replace in the event of a loss, as you'll need to contact the manufacturer for the new one and connect it with your car. The cost of a typical key fob replacement can vary between $50-$150.
In some instances, you may be able to replace a keyfob at the dealership if you can provide evidence of ownership, like a registration or title. However, the dealer might still charge an extra cost to cover travel costs and time spent in a remote location. You can also buy an aftermarket car key online, or directly from the manufacturer. This option is cheaper but it could be more risky because the quality of the keys cannot be assured.
It is not advisable to gain entry into your car with the use of wire hangers or force, because this could raise red flags and make it difficult for a professional locksmith to unlock your car's door. This could also cause damage to the lock and lead to additional costs for a full repair or replacement. If you can locate your car keys, it could be worth the extra money to get them cloned at an auto specialist instead of at the dealership. This can save you lots of money, particularly if you have an extra key at home.