The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
Losing your car keys can be a frustrating experience. But it's important to remember that a replacement key might not be as costly as you think.
The cost of a replacement car key is contingent on a variety of factors, including the type of key you require and your location. Traditional keys are the most affordable while the smart keys are more expensive.
Cost of the parts
The price will vary based on the type of key that you need. Standard keys without transponder chips are priced from $50 to $110. If you need an electronic keyfob or a push-to-start vehicle that requires a second fob the costs will increase. These types of keys can be expensive to duplicate or replace, and are difficult for car thieves to gain access to.
The cost is also affected by the year, make and type of vehicle you own. The transponder chip on newer cars will need to be connected with an auto locksmith or dealer. That means that the spare key needs to be programmed with the car, which could cost up to $200. The cost of replacement keys can also be affected by:
Auto locksmiths may be the cheapest, but they lack the equipment needed to handle complex key fobs or vehicles. If you don't have the right tools, it may be difficult to duplicate an ordinary key at a hardware shop. You can also call roadside assistance for a new key. However, they will take your vehicle to a dealer and the process can take a few days.
If you own a newer key fob, the most efficient method to save money is to purchase all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. This is becoming more difficult as a lot of key fobs come with security features that can prevent theft. Numerous companies offer software to make keys. However, these are only available as an option for customers who have service contracts. If you try to get around these restrictions, it can cause problems as most locksmiths will not open vehicles that were forced or tampered with. If you're able use wire hangers or some other method to open the car, that will also set off red flags for insurance companies.
Cost of Labor
The kind of car key you require will determine how much it will cost to replace. A traditional double-edged car key can be duplicated at a local hardware store for less than $10. However, more advanced keys require special machines to create and program. This can add significantly to the cost of replacing a car key.
If your vehicle has a key fob to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll need install a new key fob also. The cost could be anywhere from to $200 based on your vehicle's model and make. A lot of newer cars have a transponder in the key, which needs to be programmed and re-installed in order to work properly. This is a price that is hard to estimate prior to the moment when the key is lost and has to be replaced.
A cutting machine with specialized capabilities is also required to create the new key replacement. They are expensive and are not accessible for those who don't have a mechanic shop. In addition, the housing of the key must be replaced as well and this can increase the total cost of an replacement car key.
Based on the type of car key, you may need to buy other replacement parts too. Some key fobs, for instance, come with features such as panic or remote lock/unlock buttons that can increase overall costs. Furthermore, certain key fobs need a battery which can be expensive to replace.
It is best to make an extra car key before you lose the one you have. This will lessen the anxiety that comes with losing your keys and ensure that you always have a working backup. If you do end up needing an additional key, you should seek out an auto dealer or locksmith equipped to work with your vehicle. This is less expensive than getting a new one from the dealership and should enable you to avoid some of the high cost associated with those options.
If you own keys that require programming, it's important to keep a record of your immobilizer code or the key number in case you need to have it reprogrammed later on. This information is usually found on your registration or title and can be provided to an auto dealer or locksmith for a small fee.
Cost of Equipment
Modern automobiles come with key fobs that can lock, unlock and start the vehicle with just one button. These devices can be very convenient, but expensive to replace if they become damaged or lost. Fortunately, locksmiths can save you money by replacing these types of keys without the cost of replacing the device itself. There are many factors to take into account when determining the cost of the replacement of a car key.
The Year, Make and Model of the vehicle
There are numerous kinds of car keys, ranging from laser-cut keys to switchblades. These keys are difficult to duplicate due to being unique. This is especially true for modern car key transponders that must be programmed into the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, but will cost more than a standard key copy.
The model of the vehicle will influence the cost. Keys for older cars that are basic cost less to replace. However, the most advanced 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 also affect the cost of a replacement key. It could cost you more to tow your vehicle to the nearest dealer if you lose your keys in an area unfamiliar. This expense can be reduced by keeping a spare key in a safe location such as at home or at work.
It is also important to know that, most of the time keys for new cars must be programmed at the dealer. This is due to the fact that most major dealers do not have mobile key programming services and can only do this in their workshop. It can be expensive when you lose your sole set of keys. So, it's better to keep a spare set on you.
Cost of replacing keys
You might need to purchase replacement keys from an auto locksmith or a dealer depending on the make and models of your vehicle. Check the key of your car to determine if it is equipped with a transponder or smart key chip. These technologies can raise the cost of your car key replacement.
A classic car that doesn't have a keyfob is inexpensive and can be duplicated in an area hardware store for less than $25. It's best to have a spare in the event that you lose the original.
Most modern cars come with an ignition key that emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your car. This can be a major issue to replace in the event that it is lost, as you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to request a replacement key and then pair it with your vehicle. The cost of the replacement key fob can range from $50 to $125.
In automotive car key replacement , you may be able to change a keyfob in the dealer if you provide evidence of ownership, such as a registration or title. However, the dealer might still charge an extra fee for the service 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 less expensive, but may be a bit more risky since the quality of these keys cannot be guaranteed.
Do not attempt to get into your car with wire hangers or force. This could trigger alarms and make it harder for a locksmith to open the door. This could also cause damage to the lock, which would cause higher costs for repairs or replacements. If you can locate your car keys, it could be worth the extra cost to have them duplicated by an auto expert rather than the dealership. This could save you a lot of money, especially if you have an extra key in your home.