The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
It can be a hassle to lose your car keys. But it's important to remember that a replacement key might not be as expensive as you think.
The cost of a replacement for a car key depends on several factors, including the kind of key you need and your location. Traditional keys are the cheapest while the smart keys are more expensive.
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The cost will vary depending on the type of key you need. Keys that are standard and do not have transponder chips are priced from $50 to $110. The cost increases if you need an ignition key equipped with a transponder chip or a vehicle with a push-to-start feature which requires an additional fob to turn on the car. Keys with these types of features are costly to duplicate or replace and are difficult for car thieves to gain access to.
The cost can also be affected by the year, model and year of car you own. The transponder chip in newer vehicles will need to be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that the spare key needs to be programmed with the car. This could cost up to $200. The cost of replacing keys can also be affected by:
Auto locksmiths might be the most affordable, but they lack the equipment needed to handle complex key fobs or vehicles. If you don't have the proper tools, it may be difficult to copy a simple key at the hardware store. You can also rely on roadside assistance to help you find a replacement key but they'll probably take your vehicle to a dealership, and the process could take days to complete.
If you have an older key fob, it is ideal to purchase laser-cut all in-one keys and program them by yourself. But this is becoming more difficult because the majority of key fobs come with security features that prevent theft. Numerous companies offer software to design keys. However, these are only available as a service to customers who have service contracts. In attempting to circumvent these restrictions could cause problems, since locksmiths generally do not allow cars to be opened if they are forced or altered with. If you're able to use wire hangers or another method to open the car, that will also signal red flags to insurance companies.
Cost of Labor
The cost of replacing the car key will vary on the kind you require. A standard double-edged car key can usually be duplicated at a local hardware store for less than $10. However, more advanced keys require special equipment to create and program. This can add significantly to the cost of replacing keys for cars.
If your car uses the key fob to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll need install a new key fob also. The cost could range from $100 to $200, depending on your vehicle's make and model. Many modern vehicles have transponders in the keys which must be programmed and replaced in order to work correctly. This is a price that is hard to estimate before the key is lost and needs to be replaced.
To make a new replacement key, a specially-designed cutting machine will also be required. They are costly and are not accessible to people who do not have an auto repair shop. The key housing needs to be replaced, which may increase the cost of a replacement key.
Depending on the car key type, you may also need to purchase other replacement parts. Certain key fobs, as an instance, come with features such as panic or remote lock/unlock buttons, which can increase the overall cost. Additionally, some key fobs require batteries which can be expensive to replace.
It is recommended to make a spare key before you lose your original. This will reduce the anxiety that comes with losing your keys and ensure that you always have a functioning backup. If you need a new car key, you should find a dealer or locksmith that has the right equipment to work on your car. This is less expensive than getting a new one from the dealership and should allow you to avoid some of the high fees associated with those options.
If you own keys that require programming, it's essential to keep a record of the immobilizer code or key number in case you have to have it reprogrammed later on. This information is usually located on your registration or title and is available to a locksmith or auto dealer for a fee.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars are equipped with key fobs that allow you to lock, unlock, and even start the car by simply pressing a button. These devices are useful, but they are expensive to replace when they are damaged or lost. Fortunately, locksmiths can save you money by replacing these types of keys without the added expense of replacing the device itself. However, there are several factors to consider when it comes to determining the cost of replacing a car key.
The year, make and model of the vehicle.
There are a variety of keys for cars, ranging starting with basic laser cut keys to switchesblade keys. These keys are distinct, and they can be difficult to duplicate. automotive car key replacement is especially the case for modern car keys transponders that must be programmed into the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, however it will cost more than a standard key copy.
Another aspect that could affect the cost of a replacement car key is the model of car. Basic keys and older cars are less expensive to replace, however 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 can also affect the cost of a new car key. You could be charged more to tow your car to the nearest dealership if you lose your keys in an area unknown. You can avoid this expense by keeping an extra key in a secure location, such as your home or the office.
It is also important to remember that the majority of the time the new car key must be programmed at the dealer. This is because most main dealers do not have mobile key programming facilities and are able to do this 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 best to be proactive and keep a spare set with you at all times.
Cost of replacement keys
You may have to purchase replacement keys from an automotive locksmith or a dealer, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Before you do, check the type of key in your vehicle and whether it is equipped with a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can raise your car key replacement cost.
A typical car that does not have a keyfob can be cheap and can be duplicated in a local hardware shop for less than $25. It's a good idea to have a backup in the event that you lose your original.
Most recent cars come with the key fob that emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your vehicle. This can be a huge hassle to replace in the event that it gets lost, since you'll need to contact the car manufacturer for a new key and have it paired with your vehicle. The cost of a replacement key fob ranges from $50 to $125.
In some cases you can get a key fob replaced at the dealership as long as you can prove ownership by proving registration or title. However, the dealer might still charge an extra fee for the service to cover travel expenses and time spent in a remote location. You can also buy an aftermarket car key online, or directly from the manufacturer. This is a cheaper option, but it is also more risky as the quality of the keys can't be guaranteed.
Never try to get into your car with wire hangers or force. This could raise alarms and make it more difficult for a locksmith to unlock the door. This could also cause damage to the lock, which will result in cost-intensive repairs or replacements. If you can locate your car keys, it could be worth paying more to have them copied by an auto expert rather than at the dealership. This could save you a lot of cash, particularly if have an extra key at home.