The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
It can be frustrating to lose your car keys. It's important to realize that a replacement key may not be as costly as you think.
The cost of replacing a car key depends on several factors, including the kind of key you need and your location. Keys made of traditional design are the cheapest, while smart keys are the most expensive.
Cost of Parts
Depending on the type of key you need the price can vary. Keys that are standard and do not have transponder chips are priced between $50 and $110. If you need a keyfob with a chip or a push-to-start vehicle that requires a second fob the price will increase. These keys are expensive to duplicate and replace, and they are also more difficult to steal.
The cost will also be affected by the year, make and type of car you own. The transponder chip on newer vehicles will need to be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that a spare key will have to be programmed to work with the car. This could cost up to $200. Other factors that influence the cost of replacement keys include:
Auto locksmiths may be the cheapest, but they lack the tools needed to deal with advanced key fobs or vehicles. You can copy the basic key yourself in a hardware shop, but the process is time-consuming and difficult when you don't have the proper tools. You can also use roadside assistance to help find a replacement key however, they'll likely tow your car to a dealer and the process could take days to complete.
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. But this is becoming more and more difficult as the majority of key fobs come with security features to prevent theft. Many companies offer software programs to design keys. However, they are only a service to customers who have service contracts. Most locksmiths will not allow cars to be opened if they've locked locks that have been forced or altered. If you're able employ wire hangers or a different method to open the car it will raise red flags for insurance companies.
Cost of Labor
The cost of replacing a car key will depend on the kind you require. For less than $10, a traditional double-edged key can be duplicated in the local hardware store. To program and make more advanced keys, you'll need special equipment. This can dramatically increase the cost of replacing your car key.
If vehicle key replacement has a key fob to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll need to install a new key fob also. This can run up to $200, based on the model and make of your vehicle. In addition, many modern vehicles also have a transponder chip inside the key that needs to be replaced and programmed to work properly. This is an additional cost that is hard to estimate until the key is lost and must be replaced.
A cutting machine with specialized capabilities is also required to create the new replacement key. They can be costly to purchase and are not easily accessible for people without access to a mechanic's workshop. The key housing must also be replaced, which can increase the cost of replacing a key.
Depending on the type of car key, you might need to purchase other replacement parts too. For example, some key fobs come with features such as panic buttons and remote lock/unlock which can increase the overall cost. Additionally, some key fobs need a battery that can be quite pricey to replace.
It is advisable to create an additional key prior to the time you lose your original. This will reduce the stress that comes with losing keys and ensure that you always have a working backup. If you do need an additional key, you should try to find a locksmith or car dealer with the right equipment to work with your car. This will be less expensive than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer, and you will avoid the high fees that come when you choose this option.
If you have an ignition key that requires programming, it's essential to keep a record of the immobilizer code or the key number in case you have to be able to reprogramme it later. This information is typically located on your title or registration and can be provided to a locksmith or auto dealer for a small 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 costly to replace if they are damaged or lost. Luckily, locksmiths can often save you money by replacing these types of keys without the added expense of replacing the device itself. There are a variety of factors to consider when determining the cost of the replacement of a car key.
The Year, Make & Model of the vehicle
There are a variety of keys for cars, ranging from basic, laser cut keys to switchblade keys. They are extremely difficult to duplicate since they are unique. This is particularly relevant for modern car key transponders that need to be programmed into the vehicle. This procedure can be completed by a professional, however it generally costs more than a copy of the keys.
The model of the vehicle will influence the cost. Cars with basic keys cost less to replace. However, the most advanced cars require a special key that can cost as much as $500 to replace.
The type of key and the location of the car could also affect the cost of a new key. You could be charged more to tow your vehicle to the nearest dealership in case you lose your keys somewhere unfamiliar. You can cut down on this expense by keeping a spare key in a secure location in your home, like at work or office.
It is also important to remember that most times the new car key has to be programmed by a dealer. This is because the majority of dealers don't offer mobile key programming services and are able to do this 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 of keys with you.
Cost of Key Replacement
You may have to purchase replacement keys from an auto locksmith or a dealer depending on the make and models of your vehicle. Examine the key in your vehicle to determine if it is equipped with an electronic transponder or smart key chip. These technologies can raise the cost of your car key replacement.
A typical car key that is not key fobs is cheap and can typically be duplicated at the local hardware store for less than $25. It is recommended to keep another spare in the event that you lose the original.
The majority of new cars have the key fob that emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your car. This could be a big issue to replace in the event that it is lost, as you will have to contact the car manufacturer for a new key and then pair it with your vehicle. The cost of a typical replacement key fob can be anywhere from $50 to $150.
In certain cases you may be able to have your key fob replaced at the dealership as long as you can prove ownership with proof of registration or title. Dealers might charge an additional fee to cover travel costs and time spent in an unreachable location. Alternatively, you can buy an aftermarket key online or even directly from the vehicle manufacturer. This option may be cheaper but it's more risky because the quality of the keys can't be guaranteed.
Never try to hack into your car using wire hangers or force. This could raise alarms and make it more difficult for locksmiths to open the door. This could also damage the lock, which could cause more expensive repairs or replacements. If you can locate your car keys, it could be worth the extra expense to have them copied by an auto expert instead of at the dealership. This can help you save money, especially if there is an extra car key in your home.