The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
The loss of your car keys can be a frustrating experience. It's important to realize that a replacement key may not be as costly as you think.
The cost of a replacement for a car key is contingent on a variety of aspects, including the type of key you require and the location of your home. The traditional keys are the most affordable and the smart keys are more expensive.
Cost of Parts
Based on the kind of key you require the price can vary. Standard keys that have no transponder chips are available for copying between $50 and $110. If you need the keyfob to be chipped or a push-to-start vehicle that requires a second fob, the cost will rise. Keys with these types of features can be costly to duplicate or replace, and are difficult for car thieves to gain access to.
The cost is also affected by the year, model and year of vehicle you own. Newer vehicles may come with transponder chips that need to be linked to the car by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that the spare key needs to be programmed to work with the car. This could cost as much as $200. Other factors that affect the cost of replacement keys are:
Auto locksmiths may be the most expensive however they do not have the equipment to handle advanced key fobs or vehicles. You can attempt to duplicate the basic key yourself at a hardware store however, the process takes a long time and may be a challenge if you do not have the proper tools. You can also seek roadside assistance to help you obtain a new key but they'll probably transport your vehicle to a dealer and the process could take days to complete.
If you own a more recent key fob, the most efficient way to reduce your costs is to buy all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. This is becoming more difficult since many key fobs are equipped with security features that stop theft. Many companies offer software to make keys. However, they are only an option for customers with service contracts. Trying to bypass these restrictions can cause problems since locksmiths generally do not open cars that were forced or tampered with. Insurance providers will be alerted when 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. A traditional double-edged car key is usually duplicated at your local hardware store for less than $10. To program and create more advanced keys, you'll require special equipment. This can add significantly to the cost of replacing a car key.
You'll also need a new key fob if the vehicle has one to start and unlock it. The cost could range from $100 to $200, depending on the model and make. In addition, many modern vehicles also use a transponder chip inside the key that needs to be replaced and programmed in order to work correctly. This is a cost that is hard to estimate until the key is actually lost and needs to be replaced.
To make a new replacement key, a special cutting machine is required. These can be expensive to purchase and not easily accessible for people without access to a mechanic's workshop. The key housing also needs to be replaced, which could increase the cost of a replacement key.
Depending on the type of car key, you may also need to purchase additional replacement parts. For example, some key fobs come with features like remote lock/unlock and panic buttons which can increase the overall cost. Additionally, some key fobs need a battery which can be expensive to replace.
car key remote control replacement is advisable to make a spare car key prior to the time you lose your original key. This will reduce the stress that comes with losing your keys and will ensure that you always have a working backup. If you need a new car key, find a dealer or locksmith that is equipped to work on your vehicle. This will be cheaper than buying a new key from a dealer and could allow you to avoid the high cost associated with those alternatives.
It is important to keep the immobilizer code as well as your key number if you need to reprogramme a key. This information can be found on your registration, title or other documents. A locksmith or auto dealer will 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 a button. These devices are extremely convenient, however they can also be costly to replace if lost or broken. Locksmiths can save you money by replacing keys without having to replace the device. There are a few aspects to take into consideration when it comes to the cost of replacing a car key.
The year, make & model of the vehicle
There are many different types of car keys, from basic, laser cut keys to switchblade keys. These key types are very distinct and are difficult to duplicate. This is particularly relevant for modern car keys, which have transponders in them which need to be programmed to the vehicle. This can be done by a professional, however it will cost more than a regular key copy.
Another factor that can affect the cost of a replacement car key is the model of car. Keys for older cars and simple models are more affordable to replace, however the most modern cars generally require a specific device to start the car, which could 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 car key. If you lose your keys in a foreign area, you may be charged a higher fee for towing your car to the nearest dealer to have a new key programmed. You can cut down on this expense by keeping an extra key in a safe location, such as your home or office.
It is crucial to know that the new key will most likely require programming by the dealer. This is because the majority of major dealers do not provide mobile key programming and can only offer this service in their workshop. It can be costly when you lose your sole set of keys. So, it's better to keep a spare set on you.
Cost of Key Replacement
Based on the brand and model of your vehicle, you may need to purchase replacement keys from an auto dealer or locksmith. Check the key of your car to see if it has a smart key or transponder chip. These technologies can raise the cost of replacing your car's key.
A standard car key with a key fob is relatively cheap and can typically be duplicated at a local hardware store for less than $25. It's always a good idea to keep a backup in case you lose the original.
Modern cars have keys that emit an electronic signal to unlock and start the car. It's a hassle to replace in the event of a loss, as you'll need to contact the manufacturer for a new one and pair it with your vehicle. The cost of a key fob replacement can vary from $50 to $150.
In certain cases, you can have a key fob repaired at the dealership as long as you show proof of ownership using registration or title. However, the dealer might charge an additional cost to cover travel expenses 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 is also more risky because the quality of the keys cannot be assured.
Don't attempt to get into your car with wire hangers or force. This could trigger alarms and make it harder for locksmiths to open the door. This could also damage the lock and result in cost-plus charges for a full repair or replacement. If you are able to locate your car keys, it might be worth the extra money to have them duplicated by an auto specialist instead of at the dealership. This can save you lots of cash, particularly if have an extra key at home.