The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
It can be a hassle to lose your car keys. It's important to keep in mind that a replacement key might not be as expensive as you think.
The cost of a new car key is determined by a variety of factors, including the type of replacement key you require 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 what type of key you need the price can differ. Keys that are standard and do not have transponder chips are available for $50 to $110. The price increases if you need a key fob equipped with a transponder chip or a vehicle with a push-to-start feature that requires an extra fob to turn on the car. Those types of keys can be costly to duplicate or replace, and are difficult for car thieves to break into.
The year, make and model of your car can also affect the cost. The transponder chip on newer cars will need to be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that a replacement key will need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle which can cost as much as $200. The cost of replacing keys can also be affected by:
Auto locksmiths might be the most affordable however, they don't have the equipment to handle advanced key fobs or vehicles. You can attempt to duplicate a basic key at a hardware store however, the process can be time-consuming and may be a challenge when you don't have the right tools. You can also use roadside assistance to help get a replacement key, but they will likely transport your vehicle to a dealership, and the process could take days to complete.
If you have a newer key fob, the most efficient way to reduce your costs is to buy all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. But this is becoming more difficult because key fobs are often equipped with security features to prevent theft. Many companies have software programs that can be used to create keys, but these are typically only available to customers with service contracts or as a courtesy through the dealership. Locksmiths aren't likely to open vehicles that have been forced to open or altered. Insurance companies will be notified if you employ wire hangers to open your car.
Cost of Labor
The type 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 sophisticated keys require specialized equipment to create and program. This can add significantly to the cost of replacing the car key.
If your vehicle has a key fob to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll need to install a new fob in addition. The cost could be anywhere from to $200 based on the vehicle's make and model. Furthermore, many of the newer models also have a transponder chip inside the key that needs to be replaced and programmed in order to work properly. This is an additional expense that is hard to estimate until the key is lost and must be replaced.
To create a new replacement key, a specialized cutting machine will also be required. They can be costly to purchase and not readily available to those who do not have access to a mechanic's workshop. The key housing must also be replaced, which may increase the cost of replacing a key.
Depending on the type of car key it is possible that you will need to purchase additional replacement parts. For example, some key fobs come with features such as remote lock/unlock and panic buttons which can increase the overall costs. Some key fobs also require a battery which can be costly to replace.
It is recommended to make a spare key before you lose your primary. This will help you avoid the anxiety of losing your keys and ensure that you have a backup. If you need an additional key, you should look for a locksmith or a car dealer equipped to work with your vehicle. This is less expensive than getting a new one from the dealership and should enable you to avoid the high fees associated with those options.
If you own a key that requires programming, it's important to keep a record of your immobilizer code, or the key number in case you have to get it reprogrammed in the future. This information is available on your registration or title, or on other documents. A locksmith or auto dealer may charge a fee for providing this information.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars have key fobs that lock, unlock and start the vehicle with just a button. These devices are extremely convenient, but they can also be costly to replace if lost or broken. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace keys without having to replace the device. There are many factors to consider when determining the cost of the replacement of a car key.
The year, make & model of the vehicle.
There are many different types of keys for cars, starting with basic laser cut keys to switchesblade keys. Keys of this kind are distinct and are difficult to duplicate. This is especially true for modern car keys, with transponders that require programming to the vehicle. G28CarKeys can be accomplished by a professional, however it will cost more than a standard 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 more affordable to replace, however the most advanced cars will typically require a special device to start the car, and can cost as much as $500 to replace.
The key type and location of the vehicle can also influence the cost of a replacement key. You may be charged more to tow your vehicle to the nearest dealership if you lose your keys in an area in a foreign location. This cost can be avoided by keeping an extra key in a safe location such as at home or work.
It is also important to remember that, most times, a new car key has to be programmed by a dealer. This is because most main dealers do not have mobile key programming facilities and can only do it in their workshop. This could be a huge expense in the case of losing your car's only set of keys, which is why it's better to take preventative measures and keep a spare with you at all times.
Cost of replacement keys
You may have to purchase replacement keys from an automotive locksmith or dealer, depending on the make and models of your vehicle. Before you do, check the type of your car's keys and whether it has a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can raise the price of your car key replacement.
A classic car that does not have a keyfob can be affordable and can be duplicated in a local hardware shop for less than $25. It's a good idea to keep a backup in the event that you lose your original.
More recent cars have keys that emit an electronic signal to unlock and start the car. It's a hassle to replace if you lose it in the event that you lose it, since you'll need to contact the manufacturer to obtain a new one and pair it with your car. The cost of a standard replacement key fob can be anywhere from $50 to $150.
In some cases you may be able to have your key fob replaced at the dealership as long as you prove ownership by proving registration or title. However, the dealer may charge an additional fee for the service to cover travel costs and time spent in an unreachable location. You can also buy an aftermarket car key online or directly from the manufacturer. This may be less expensive, but it is also more risky due to the fact that the quality of the keys can't be assured.
Do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle using wire hangers or force, because this could raise red flags and make it difficult for an expert locksmith to open the door of your car. This could also result in damage to the lock, which would cause cost-intensive repairs or replacements. If you are able to locate the car keys, it might be worth paying more to have them duplicated by an auto specialist rather than at the dealership. This could save you money, especially when you have a spare car key at home.