The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
It can be very 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 purchasing a new car key is determined by a variety of factors including the type of replacement key you need and your location. The traditional keys are the cheapest while the smart keys are more expensive.
Cost of parts
The cost will vary depending on the type of key that you need. Keys with transponder chips that are standard are available for $50 to $110. The price increases when you require a key fob equipped with a transponder chip or a push-to start vehicle which requires an additional fob to activate the car. These keys are expensive to duplicate and replace, and harder to steal.
The cost is also affected by the year, make and type of car you own. Newer vehicles may come with transponder chips that need to be linked to the car by a dealer or auto locksmith. This means that keys that are replaced will need to be programmed to function with the vehicle, which could cost as much as $200. The cost of replacing keys can also be affected by:
Auto locksmiths are the most affordable alternative, but they don't have all the equipment needed to handle more sophisticated key fobs or vehicles. If you don't have the right tools, it may be difficult to duplicate an ordinary key at a hardware shop. You can also call roadside assistance to request a replacement key. However, they will take your vehicle to a dealer, and the process can take a few days.
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. However, this is becoming more and more difficult since key fobs are often equipped with security features to guard against theft. Numerous companies offer software to make keys. However, these are only available as a service to customers who have service contracts. If you try to get around these restrictions, it can cause problems as most locksmiths will not open vehicles that are forced or altered with. Insurance providers will be alerted if you use wire hangers to open your vehicle.
Cost of Labor
The kind of car key you need will determine how much it will cost to replace. For less than $10, a traditional double-edged key can be duplicated at a local hardware shop. To program and make more advanced keys, you'll need special equipment. This can dramatically increase the cost of replacing your car keys.
You'll also require a new key fob in case your vehicle is equipped with one to start and unlock it. This can run up to $200, based on the make and model of your vehicle. Furthermore, many of the newer models also include a transponder in the key that needs to be replaced and programmed to function correctly. This is a price that is difficult to estimate prior to the time that the key is lost and has to be replaced.
A specialized cutting machine is also required for the creation of the new replacement key. These can be expensive to purchase and aren't accessible to people who don't have access to a mechanic's workshop. Additionally, car key replacement cost must be replaced as well and this can increase the total cost of a replacement car key.
Depending on the kind of car key you have, you might need to purchase other replacement parts too. For instance, certain key fobs have features such as remote lock/unlock and panic buttons which can increase the overall costs. Furthermore, certain key fobs need a battery that can be costly to replace.
It is recommended to create a spare car key prior to the time you lose the one you have. This will ease the stress of losing your keys, and ensure you have another backup. If you do end up needing a new key, seek out an auto dealer or locksmith that has the proper equipment to work with your vehicle. This is less expensive than getting a new one from a dealership and will allow you to save some of the costly cost associated with those alternatives.
It's important to keep the immobilizer code and key number in case you need to reprogramme a key. This information is available on your registration and title or any other document. A locksmith or auto dealer will charge a fee for providing this information.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars have key fobs that are able to lock, unlock, and even start the car just by pressing the button. These devices are extremely convenient, however they can be costly to replace if damaged or lost. However, locksmiths are able to save you money by replacing these types of keys, without the expense of replacing the device itself. However, there are several factors to consider when determining the cost of replacing a car key.
The Year, Make and Model of the Vehicle
There are many different types of car keys, starting with basic laser cut keys to switchesblade keys. Keys of this kind are distinct, and they are difficult to duplicate. This is particularly relevant for modern car key transponders that must be programmed into the vehicle. This process can be done by a specialist, but it is generally more expensive than a simple key copy.
Another factor that can affect the cost of a replacement car key is the type of car. Older cars and basic keys are less expensive to replace, but the most sophisticated cars will typically require a special device to start the car, and can cost up to $500 to replace.
The type of key and the location of the car may also affect the cost of a new key. If you lose your keys in a foreign area, you could be charged a higher fee for towing your car to the nearest dealership to have a new key programmed. You can cut down on this expense by keeping a spare key in a safe location, such as your home or in the office.
It is also important to know that, most of the time, a new car key must be programmed at the dealer. It is because the majority of major dealers do not offer mobile key programming and only do this in their workshop. It can be costly when you lose your sole set of keys. Therefore, it's best to keep a spare set on you.
Cost of replacement keys
Depending on the make and model of your car You may need to purchase replacement keys from an auto dealer or locksmith. Check the key of your car to determine if it's an electronic transponder or smart key chip. These technologies can increase the cost of replacing your car's keys.
A typical car key that is not key fobs is inexpensive and can usually be duplicated at an hardware store in your area for under $25. It's a good idea to have a backup just in case you lose the original.
Modern cars have keys that emit an electronic signal to unlock and start the vehicle. This can be a huge problem to replace in the event of it being lost, as you will have to contact your manufacturer of the car for a new key and pair it with your vehicle. The cost of an alternative key fob ranges from $50 to $125.
In some instances, you may be able to replace a keyfob at the dealer if you provide evidence of ownership, like an official registration or a title. However, the dealer could charge an additional fee for the service to cover travel expenses and time spent on a remote location. You can also buy an aftermarket car key online, or directly from the manufacturer. This option is cheaper however it is more risky because the quality of these keys cannot be assured.
It is not advisable to gain entry into your vehicle using wire hangers or force, because this could trigger alarms and make it difficult for an expert locksmith to open your car door. This could also cause damage to the lock and lead to additional costs for a full repair or replacement. If you are able to locate your car keys, it could be worth the extra cost to have them copied by an auto repair shop instead of at the dealership. This could help you save money, especially if there is a spare car key at home.