The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
Losing your car keys can be a frustrating experience. It is important to keep in mind that a replacement car key might not cost more than you think.
The cost of purchasing a new car key is determined by several aspects, including the kind of replacement key you need and the location of your home. The traditional keys are the cheapest and the smart keys are more expensive.
Cost of parts
Depending on what kind of key you require the price will vary. Standard keys without transponder chips are priced between $50 and $110. The cost increases if you need keys with a transponder chip, or a push-to-start vehicle that requires a second fob to turn on the car. The keys are costly to duplicate and replace, and they are also more difficult to steal.
car replacement key can also be affected by the year, make and type of car you have. The transponder chip that is used in newer cars will need to be paired with an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that the replacement key needs to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle and could cost as much as $200. The cost of replacement keys is also affected by:
Auto locksmiths may be the cheapest however, they don't have the equipment needed to handle complex key fobs or vehicles. If you don't have the appropriate tools, it may be difficult to copy an ordinary key at a hardware shop. You can also seek roadside assistance to help you find a replacement key, but they will likely transport your vehicle to a dealership and the process could take days to complete.
If you have an older key fob, it is best to buy laser-cut all-in-one keys and program them by yourself. This is becoming more difficult, as many key fobs have security features that stop theft. Many companies offer software programs to design keys. However, they are only an option for customers with service contracts. Most locksmiths will not open vehicles that have had their locks forced or tampered. Insurance providers will be alerted if you employ wire hangers to open your vehicle.
Cost of Labor
The cost of replacing a car key will be contingent on the type of key you require. For less than $10, a conventional double-edged key can be duplicated at the local hardware store. However, more advanced keys require specialized equipment to design and manufacture. This can significantly increase the cost of replacing your car key.
You'll also need a new key fob if your car uses one to unlock and start it. The cost can be up to $200 based on the make and model. A lot of newer cars have transponders in the keys which must be programmed and replaced in order to work correctly. This is a cost that is hard to estimate until the key actually is lost and must be replaced.
To make a new replacement key, a specially-designed cutting machine is required. These can be expensive to purchase and aren't accessible to people who don't have a mechanic's shop. In addition, the housing of the key is also required to be replaced, which can add to the overall cost of the replacement key for your car.
Depending on the type of car key it is possible that you will need to purchase other replacement parts. For instance, certain key fobs have features such as panic and remote lock/unlock buttons which can increase the total cost. Furthermore, certain key fobs need a battery which can be expensive to replace.
It is best to create a spare key before you lose your primary. This will help you avoid the stress of losing your keys, and ensure that you have another backup. If you do need a new key, look for an auto dealer or locksmith equipped to work with your vehicle. This is less expensive than buying a new key from a dealer and will save you the fees that are high with this method.
It's important to keep an inventory of your immobilizer code and the key number in case you need to reprogramme a key. This information is available on your registration, title or other documents. A locksmith or auto dealer may charge a fee for providing this information.
Cost of Equipment
Modern automobiles have key fobs that lock, unlock, and start the vehicle by simply pressing one button. These devices are extremely convenient, however they can also be expensive to replace if they are damaged or lost. Luckily, locksmiths can often save you money by replacing these types of keys, without the expense of replacing the device itself. There are a few factors to consider when the cost of replacing a car key.
The year, make and model of the vehicle.
There are numerous kinds of keys for cars, from laser-cut keys to switchblades. These key types are very distinct, and they can be difficult to duplicate. This is particularly relevant for modern car key transponders that need to be programmed into the vehicle. This process can be done by a specialist, but it will generally cost more than a simple key copy.
The type of vehicle can influence the cost. Keys for older cars and simple models are cheaper to replace, however the most modern cars typically require a special device to start the car, which could cost up to $500 to replace.
The type of key and the location of the vehicle can affect the cost of a replacement car key. You could be charged more to tow your vehicle to the nearest dealer if you lose your keys somewhere unfamiliar. This expense can be avoided by keeping an extra key in a safe location like at home or at work.
It is also important to know that most times the new car key is programmed by the dealer. This is due to the fact that the majority of dealers do not offer mobile key programming and can only offer this service in their workshop. This can be a big expense in the case of losing your only set of car keys, so it is recommended to be proactive and keep a spare with you at all times.
Cost of Replacement Keys
Based on the make and model of your car depending on the make and model of your car, you may have to purchase replacement keys from a dealer or an automotive locksmith. Examine the key in your vehicle to see if it has a smart key or transponder chip. These technologies could increase the price of your car key replacement.
A classic car that doesn't have a keyfob is cheap and can be duplicated at a local hardware shop for less than $25. It's always a good idea to have a backup in the event that you lose your original.
More recent cars have a key fob that emits an electronic signal to unlock and start the vehicle. This could be a big problem to replace in the event that it is lost, since you'll have to contact your car manufacturer for a new key and then pair it with your vehicle. The cost of a replacement key fob ranges from $50 to $125.
In some cases you can change a keyfob in the dealership if you can provide evidence of ownership, like the registration or title. However, the dealer could still charge an extra fee for the service to cover travel expenses and time spent at a remote location. Alternatively, you can buy an aftermarket key on the internet or even directly from the manufacturer. This is a cheaper option, but it is also more risky because the quality of the keys can't be assured.
You should never attempt to break into your car with the use of wire hangers or even force, as this could trigger alarms and make it difficult for an expert locksmith to open your car door. It could also damage the lock and result in additional charges for a complete repair or replacement. If you can locate your car keys, it may be worth the extra money to have them copied by an auto specialist instead of at the dealership. This can save you money, especially if there is a spare car key at home.