The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
It can be very frustrating to lose your car keys. It's important to realize that a replacement key might not cost as much as you think.
The cost of purchasing a new car key is determined by a variety of factors including the type of replacement key you need and the location you live in. The traditional keys are the most affordable and the smart keys are more expensive.
Cost of Parts
Depending on the kind of key you require the price can vary. Keys with transponder chips that are standard are priced from $50 to $110. If you need the keyfob to be chipped or a push-to-start vehicle that requires a second fob, the price will increase. These keys are expensive to duplicate and replace, and they are also more difficult to steal.
The cost can also be affected by the year, model and year of car you have. Newer cars may have transponder chips which need to be paired with the car by a dealer or auto locksmith. That means that a spare key will have to be programmed with the car. This can add up to $200. Other factors that influence the cost of replacement keys include:
Auto locksmiths are the least expensive option, but they don't have all the equipment needed to handle more advanced key fobs and vehicles. If you don't have the proper tools, it could be difficult to duplicate a simple key at an hardware shop. You can also call roadside assistance to request a replacement key. However, they'll tow your vehicle to a dealer, and the process could take a few days.
If you have a newer key fob, the most efficient method to save money is to purchase all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. But this is becoming more and more difficult since many key fobs have security features to guard against theft. Many companies have software that can be used to make keys, but they are usually only available to customers who have service contracts or as a courtesy through the dealership. 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 are able to use wire hangers or some other method of opening the car and then signal red flags to insurance companies.
Cost of Labor
The cost of replacing a car key will be contingent on the type of key you require. A standard double-edged car keys can be duplicated at your local hardware store for less than $10. However, content require special machines to create and program. This could significantly increase the cost of replacing your car key.
If your car has a key fob to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll have to install a new fob as well. The cost could be anywhere from to $200 depending on the make and model. Many newer vehicles use a transponder in the key which must be programmed and re-installed in order to work properly. This is a cost that is difficult to estimate before the key is lost and must be replaced.
To create a replacement key, a specially-designed cutting machine will also be required. They are expensive and aren't readily available to people who do not have a mechanic shop. The key housing also needs to be replaced, which can increase the cost of replacing a key.
Depending on the type of car key, you may also need to purchase replacement parts. For example, some key fobs come with features like remote lock/unlock and panic buttons that can add to the total cost. Some key fobs also require a battery that can be costly to replace.
It is best to make an extra car key before you lose the original one. This will reduce the anxiety that comes with losing keys and ensure that you always have a working backup. If you require a new car key, find a dealer or locksmith that has the right equipment to work on your vehicle. This will be cheaper than buying a new key from the dealership and should let you avoid the high costs associated with these options.
If you own an ignition key that requires programming, you must keep a record of your immobilizer code or the key number in case you want to be able to reprogramme it later. This information is available on your registration and title or any other document. A locksmith or auto dealer will charge a fee for providing this information.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars come with key fobs that can lock, unlock, and even start the car with just the button. These devices are convenient, however they can be costly to replace when they're lost or damaged. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace these keys without having to replace the device. There are many aspects to take into consideration when determining the price of the replacement of a car key.
The year, make and model of the vehicle.
There are many kinds of car keys, starting with basic laser cut keys to switchblade keys. These keys are distinct, and they can be difficult to duplicate. This is especially the case for modern car keys transponders, which must be programmed into the vehicle. This can be done by a professional, however it will cost more than a regular key copy.
Another aspect that could affect the cost of replacing a car key is the model of car. Keys for older cars and simple models are less expensive to replace, but the most modern cars typically require a special device to start the car, which could cost as much as $500 to replace.
The type of key as well as the location of the car may also impact the cost of a new key. If you lose your keys in a foreign location, you could be charged a higher price for towing your car to the nearest dealership to have a new one programmed. You can save this cost by keeping a spare key in a secure location in your home, like at work or the office.
It is also important to know that the majority times the new car key must be programmed at the dealer. This is because most main dealers don't offer mobile key programming facilities and can only do it in their workshop. This can be a big cost in the event of losing your only set of car keys, so it is better to take preventative measures and carry a spare with you always.
Cost of replacement keys
Based on the brand and model of your vehicle, you may need to purchase replacement keys from an auto dealer or locksmith. Examine the key in your vehicle to see if it has a smart key or transponder chip. These technologies could increase your car key replacement cost.
A standard car key with key fobs is cheap and can typically be duplicated at a local hardware store for less than $25. It is recommended to keep an extra in case you lose the original.
More recent cars have keys that emit an electronic signal to unlock and start the vehicle. This could be a big issue to replace in the event that it is lost, as you will need to contact the manufacturer of your car to request a replacement key and pair it with your vehicle. The cost of a standard key fob replacement can range between $50 and $150.
In certain instances, you can change a keyfob in the dealership if you can provide evidence of ownership, like a registration or title. Dealers might charge an additional fee to cover the cost of travel and 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 may be a bit more risky as the quality of these keys cannot be assured.
Don't attempt to break into your car using wire hangers or force. This could raise alarms and make it more difficult for a locksmith to open the door. This could also result in damage to the lock, which could result in higher costs for repairs or replacements. If you can locate your car keys, it may be worth the extra money to get them cloned at an auto expert instead of the dealership. This can save you a lot of cash, particularly if have a spare key at home.