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The Cost of a Replacement Car Key

It can be very frustrating to lose your car keys. But it's important to remember that a replacement key might not be as expensive as you think.

The cost of a replacement for a car key is contingent on a variety of factors, including the type of key you need and the location of your home. Keys made of traditional design are the cheapest while smart keys are the most costly.

Cost of Parts

The cost will differ based on the type of key you require. Keys that are standard and do not have transponder chips are priced between $50 and $110. If you require the keyfob to be chipped or a push to start vehicle that requires a second fob, the price will increase. These types of keys can be expensive to duplicate or replace, and are difficult for car thieves to steal.

The year, make and model of your vehicle will also impact the cost. The latest models may have transponder chips which need to be linked to the car by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that the replacement key needs to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle, which could cost up to $200. Other factors that affect the cost of replacement keys include:

Auto locksmiths are the least expensive option, but they do not have all the tools needed to deal with more sophisticated key fobs or vehicles. You can try to copy a basic key by yourself at a hardware store, however, the process can be time-consuming and can be difficult in the absence of the appropriate tools. You can also use roadside assistance to help 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 have an old key fob, it's ideal to purchase laser-cut all in-one keys and program them yourself. However, this is becoming more difficult as key fobs are often equipped with security features to prevent theft. Many companies have software that can be used to make keys, but they are typically only available to those with service contracts or as a courtesy through the dealership. If you try to get around these restrictions, it can lead to problems, since most locksmiths won't open vehicles that are forced or altered with. Insurance companies will be notified in the event that you employ wire hangers to open your car.

Cost of Labor

The kind of car key you require will determine the amount it will cost to replace. A standard double-edged car key can be duplicated at your local hardware store for less than $10. To program and create more advanced keys, you'll need special equipment. This can add significantly to the total cost of replacing the car key.

You'll also need a brand new key fob if your vehicle has one to start and unlock it. It could cost up to $200, depending on the model and brand of your vehicle. A lot of newer cars have transponders in the keys that must be programmed and replaced to function properly. This is a price that is difficult to estimate prior to the moment when the key is lost and needs to be replaced.

To create a new replacement key, a special cutting machine will also be required. They are expensive and aren't readily available to those who do not have an auto repair shop. The key housing needs to be replaced, which may increase the cost of replacing a key.

Depending on the type of car key, you may also need to purchase additional replacement parts. Certain key fobs, for instance, include features like remote lock/unlock or panic buttons, which can increase the overall cost. Furthermore, certain key fobs require a battery that can be quite pricey to replace.

It is best to make an extra car key before you lose your original key. This will reduce the stress that comes with losing your keys and ensure that you always have a functional backup. If you need an additional key, you should try to find 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 enable you to avoid some of the high cost associated with those alternatives.

It's important to keep a record of your immobilizer code and the key number if you have to reprogramme a key. This information is available on your registration, title or other documents. A locksmith or auto dealer may charge a fee to supply this information.

Cost of Equipment

Modern cars have key fobs that lock, unlock and even start the vehicle with just a button. These devices can be very convenient, however they can be costly to replace when they're lost or damaged. Luckily, locksmiths can often save you money by replacing these types of keys without the expense of replacing the device itself. However, there are many factors to consider when determining the cost of a replacement car key.

The Year, Make & Model of the vehicle

There are a variety of keys for cars, ranging from basic, laser cut keys to switchblade keys. These key types are very distinct, and they are difficult to duplicate. This is particularly the case for modern car keys, that have transponders which need to be programmed to the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, however it is generally more expensive than a simple copy of the key.

The model of car you drive can influence the cost. Older cars and basic keys are less expensive to replace, however the most advanced cars will typically require a special device to start the car, which can cost up to $500 to replace.

The type of key and the location of the vehicle can also affect the cost of a replacement key. You could be charged more to tow your vehicle to the nearest dealership in case you lose your keys in a place unknown. You can avoid this expense by keeping an extra key in a secure location like your home or the office.

It is also important to understand that, most of the time, a new car key must be programmed at the dealer. It is because the majority of major dealers do not offer mobile key programming and can only perform this service in their workshop. This can be a big expense in the case of losing your car's only set of keys, which is why it's better to be proactive and carry a spare 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 an auto locksmith. Examine the key in your vehicle to see if it has an electronic transponder or smart key chip. These technologies can increase your car key replacement cost.

A standard cheap car key replacement key with a key fob is relatively inexpensive and can usually be duplicated at a local hardware store for less than $25. It's always a good idea to have a backup just in the event that you lose your original.

The majority of new cars have a key fob which emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your vehicle. It can be a hassle to replace in the event of a loss in the event that you lose it, since you'll need to contact the manufacturer to obtain a new one and pair it with your car. The cost of an alternative key fob ranges from $50 to $125.

In some cases you can change a keyfob in the dealership if you have proof of ownership, like an official registration or a title. However, the dealer may charge an additional cost to cover the cost of travel and time spent in remote locations. Alternately, you can purchase an aftermarket key online, or even directly from the vehicle manufacturer. This option may be cheaper however it's more risky as the quality of the keys can't be assured.

Do not attempt to break into your car using wire hangers or force. This could trigger alarms and make it more difficult for locksmiths to open the door. This could also cause damage to the lock, which could result in additional costs for a full repair or cost of a replacement car key replacement. If you are able to locate your car keys it may be worth paying more to have them duplicated by an auto expert rather than the dealership. This could help you save money, especially when you have an extra car key in your home.