The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
Losing your car keys could be a frustrating experience. It's important to keep in mind that a replacement key may not be as costly as you think.
The cost of buying a new car key is determined by a variety of factors including the type of replacement key you require and the location of your home. Keys that are traditional are the cheapest, while smart keys are the most costly.
Cost of Parts
The cost will differ based on the type of key that you require. Standard keys that have no transponder chips can be copied for between $50 and $110. The price increases for those who require keys with a transponder chip, or a vehicle with a push-to-start feature that requires a second fob to turn on the car. Those types of keys are costly to duplicate or replace, and are more difficult for thieves to break into.
The year and make of your vehicle will also impact the cost. The transponder chip in newer vehicles will have to be programmed by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that a spare key will have to be programmed with the car. This can add up to $200. The cost of replacing keys can also be affected by:
Auto locksmiths may be the cheapest however, they don't have the equipment needed to handle complex key fobs or vehicles. You can attempt to duplicate a basic key by yourself in a hardware shop, but the process is time-consuming and may be a challenge when you don't have the appropriate tools. You can also call roadside assistance for a replacement key. However, they'll take your vehicle to a dealer and the process could take a few days.
If you have an older key fob, it's best to buy laser-cut all-in-one keys and program them by yourself. This is becoming increasingly difficult as a lot of key fobs come with security features that can prevent theft. Numerous companies offer software to design keys. However, they are only a service to customers with service contracts. If you try to get around these restrictions, it could cause problems, since locksmiths generally do not allow cars to be opened if they are forced or altered with. If you are able to use wire hangers or another method of opening the car it will signal red flags to insurance providers.
Cost of Labor
The cost of replacing a car key will depend on the type you need. For less than $10, a standard double-edged key can be duplicated in an area hardware store. However, more sophisticated keys require special equipment to create and program. This can dramatically increase the cost of replacing your car key.
You'll also require a new key fob if your vehicle has one to start and unlock it. This can run up to $200, based on the make and model of your vehicle. In addition, many modern vehicles also include a transponder in the key that has to be replaced and programmed in order to work correctly. This is a cost that is hard to estimate until the key actually is lost and requires to be replaced.
To create a new replacement key, a special cutting machine will also be required. They can be costly to purchase and are not readily available to those who do not have an auto mechanic's shop. The key housing also needs to be replaced, which can increase the cost of a replacement key.
Depending on the kind of car key you have, you may need to buy other replacement parts as well. Certain key fobs, as an example, have features like remote lock/unlock or panic buttons that can increase the overall cost. Additionally, some key fobs require a battery which can be expensive to replace.
It is advisable to create an extra key before you lose your original. This will allow you to avoid the stress of losing your keys and ensure you have another backup. If you need an additional key, you should seek out a locksmith or a car dealer equipped to work with your car. car key replacement will be cheaper than buying a new key from a dealership and will allow you to avoid the high cost associated with those alternatives.
It is important to keep a record of your immobilizer code as well as your key number if you need to reprogramme your key. This information is typically found on your registration or title and is available to a locksmith or auto dealer for a fee.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars have key fobs which can lock, unlock and start the vehicle by pressing a button. These devices are extremely convenient, however they can also be expensive to replace if they are lost or broken. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace these keys without having to replace the device. However, there are many factors to consider when it comes to determining the cost of a replacement car key.
The year, make & model of the vehicle
There are many different types of keys for cars, ranging starting with basic laser cut keys to switchesblade keys. They are extremely difficult to duplicate since they are distinct. This is particularly the case for modern car keys transponders, which must be programmed into the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, but will cost more than a standard key copy.
The type of vehicle can also affect the cost. Older cars and basic keys are more affordable to replace, however the most advanced cars will typically require a special device to start the car, and can cost up to $500 to replace.
The type of key and the location of the car may influence the cost of a new car key. If you lose your keys in an unfamiliar area, you may be charged a higher fee for towing your car to the nearest dealer to have a new one programmed. You can avoid this expense by keeping a spare key in a secure location, such as your home or in the office.
It is important to note that keys that are new will most likely need to be programmed by the dealer. This is due to the fact that most major dealers don't have mobile key programming facilities and are able to do this in their workshop. It could be costly when you lose your sole set of keys. Therefore, it's best to keep a spare set on you.
Cost of Key Replacement
You may need to buy new keys from an automotive locksmith or a dealer depending on the model and make of your vehicle. Before you do, check the type of your car's keys and if it comes with a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can increase the cost of your vehicle key replacement.
A typical car key that is not key fobs is inexpensive and can usually be duplicated at an hardware store in your area for less than $25. It's a good idea have a backup in case you lose the original.
Most modern cars come with the key fob that emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your car. It can be a hassle to replace in the event of a loss and you'll have to contact the manufacturer for the new one and connect it with your car. The cost of a replacement key fob ranges between $50 and $125.
In certain cases, you can have a key fob repaired at the dealership as long as you prove ownership by proving registration or title. However, the dealer might charge an additional fee for the service to cover travel costs and time spent on a remote location. You can also purchase an aftermarket key online, or even directly from the manufacturer. This option is cheaper but it could be more risky as the quality of these keys can't be assured.
It is not advisable to break into your vehicle using wire hangers or even force, as this could cause alarms and make it difficult for a professional locksmith to open your car door. This could also cause damage to the lock, which could result in cost-plus charges for a full repair or replacement. If you're able to locate your car keys, it may be worth the extra cost to get them cloned at an auto expert instead of the dealership. This can save you a lot of money, particularly if you have a spare key at home.