The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
It can be a hassle to lose your car keys. It is important to keep in mind that a replacement car key may not cost as much as you think.
The cost of a new car key is determined by various aspects, including the kind of replacement key you need and your location. Keys that are traditional are the cheapest while the smart keys are more expensive.
Cost of parts
Based on the type of key you need the price will vary. Keys that are standard and do not have transponder chips are priced between $50 and $110. If you need a keyfob with a chip or a push to start vehicle that requires a second fob the costs will increase. These types of keys can be expensive to duplicate or replace and are harder for car thieves to gain access to.
The year and make of your vehicle will also impact the cost. The latest models may have transponder chips which need to be linked to the car by a dealer or auto locksmith. This means that keys that are spare will need to be programmed to work with the car, which could cost as much as $200. Other factors that impact the cost of replacement keys are:
Auto locksmiths are the cheapest alternative, but they do not have all the tools needed to deal with more sophisticated key fobs or vehicles. If you don't have the appropriate tools, it may be difficult to duplicate the basic key from a hardware shop. You can also contact roadside assistance for a new key. However, they'll transport your vehicle to a dealer and the process may take several days.
If you have a newer key fob, the best way to cut costs is to buy all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. However, this is becoming more and more difficult as the majority of key fobs come with security features to guard against theft. Numerous companies offer software to make keys. However, they are only a service to customers who have service contracts. Locksmiths aren't likely to open vehicles that have had their locks forced or tampered. Insurance companies will be notified if you make use of wire hangers to unlock your car.
Cost of Labor
The type of car key you require will determine the amount it will cost to replace. For less than $10, a standard double-edged key can be duplicated at a local hardware shop. However, more advanced keys require specialized equipment to design and manufacture. This can significantly increase the cost of replacing your car key.
If your vehicle has an ignition key to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll need to have a new fob installed also. The cost can be up to $200 depending on the model and make. In addition, many modern vehicles also include a transponder in the key that needs to be replaced and programmed to function properly. This is a cost that is hard to estimate until the key is actually lost and must be replaced.
To create a replacement key, a specially-designed cutting machine will also be required. These can be expensive to purchase and aren't readily available to those who do not have access to a mechanic's workshop. The key housing also needs to be replaced, which may increase the cost of replacing a key.
Depending on the kind of car key, you might need to purchase other replacement parts as well. For example, some key fobs have features such as remote lock/unlock and panic buttons that can add to overall cost. Some key fobs also need a battery which can be costly to replace.
It is recommended to create a spare car key prior to the time you lose the original one. This will allow you to avoid the stress of losing your keys, and also ensure that you have a backup. If you do end up needing an additional key, seek out a locksmith or a car dealer that has the proper equipment to work with your car. This will be less expensive than purchasing a new one from the dealership and should let you avoid some of the high costs associated with these alternatives.
It is important to keep a record of your immobilizer code and the key number in case you need to reprogramme your key. This information can be found on your registration, title or other documents. A locksmith or auto dealer will charge a fee to provide this information.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars have key fobs which can lock, unlock and even start the vehicle by simply pressing the button. These devices are extremely convenient, however they can be costly to replace if damaged or lost. Luckily, locksmiths can often save you money by replacing these types of keys, without the expense of replacing the device itself. There are several factors to consider when determining the price of the replacement of a car key.
The year, the make and model of the vehicle
There are many types of keys for cars, from laser-cut keys to switchblades. Keys of this kind are distinct, and they are difficult to duplicate. This is especially relevant for modern car keys that have transponders that need to be programmed to the vehicle. This can be done by a professional, however it will cost more than a regular key copy.
The type of vehicle can influence the cost. Keys for older cars and simple models are more affordable to replace, however the most sophisticated cars will typically require a separate device to start the car, and can cost up to $500 to replace.
The type of key and the location of the car can also impact the cost of a new key. It could cost you more to tow your vehicle to the nearest dealer if you lose your keys somewhere in a foreign location. You can cut down on this expense by keeping an extra key in a secure location like your home or the office.
It is also important to remember that, most of the time keys for new cars has to be programmed by a dealer. car keys lost replacement is due to the fact that the majority of major dealers do not provide mobile key programming and only perform this service in their workshop. This could be a huge expense if you end up losing your only set of car keys, therefore it is recommended to take preventative measures and keep a spare set with you at all times.
Cost of Key Replacement
Based on the make and model of your car depending on the make and model of your car, you may have to purchase replacement keys from a dealer or an automotive locksmith. Before you do this, make sure to check the type of key in your vehicle and whether it is equipped with a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can increase the cost of your vehicle key replacement.
A typical car that does not have a keyfob can be affordable and can be duplicated in a local hardware shop for less than $25. It's a good idea to keep a backup in case you lose the original.
More recent cars have a key fob that emits an electronic signal to unlock and start the vehicle. This could be a big problem to replace in the event that it gets lost, since you'll have to contact your car manufacturer for a new key and have it paired with your vehicle. The cost of a standard key fob replacement could range from $50 to $150.
In certain instances, you can replace a keyfob at the dealership if you can provide evidence of ownership, such as 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 at an unreachable location. You can also purchase an aftermarket key online or even directly from the vehicle manufacturer. This is less expensive, however it is more risky as the quality of the keys cannot be guaranteed.
Do not attempt 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 damage the lock, which would cause cost-intensive repairs or replacements. If you're able to locate your car keys, it may be worth the extra expense to have them duplicated by an auto expert instead of at the dealership. This could help you save money, especially in the event that you have a spare car key at home.