The Cost of a Replacement Car Key

Losing your car keys could be a very frustrating experience. It's important to keep in mind that a replacement key may not be as expensive 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 need and the location of your home. Traditional keys are the least costly while the smart keys are more expensive.

Cost of parts

The cost will differ based on the type of key you require. Standard keys that have no transponder chips can be copied for anywhere between $50 and $110. If you require the keyfob to be chipped or a push to start vehicle that requires a second fob, the cost will rise. These keys are expensive to duplicate and replace, and are more difficult to steal.

The cost will also be dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle you own. The transponder chip in newer vehicles will have to be programmed by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that the spare key needs to be programmed with the car. This could cost as much as $200. The cost of replacing keys is also affected by:

Auto locksmiths are the cheapest alternative, but they do not have all the equipment required to deal with more sophisticated key fobs or vehicles. If you don't have the right tools, it could be difficult to duplicate the basic key from the hardware store. You can also use roadside assistance to help you get a replacement key however, they'll likely take your vehicle to a dealership and the process could take a few days to complete.

If you own a more recent key fob, the best way to cut costs is to buy all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. But this is becoming more and more difficult since many key fobs have security features to prevent theft. Many companies offer software to create keys. However, these are only available as an option to customers with service contracts. Trying to bypass these restrictions could cause problems, as most locksmiths will not allow cars to be opened if they have been forced or tampered with. If you're able to employ wire hangers or a different method to open the car and then raise red flags for insurance providers.

Cost of Labor

The kind of car key you require will determine how much it will cost to replace. A standard double-edged car replacement keys key can usually be duplicated at your local hardware store for less than $10. However, more sophisticated keys require special machines to design and manufacture. This can add significantly to the cost of replacing the car key.

If your vehicle has a key fob to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll need install a new fob as well. The cost could be anywhere from to $200 based on the make and model. Many modern vehicles have transponders inside the key that must be programmed and replaced in order to function properly. This is a cost that is difficult to estimate prior to the moment when the key is lost and must be replaced.

A cutting machine with specialized capabilities is also required for the creation of the new replacement key. They are expensive and aren't readily available for those who don't have an auto mechanic shop. The key housing needs to be replaced, which could increase the cost of replacing a key.

Depending on the kind of car key you have, you may need to buy additional replacement parts in addition to. Some key fobs, for instance, include features like remote lock/unlock or panic buttons which can add to overall costs. Additionally, some key fobs need a battery which can be expensive to replace.

It is best to make a spare car key prior to the time you lose the original one. 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, look for a locksmith or a car dealer that has the proper equipment to work with your car. This will be less expensive than getting a new one from a dealer and could let you avoid the high cost associated with those alternatives.

If you own a key that requires programming, you must have a record of the immobilizer code or the key number in case you want to get it reprogrammed in the future. This information is usually found on your title or registration and can be provided to a locksmith or auto dealer for a fee.

Cost of Equipment

Modern cars come with key fobs that can lock or unlock and even start the car with just the button. These devices can be extremely convenient, however they can be costly to replace if they become damaged or lost. Fortunately, locksmiths can save you money by replacing these types of keys, without the cost of replacing the device itself. There are a variety of factors to take into account when determining the price of the replacement of a car key.

The Year, Make & Model of the vehicle

There are a variety of keys for cars, from basic, laser cut keys to switchblade keys. They are extremely difficult to duplicate due to being unique. This is particularly relevant for modern car keys, with transponders that require programming to the vehicle. This can be done by a professional, but will cost more than a regular key copy.

The model of car you drive can also affect the cost. Older cars with basic keys cost less to replace. However, the most advanced automobiles require a specific device that can cost upwards of $500 to replace.

The type of key and the location of the vehicle could also affect the cost of a replacement key. You could be charged more to tow your car to the nearest dealer if you lose your keys in an area unknown. 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 understand that, car key replacement cost most of the time, a new car key is programmed by the dealer. It is because the majority of dealers do not provide mobile key programming and only do this in their workshop. This can be a big expense in the case of losing your only set of car keys, which is why it's better to take preventative measures and carry a spare with you always.

Cost of Key Replacement

You may need to buy replacement keys from an auto locksmith or a dealer, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Before you do this, make sure to check the type of your car's keys and whether it has a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can raise your car key replacement cost.

A typical car key that is not a key fob is relatively affordable and can be duplicated at the local hardware store for under $25. It's a good idea to have a backup in case you lose the original.

The latest cars come with key fobs that emit an electronic signal to unlock and start the vehicle. It can be a challenge to replace when it's lost in the event that you lose it, since you'll need to contact the manufacturer for a new one and pair it with your vehicle. The cost of a replacement key fob ranges from $50 to $125.

In certain cases you can get a key fob repaired at the dealership as long as you can prove ownership by proving registration or title. However, the dealer may still charge an extra fee for the service to cover travel costs and time spent on an unreachable location. You can also purchase an aftermarket key online, or even directly from the vehicle manufacturer. This option is cheaper but it could be more risky since the quality of these keys can't be guaranteed.

Do not attempt to break into your car with the use of wire hangers or even force, as this could raise red flags and make it difficult for a professional locksmith to open the door of your car. This could also cause damage to the lock, which could result in additional costs for a full repair or replacement. If you can find the car keys, it might be worth paying more to have them copied by an auto expert rather than the dealership. This could save you lots of cash, particularly if have an extra key in your home.