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The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
It can be frustrating to lose your car keys. But it's important to remember that a replacement key might not be as costly 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 most affordable, while the smart keys are more expensive.
Cost of Parts
The price will vary based on the type of key you need. Keys that are standard and do not have transponder chips are available for $50 to $110. If you require an electronic keyfob or a push-to-start vehicle that requires a second fob the costs will increase. Those types of keys can be expensive to duplicate or replace, and are difficult for car thieves to gain access to.
The year, make and model of your car will also affect the cost. 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 replaced will need to be programmed to work with the vehicle which can cost up to $200. Other factors that affect the cost of replacement keys include:
Auto locksmiths might be the cheapest however they do not have the equipment to handle advanced key fobs or vehicles. You can attempt to duplicate a basic key at a hardware store but the process is time-consuming and can be difficult in the absence of the right tools. You can also contact roadside assistance for a new key. However, they will tow 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 purchase all-in one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. This is becoming increasingly difficult, as many key fobs come with security features that prevent theft. Many companies offer software to create keys. However, they are only an option to customers with service contracts. Most locksmiths won't open vehicles that have had their locks forced or tampered. Insurance providers will be alerted when you use wire hangers to open your car.
Cost of Labor
The type of car key that you require will determine how much it will cost to replace. For less than $10, a standard double-edged key can be duplicated in a local hardware shop. To program and create more advanced keys, you'll require special equipment. This can dramatically increase the cost of replacing your car key.
If your car uses a key fob to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll need to have a new fob installed also. car key replacement price can run up to $200, depending on the model and make of your vehicle. Many newer vehicles use transponders inside the key which must be programmed and replaced in order to work properly. This is an additional expense that is hard to estimate until the key is lost and must be replaced.
A cutting machine with specialized capabilities is also required for the creation of the new key replacement. These can be expensive to purchase and are not accessible to people who don't have an auto mechanic's shop. The key housing needs to be replaced, which could increase the cost of a replacement key.
Depending on the type of car key you have, you may have to purchase additional replacement parts in addition to. Some key fobs, for instance, include features like panic or remote lock/unlock buttons, which can increase the total cost. Some key fobs also require batteries that can be costly to replace.
It is advisable to make an extra car key before you lose the original one. This will ease the stress of losing your keys, and ensure you have another backup. If you need a new key, you should seek out a locksmith or car dealer that has the proper equipment to work with your car. It will cost less than buying a new key from the dealer and will save you the cost-intensive fees associated with this option.
It's important to keep the immobilizer code and key number if you have to reprogramme your key. This information is usually found on your title or registration and can be provided to an auto dealer or locksmith for a small fee.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars are equipped with key fobs that are able to lock or unlock and even start the car with just a button. These devices are extremely convenient, however they can be costly to replace if lost or broken. Locksmiths can save you money by replacing these keys without having to replace the device. There are several factors to take into account when determining the cost of the replacement of a car key.
The Year, Make & Model of the vehicle
There are numerous kinds of keys for cars, from laser-cut keys to switchblades. Keys of this kind are distinct, and they are difficult to duplicate. This is particularly true for modern car key transponders that must be programmed into 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. Cars with basic keys cost less to replace. However the most modern automobiles require a specific device that can cost up $500 to replace.
The type of key and the location of the car could also affect the cost of a new car key. You may be charged more to tow your car to the nearest dealership in case you lose your keys somewhere unknown. You can save this cost by keeping keys in a safe location like your home or the office.
It is also important to remember that, most of the time the new car key has to be programmed by a dealer. This is due to the fact that the majority of major dealers do not provide mobile key programming and only do this in their workshop. This could be a huge expense in the case of losing your car's only set of keys, therefore it is best to be proactive and keep a spare with you always.
Cost of replacement keys
You may have to purchase new keys from an automotive locksmith or a dealer depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Before you do this, make sure to check the type of key in your vehicle and if it comes with 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 inexpensive and can usually be duplicated at an hardware store in your area for less than $25. It's always a good idea to have a backup just in the event that you lose your original.
More recent cars have keys that emit an electronic signal to unlock and start the car. This can be a huge issue to replace in the event that it gets lost, as you'll have to contact your car manufacturer for a new key and then pair it with your vehicle. The cost of a typical replacement key fob can be anywhere between $50 and $150.
In some cases, you can have a key fob replaced at the dealership so provided you can show proof of ownership using registration or title. Dealers might charge an additional fee to cover the cost of travel and time spent in an unreachable location. You can also purchase an aftermarket car key online or directly from the manufacturer. This option may be cheaper however it's more risky as the quality of the keys cannot be assured.
Do not attempt to hack into your car using wire hangers or force. This could trigger alarms and make it more difficult for a locksmith to unlock the door. It could also damage the lock, which could result in additional costs for a full repair or replacement. If you're able to locate your car keys, it might be worth the extra money to have them copied by an auto specialist instead of at the dealership. This can save you money, especially if there is an extra car key at home.