The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
It can be frustrating 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 buying a new car key is determined by a variety of aspects, including the kind of replacement key you need and your location. Keys that are traditional are the cheapest and the smart keys are more expensive.
Cost of Parts
Depending on what type of key you need the price will depend on the type of key you require, the cost can vary. Keys that are standard and do not have transponder chips are available for copying between $50 and $110. The cost increases when you require an ignition key equipped with a transponder chip or a push-to start vehicle that requires a second fob to turn on the car. Keys with transponder chips are expensive to duplicate and replace, and are more difficult to steal.
The year and make of your car can also impact the price. The latest models may have transponder chips that need to be paired with the car by an auto locksmith or dealer. That means that the spare key needs to be programmed with the car, which can add up to $200. Other factors that affect the cost of replacement keys are:
Auto locksmiths might be the most expensive however, they don't have the equipment to handle advanced key fobs or vehicles. If you don't have the appropriate tools, it can be difficult to copy an ordinary key at the hardware store. You can also call roadside assistance for a new key. However, they'll transport your vehicle to a dealer, and the process may take several days.
If you own a newer key fob, the best way to reduce your costs is to purchase all-in one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. However, this is becoming more and more difficult since key fobs are often equipped with security features that prevent theft. Many companies have software that can be used to make keys, but they are usually only available to those with service contracts or as a courtesy from the dealership. Trying to bypass these restrictions can lead to problems, as most locksmiths will not allow cars to be opened if they are forced or altered with. Insurance companies will be notified if you make use of wire hangers to open your vehicle.
Cost of Labor
The cost of replacing a car key will be contingent on the kind you require. For less than $10, a conventional double-edged key can be duplicated at an area hardware store. To program and create more advanced keys, you will need special equipment. This can add significantly to the total cost of replacing the car key.
You'll also require a new key fob if the vehicle has one to unlock it and start it. The cost could be anywhere from to $200 depending on the model and make. Furthermore, many of the newer models also include a transponder in the key that needs to be replaced and programmed in order to work correctly. This is a price that is hard to estimate before the key is lost and needs to be replaced.
A cutting machine that is specialized is also required to make the new key replacement. They can be costly to purchase and are not easily accessible for people without an auto mechanic's shop. The key housing must also be replaced, which can increase the cost of a replacement key.
Depending on the kind of car key, you may need to buy additional replacement parts in addition to. For instance, some key fobs come with features such as panic buttons and remote lock/unlock which can increase the total cost. Some key fobs also require a battery, which can be expensive to replace.
It is best to make a spare car key before you lose the one you have. This will ease the stress that comes with losing your keys and will ensure that you always have a functional backup. If you need a replacement car key, find a locksmith or dealer that has the right equipment to work on your car. It will cost less than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer and you can avoid the high fees that come with this method.
If you own a key that requires programming, it's important to have a record of the immobilizer code, or the key number in case you need to be able to reprogramme it later. This information is normally found on your title or registration and is available to a locksmith or auto dealer for a small fee.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars come with key fobs that can lock, unlock, and even start the car with just one button. These devices can be extremely convenient, but expensive to replace when they are lost or damaged. Luckily, locksmiths can often save you money by replacing these types of keys, without the expense of replacing the device itself. There are several factors to consider when determining the price of the replacement of a car key.
The year, the make and model of the vehicle.
There are a variety of car keys, from simple laser cut keys to switchblade keys. These keys are difficult to duplicate due to being distinct. This is especially the case for modern car keys, with transponders which need to be programmed to the vehicle. This can be done by a professional, however it will cost more than a regular key copy.
The type of vehicle can also affect the cost. Keys for older cars and simple models are less expensive to replace, however the most advanced cars will generally require a specific device to start the car, which could cost as much as $500 to replace.
The key type and location of the vehicle could affect the cost of a replacement car key. It could cost you more to tow your car to the nearest dealer if you lose your keys in a place in a foreign location. You can save this cost by keeping keys in a secure location like your home or in the office.
It is also important to know that, most of the time keys for new cars must be programmed at the dealer. This is because the majority of dealers do not have mobile key programming facilities and can only do it in their workshop. It could be costly in the event that you lose your primary set of keys. It's advisable to keep a spare set with you.
Cost of replacing keys
You might need to purchase replacement keys from an automotive locksmith or a dealer, depending on the make and models of your vehicle. Before you do this, make sure to check your vehicle's key type and whether it is equipped with a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies could increase the cost of your vehicle key replacement.
A traditional car key without key fobs is cheap and can typically be duplicated at the local hardware store for under $25. It is recommended to have an extra in the event that you lose the original.
replacement keys car come with the key fob that emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your vehicle. It can be a challenge to replace when it's lost and you'll have to contact the manufacturer to obtain the new one and connect it with your car. The cost of an alternative key fob ranges from $50 to $125.
In certain instances you can get a key fob repaired at the dealership as long as you show proof of ownership using registration or title. However, the dealer might charge an additional fee for the service to cover travel expenses and time spent in remote locations. You can also buy an aftermarket car key online, or directly from the manufacturer. This is a cheaper option but it's more risky due to the fact that the quality of the keys can't 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 open your car door. This could also damage the lock and lead to additional costs for a full repair or replacement. If you are able to locate your car keys, it might be worth the extra expense to get them cloned at an auto repair shop instead of the dealership. This could save you lots of cash, particularly if have an extra key at home.