10 Cost Of A Replacement Car Key That Are Unexpected
The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
It can be a hassle to lose your car keys. It's important to realize that a replacement key might not be as costly as you think.
The cost of a new car key is determined by several aspects, including the kind of replacement key you need and the location of your home. Traditional keys are the cheapest while the smart keys are more expensive.
Cost of Parts
Based on the kind of key you require the price will differ. More about the author that are standard and do not have transponder chips are priced from $50 to $110. The cost increases if you need a key fob equipped with a transponder chip or a push-to-start vehicle that requires a second fob to activate the car. Those types of keys can be expensive to duplicate or replace and are more difficult for thieves to gain access to.
The year the make and model of your car will also affect the cost. The transponder chip that is used in newer cars will need to be connected with an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that keys that are replaced will need to be programmed to work with the vehicle and could cost up to $200. Other factors that impact the cost of replacement keys are:
Auto locksmiths might be the cheapest however they do not have the equipment to handle advanced key fobs or vehicles. You can try to copy a basic key at a hardware store, however, the process takes a long time and difficult when you don't have the right tools. You can also seek roadside assistance to assist you obtain a new key, but they will likely tow your car to a dealership, and the process could take several days to complete.
If you own a newer key fob, the best way to reduce your costs is to buy all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. This is becoming more difficult as a lot of key fobs have security features that prevent theft. Many companies offer software programs to design keys. However, these are only available as an option to customers with service contracts. Locksmiths aren't likely to open cars that have been forced to open or altered. If you're able use wire hangers or another method to open the car it will signal red flags to insurance companies.
Cost of Labor
The cost of replacing a car key will be contingent on the kind you require. For less than $10, a traditional double-edged key can be duplicated in an area hardware store. To program and make more advanced keys, you'll require special equipment. This can significantly increase the cost of replacing the car key.
You'll also need a brand new key fob if the vehicle has one to unlock it and start it. This can run up to $200, depending on the model and brand of your vehicle. A lot of newer cars have transponders inside the key that must be programmed and re-installed in order to function properly. This is a cost that is difficult to estimate prior to the time that the key is lost and has to be replaced.
A cutting machine with specialized capabilities is also required to make 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 is also required to be replaced and this can increase the overall cost of a replacement car key.
Based on the type of car key you have, you may need to buy other replacement parts as well. For instance, some key fobs have features like panic and remote lock/unlock buttons that can add to overall costs. Additionally, some key fobs require batteries that can be quite pricey to replace.
It is advisable to create a spare key before you lose your primary. This will lessen the stress of losing keys and ensure that you always have a functioning backup. If you need an additional key, try to find a locksmith or car dealer with the right equipment to work with your car. This will be cheaper than buying a new key from a dealership and will allow you to avoid the high costs associated with these alternatives.
If you have an ignition key that requires programming, it's important to have a record of the immobilizer code or the key number in case you have to get it reprogrammed in the future. This information is available on your registration or title, or on other documents. A locksmith or auto dealer will charge a fee to provide this information.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars come with key fobs that can lock, unlock and start the vehicle by pressing one button. These devices can be very convenient, but expensive to replace if they become damaged or lost. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace these keys without having to replace the device. There are many aspects to take into consideration when determining the cost of a new car key.
The Year, Make & Model of the Vehicle
There are many types of car keys ranging from laser-cut keys to switchblades. Keys of this kind are distinct and are difficult to duplicate. This is particularly relevant for modern car keys which have transponders in them that need to be programmed to the vehicle. This can be done by a professional, however it will cost more than a standard key copy.
Another factor that can affect the cost of replacing a car key is the model of car. Basic keys and older cars are cheaper to replace, however the most advanced cars will generally require a specific device to start the car, and can cost up to $500 to replace.
The key type and location of the vehicle can also influence the cost of a replacement car key. If you lose your keys in a remote area, you could be charged a higher price to tow your car to the nearest dealership to get a new key programmed. You can cut down on this expense by keeping an extra key in a safe place like your home or in the office.
It is crucial to know that the new key will probably require programming by the dealer. This is because most main dealers don't have mobile key programming facilities and can only do it in their workshop. It can be expensive when you lose your sole set of keys. Therefore, it's best to keep a spare set of keys with you.
Cost of Key Replacement
Based on the brand and model of your car, you may need to purchase replacement keys from an auto locksmith. Before doing so, verify your vehicle's key type and if it comes with a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can increase the cost of your vehicle key replacement.
A traditional car key without key fobs is inexpensive and can usually be duplicated at a local hardware store for less than $25. It is recommended to keep another spare in the event that you lose your original.
More recent cars have a key fob that emits an electronic signal to unlock and start the car. This can be a major problem to replace in the event that it is lost, as you will need to contact the car manufacturer for a new key and have it paired with your vehicle. The cost of an alternative key fob ranges between $50 and $125.
In some cases, you can have a key fob replaced at the dealership so long as you can prove ownership by proving registration or title. However, the dealer could still charge an extra fee for the service to cover travel expenses and time spent in an unreachable location. Alternatively, you can buy an aftermarket key online, or even directly from the car manufacturer. This is a cheaper option, but it is also more risky because the quality of the keys can't be assured.
Do not attempt to gain entry into your car with the use of wire hangers or force, as this could cause alarms and make it difficult for a professional locksmith to open the door of your car. This could also damage the lock, which would lead to cost-intensive repairs or replacements. If you are able to locate your car keys, it might be worth the extra money to have them duplicated by an auto expert instead of the dealership. This can save you money, particularly if there is an extra car key in your home.