The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
Losing your car keys could be a frustrating experience. It's important to keep in mind that a replacement car key may not cost as much as you think.
The cost of buying a new car key is determined by several factors including the type of replacement key you need and the location of your home. Traditional keys are the most affordable while the smart keys are more expensive.
Cost of Parts
The cost will vary depending on the type of key that you require. Standard keys that have no transponder chips can be copied for between $50 and $110. If you need an electronic keyfob or a push to start vehicle that requires a second fob the costs will increase. The keys are costly to duplicate and replace, and are more difficult to steal.
The year the make and model of your car will also impact the cost. The transponder chip on newer vehicles will have to be connected with an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that keys that are spare will need to be programmed with the car, which could cost as much as $200. Other factors that impact the cost of replacement keys are:
Auto locksmiths are the least expensive alternative, but they do not have all the equipment required to deal with more sophisticated key fobs or vehicles. car key replacement near me can copy a basic key by yourself at a hardware store however, the process can be time-consuming and can be difficult when you don't have the right tools. You can also seek roadside assistance to help you obtain a new key, but they will likely transport your vehicle to a dealer and the process could take several days to complete.
If you own a newer key fob, the most efficient method to save money is to purchase all-in one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. But this is becoming more difficult as the majority of key fobs come with security features that prevent theft. Many companies have software programs that can be used to create keys, but these are typically only available to those with service contracts or as a service offered by the dealership. Most locksmiths will not open cars that have been forced to open or altered. Insurance companies will be notified 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. For less than $10, a standard double-edged key can be duplicated in an area hardware store. To program and make more advanced keys, you will need special equipment. This can significantly increase the cost of replacing your car key.
You'll also need a brand new key fob in case your vehicle is equipped with one to unlock it and start it. This can run up to $200, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Many modern vehicles have a transponder in the key, which needs to be programmed and re-installed in order to function correctly. This is a price that is hard to estimate prior to the moment when the key is lost and has to be replaced.
A cutting machine with specialized capabilities is also required for the creation of the new replacement key. These are expensive and aren't readily available to people who do not have an auto repair shop. Additionally, the key's housing needs to be replaced too which could add to the overall costs of making the replacement key for your car.
Depending on the type of car key you have, you might need to purchase other replacement parts too. For instance, some key fobs come with features such as panic buttons and remote lock/unlock which can increase the overall costs. Some key fobs also need a battery which can be costly to replace.
It is best to make an extra car key before you lose your original key. This will ease the anxiety of losing your keys, and ensure that you have an extra. If you need a new key, seek out a locksmith or a car dealer that has the proper equipment to work with your car. This will be cheaper than getting a new one from a dealer and could allow you to save some of the costly cost associated with those alternatives.
If you have an ignition key that requires programming, you must have a record of the immobilizer code or key number in case you need to have it reprogrammed later on. This information is usually found on your title or registration and is available to an auto dealer or locksmith for a fee.
Cost of Equipment
Modern automobiles have key fobs which can lock, unlock and even start the vehicle with just a button. These devices are extremely convenient, but they can also be costly to replace if lost or broken. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace keys without needing to replace the device. However, there are several things to consider when it comes to determining the cost of replacing a car key.
The Year, Make and Model of the Vehicle
There are many different types of keys for cars, from basic, laser cut keys to switchesblade keys. These keys are very difficult to duplicate since they are unique. This is especially relevant for modern car key transponders, which must be programmed into the vehicle. This procedure can be completed by a specialist, but it generally costs more than a copy of the keys.
Another factor that can impact the cost of replacing a car key is the model of car. Cars with basic keys cost less to replace. However the most modern cars require a special device that can cost upwards of $500 to replace.
The type of key and location of the vehicle may also influence the cost of a replacement car key. If you lose your keys in a remote location, you could be charged a higher price for towing your car to the nearest dealership to have a new key programmed. You can avoid this expense by keeping an extra key in a safe location like your home or the office.
It is important to remember that keys that are new will probably need to be programmed by the dealer. This is due to the fact that the majority of main dealers do not provide mobile key programming and can only offer this service in their workshop. This could be a significant expense if you end up losing your car's only set of keys, therefore it is better to be proactive and keep a spare set with you always.
Cost of replacing keys
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle You may need to purchase replacement keys from an auto locksmith. Check your vehicle's key to determine if it is equipped with a smart key or transponder chip. These technologies can increase your car key replacement cost.
A typical car key that is not 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 have a backup in case you lose the original.
More recent cars have keys that emit an electronic signal to unlock and start the vehicle. This can be a major issue to replace in the event of it being lost, as you will have to contact your manufacturer of your car to request a replacement key and have it paired 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, such as a registration or title. However, the dealer may charge an additional cost to cover the cost of travel and time spent in remote locations. You can also purchase an aftermarket key on the internet or even directly from the car manufacturer. This is less expensive, but may be a bit more risky because the quality of these keys cannot be guaranteed.
You should never attempt to break into your vehicle using wire hangers or even force, as this could cause alarms and make it difficult for a professional locksmith to open the door of your car. This could also cause damage to the lock and result in additional charges for a complete repair or replacement. If you can find the car keys, it might be worth the extra cost to have them duplicated by an auto expert instead of at the dealership. This could save you money, particularly when you have a spare car key at home.