The Cost of a Replacement Car Key

Losing your car keys could be a very frustrating experience. It is important to remember that a replacement car key might not cost as much as you think.

The cost of a Replacement car Key costs for a car key is contingent on a variety of factors, including the type of key you require and your location. Keys that are traditional are the cheapest while smart keys are the most expensive.

Cost of Parts

Depending on the type of key you require the price can differ. Standard keys that have no transponder chips can be copied for electronic car key replacement anywhere between $50 and $110. The costs increase for those who require an ignition key with a transponder chip, or a vehicle with a push-to-start feature that requires an extra fob to activate the car. Keys with these types of features can be expensive to duplicate or replace, and are harder for car thieves to gain access to.

The cost is also affected by the year, model and year of vehicle you own. The latest models may have transponder chips that must be paired with the car by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that keys that are spare will need to be programmed with the car, which can add up to $200. The cost of replacement keys is also affected by:

Auto locksmiths are often the cheapest however they do not have the tools needed to deal with advanced key fobs or vehicles. You can copy a basic key by yourself at a hardware store, however, the process takes a long time and may be a challenge when you don't have the appropriate tools. You can also contact roadside assistance to request a replacement key. However, they will transport your vehicle to a dealer and the process can take a few days.

If you have a newer key fob, the most efficient way to cut costs is to buy all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. This is becoming increasingly difficult as a lot of key fobs are equipped with security features that prevent theft. Many companies have software that can be used to create keys, however these are generally only available to customers who have service contracts or as a courtesy through the dealership. Trying to bypass these restrictions can lead to problems, since locksmiths generally do not open cars that were forced or tampered with. Insurance providers will be alerted when you employ wire hangers to open your vehicle.

Cost of Labor

The type of car key you need will determine how much it will cost to replace. A standard double-edged car keys can be duplicated at your local hardware store for less than $10. To program and make more sophisticated keys, you will need special equipment. This can increase the cost of replacing a car key.

You'll also require a new key fob if the car uses one to unlock it and start it. The cost could be anywhere from to $200 based on your vehicle's make and model. Additionally, many newer vehicles also have a transponder chip inside the key that needs to be replaced and programmed in order to work correctly. This is a price that is difficult to estimate before the key is lost and has to be replaced.

To make a new replacement key, a specially-designed cutting machine will also be required. They are costly and aren't readily available to people who do not have an auto mechanic shop. In addition, the housing of the key is also required to be replaced, which can add to the overall costs of making an replacement car key.

Depending on the car key type, you may also need to purchase replacement parts. Certain key fobs, as an instance, come with features such as remote lock/unlock or panic buttons which can add to overall costs. Some key fobs also require batteries, which can be expensive to replace.

It is advisable to make a spare car key prior to the time you lose the original one. This will ease the anxiety that comes with losing your keys and ensure that you always have a functional backup. If you do end up needing an additional key, seek out a locksmith or a car dealer equipped to work with your car. This is less expensive than buying a new key from a dealership and will enable you to avoid some of the high costs associated with these options.

If you own keys that require programming, it's important to keep a record of your immobilizer code or the key number in case you need to be able to reprogramme it later. This information is normally found on your registration or title and is available to an auto dealer or locksmith for a small fee.

Cost of Equipment

Modern cars come with key fobs that can lock, unlock, and start the car by simply pressing a button. These devices are extremely convenient, but they can be costly to replace if lost or broken. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace keys without having to replace the device. However, there are many factors to consider when it comes to determining the cost of replacing a car key.

The Year, Make & Model of the vehicle

There are a variety of keys for cars, ranging from simple laser cut keys to switchesblade keys. They are extremely difficult to duplicate since they are so distinct. This is particularly true for modern car key transponders that need to be programmed into the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, however it is generally more expensive than a simple key copy.

The model of the vehicle will also affect the cost. Older cars with basic keys cost less to replace. However the most modern cars require a special device that can cost up $500 to replace.

The type of key and location of the vehicle could affect the cost of a replacement car key. If you lose your keys in an unfamiliar area, you may be charged a higher fee to take your vehicle to the nearest dealer to have a new key programmed. This expense can be reduced by keeping an extra key in a safe location like at home or at work.

It is also important to understand that most of the time, a new car key must be programmed at the dealer. This is due to the fact that the majority of dealers do not provide mobile key programming and only do this in their workshop. This can be a big cost in the event of losing your car's only set of keys, so it is better to be proactive and keep a spare set with you always.

Cost of Key Replacement

You may need to buy new keys from an automotive locksmith or dealer, depending on the make and models of your vehicle. Examine the key in your vehicle to determine if it is equipped with a smart key or transponder chip. These technologies could increase the cost of replacing your car's key.

A traditional Electronic car Key replacement key without a key fob is relatively affordable and can be duplicated at a local hardware store for under $25. It's best to have an extra in case you lose your original.

Most recent cars come with a key fob which emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your car. This could be a big hassle to replace in the event of it being lost, as you'll have to contact your car manufacturer for a new key and have it paired with your vehicle. The cost of a replacement keys for cars key fob ranges from $50 to $125.

In some cases you can replace a keyfob at the dealership if you have proof of ownership, like an official registration or a title. However, the dealer might charge an additional fee for the service to cover travel costs and time spent in an unreachable location. Alternately, you can purchase an aftermarket key online or even directly from the vehicle manufacturer. This is a cheaper option, but it could be more risky as the quality of these keys can't be assured.

Never try to hack into your car using wire hangers or force. This could trigger alarms and make it harder for a locksmith to unlock the door. This could also cause damage to the lock, which could result in more expensive repairs or replacements. If you can find your car keys, it could be worth it to have them duplicated by an auto expert instead of at the dealership. This could help you save money, especially if there is an extra car key in your home.