The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
Losing your car keys could be a stressful experience. It's important to keep in mind that a replacement key may not be as expensive as you think.
The cost of a replacement for a car key depends on several aspects, including the type of key you require and the location of your home. Keys made of traditional design are the least expensive, while smart keys are the most costly.
Cost of Parts
Depending on the type of key you require the price will depend on the type of key you require, the cost can vary. Keys with transponder chips that are standard are available for $50 to $110. If you require the keyfob to be chipped or a push to start vehicle that requires a second fob the price will increase. The keys are costly to duplicate and replace, and are more difficult to steal.
The year, make and model of your vehicle will also affect the cost. The transponder chip in newer vehicles will have 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. Other factors that influence the cost of replacement keys include:
Auto locksmiths are the least expensive option, but they do not have all the equipment required to deal with more advanced key fobs and vehicles. You can try to copy a basic key by yourself in a hardware shop, however, the process takes a long time and difficult when you don't have the right tools. You can also use roadside assistance to assist you obtain a new key however, they'll likely tow your car to a dealer and the process could take several days to complete.
If you own a more recent key fob, the best way to cut costs is to purchase all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. But this is becoming more difficult since key fobs are often equipped with security features to guard against theft. Many companies offer software to create keys. However, they are only available as an option to customers who have service contracts. In attempting to circumvent these restrictions could cause problems, since locksmiths generally do not open vehicles that are forced or altered with. If you are able to use wire hangers or some other method to open the car, that will also raise red flags for insurance providers.
Cost of Labor
The cost of replacing the car key will vary on the kind you require. A traditional double-edged car key can usually be duplicated at a local hardware store for less than $10. To program and create more sophisticated keys, you'll require special machines. This can add significantly to the total cost of replacing the car key.
You'll also need a brand new key fob if the vehicle is equipped with one to start and unlock it. This can run up to $200, based on the model and make of your vehicle. A lot of newer cars have transponders in the keys that must be programmed and replaced in order to function properly. This is a price that is difficult to estimate before the key is lost and has to be replaced.
To make a new replacement key, a specialized cutting machine will also be required. These can be expensive to purchase and aren't easily accessible for people without an auto mechanic's shop. Furthermore, the key's housing is also required to be replaced and this can increase the overall costs of making an replacement car key.
Based on the type of car key you have, you may need to buy other replacement parts too. For instance, certain key fobs come with features such as remote lock/unlock and panic buttons that can add to the overall costs. Furthermore, certain key fobs require batteries that can be quite pricey to replace.
It is advisable to create a spare key before you lose your original. This will reduce the stress of losing your keys and will ensure that you always have a functional backup. If you do end up needing a new key, you should try to find a locksmith or a car dealer with the right equipment to work with your vehicle. This will be less expensive than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer and you can avoid the cost-intensive fees associated when you choose this option.
It is important to keep an inventory of your immobilizer code as well as your key number if you need to reprogramme a key. This information is usually located on your title or registration and is available to an auto dealer or locksmith for a small fee.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars come with key fobs that are able to lock or unlock and even start the car with just the button. These devices can be extremely convenient, but expensive to replace if they become damaged or lost. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace these keys without having to replace the device. However, there are several factors to consider when it comes to the cost of replacing a car key.
The year, make and model of the vehicle
There are numerous kinds of car keys, ranging from laser-cut keys to switchblades. These key types are very distinct and are difficult to duplicate. This is especially the case for modern car keys which have transponders in them which need to be programmed to the vehicle. This can be done by a professional, but will cost more than a regular key copy.
Another factor that can affect the cost of a replacement car key is the type of car. Keys for older cars and simple models are more affordable to replace, but the most modern cars typically require a separate device to start the car, which could cost up to $500 to replace.
The type of key and the location of the car can also affect the cost of a new key. If you lose your keys in a foreign area, you could be charged more to take your vehicle to the nearest dealer to get a new key programmed. You can cut down on this expense by keeping an extra key in a secure location in your home, like at work or in the office.
It is also important to remember that, most times keys for new cars is programmed by the dealer. This is due to the fact that the majority of dealers do not provide mobile key programming and can only offer this service in their workshop. It could be costly if you lose your only set of keys. So, it's better to keep a spare set with you.
Cost of Replacement Keys
You might need to purchase new keys from an automotive locksmith or a dealer, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Before you do this, make sure to check your vehicle's key type and if it comes with a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can raise the cost of your vehicle key replacement .
A traditional car key without a key fob is relatively cheap and can typically be duplicated at an hardware store in your area for under $25. It's best to have an extra in case you lose your original.
Most recent cars come with the key fob that emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your car. It's a hassle to replace if you lose it, as you'll need to contact the manufacturer for a new one and pair it with your car. The cost of a replacement key fob ranges between $50 and $125.
In some cases you can replace a keyfob at a dealer if you provide evidence of ownership, such as an official registration or a title. Dealers might charge an additional fee to cover the cost of travel and the time spent in a remote location. You can also purchase an aftermarket key online or even directly from the vehicle manufacturer. This option is cheaper but may be a bit more risky as the quality of the keys cannot be guaranteed.
Don't attempt to get into your car with wire hangers or force. This could raise alarms and make it harder for locksmiths to open the door. This could also cause damage to the lock and lead to cost-plus charges for a full repair or replacement. If you can find the car keys, it might be worth paying more to have them cloned by an auto technician rather than the dealership. This could help you save money, especially in the event that you have a spare car key at home.