The Cost of a Replacement Car Key

It can be frustrating to lose your car keys. It is important to keep in mind that a replacement key for your car key fob replacement may not cost as much as you think.

The cost of purchasing a new car key is determined by several factors including the type of replacement key you need and the location you live in. Traditional keys are the least costly and the smart keys are more expensive.

Cost of Parts

Depending on what kind of key you require the price will vary. Keys that are standard and do not have transponder chips are available for $50 to $110. The costs increase if you need keys equipped with a transponder chip or a push-to-start vehicle that requires a second fob to turn on the car. Keys with transponder chips are expensive to duplicate and replace, and harder to steal.

The year, make and model of your car will also impact the price. The transponder chip on newer vehicles will have to be programmed with an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that keys that are spare will need to be programmed with the car, which could cost up to $200. Other factors that influence the cost of replacement keys include:

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 duplicate an ordinary key at a hardware shop. You can also use roadside assistance to help you obtain a new key however, they'll likely tow your car to a dealer and the process could take a few days to complete.

If you own a newer key fob, the most efficient way to cut costs is to purchase all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. But this is becoming more difficult since many key fobs have security features to prevent theft. Many companies have software that can be used to make keys, but they are typically only available to those with service contracts or as a courtesy from the dealership. Most locksmiths won't open vehicles that have locked locks that have been forced or altered. Insurance providers will be alerted in the event that you make use of 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 in a local hardware shop. To program and create more sophisticated keys, you'll need special equipment. This can dramatically increase the cost of replacing your car keys.

If your car has an ignition key to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll need to have a new fob installed in addition. The cost could range from $100 to $200 based on the model and make. Many newer vehicles use a transponder in the key, which needs to be programmed and replaced to function properly. This is an additional expense that is hard to estimate until the key is actually lost and needs to be replaced.

To make a new replacement key, a specialized cutting machine will also be required. They are costly and are not accessible for those who don't have a mechanic shop. Additionally, the key's housing must be replaced as well and this can increase the total cost of an replacement car key.

Depending on the type of car key, you might need to purchase additional replacement parts in addition to. Some key fobs, for example, have features like remote lock/unlock or panic buttons which can add to the overall cost. Some key fobs also require a battery which can be costly to replace.

It is advisable to create a spare key before you lose the original. This will ease the stress of losing your keys, and ensure you have another backup. If you need a replacement car key, find a dealer or locksmith that has the appropriate equipment to work on your car. This is less expensive than buying a new key from a dealer, and you will avoid the fees that are high when you choose this option.

If you own keys that require programming, it's important to keep a record of the immobilizer code or key number in case you want to be able to reprogramme it later. This information is available on your registration or title, or on other documents. A locksmith or auto dealer may charge a fee to provide this information.

Cost of Equipment

Modern vehicles come with key fobs that can lock, unlock and start the vehicle by simply pressing one button. These devices can be extremely convenient, however they can be costly to replace when they are lost or damaged. Fortunately, locksmiths can save you money by replacing these kinds of keys without the added expense of replacing the device itself. There are several aspects to take into consideration when determining the price of the replacement car key fob of a car key.

The Year, Make & Model of the vehicle

There are numerous kinds of car keys, ranging from laser-cut keys to switchblades. These keys are distinct and are difficult to duplicate. This is particularly the case for modern car keys transponders, which must be programmed into the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, cost of a replacement car key but will cost more than a standard key copy.

The model of car you drive can affect the price. Keys for older cars that are basic cost less to replace. However, the most advanced cars require a special device that can cost up $500 to replace.

The type of key and location of the vehicle may affect the cost of a replacement key. If you lose your keys in a foreign area, you may be charged a higher price to take your vehicle to the nearest dealership to have a new key programmed. This expense is prevented by keeping an extra key in a safe location such as at home or at work.

It is important to note that a new key will likely to need to be programmed by the dealer. This is because the majority of major dealers do not provide mobile key programming and only perform this service in their workshop. It can be costly in the event that you lose your primary set of keys. Therefore, it's best to keep a spare set on you.

Cost of Replacement Keys

You may need to buy replacement keys from an auto locksmith or a dealer, depending on the make and models of your vehicle. Check the key of your car to see if it has a smart key or transponder chip. These technologies can increase the cost of your car key replacement.

A traditional car that doesn't have a keyfob is affordable and can be duplicated at an area hardware store for less than $25. It's a good idea have a backup in case you lose the original.

The majority of new cars have a key fob which emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your car. This can be a major issue to replace in the event of it being lost, since you'll have to contact the manufacturer of the car for a new key and then pair it with your vehicle. The cost of a standard replacement key fob can range from $50 to $150.

In some instances, you may be able to change a keyfob in the dealer if you provide evidence of ownership, like the registration or title. However, the dealer could still charge an extra fee for the service to cover the cost of travel and time spent in remote locations. Alternatively, you can buy an aftermarket key on the internet 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 guaranteed.

Do not attempt to hack into your car using wire hangers or Cost of a Replacement Car Key force. This could raise alarms and make it harder for a locksmith to unlock the door. This could also cause damage to the lock, which would result in more expensive repairs or replacements. If you are able to locate your car keys, it might be worth the extra cost to have them copied by an auto specialist instead of the dealership. This can save you a lot of money, particularly if you have a spare key at home.