How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
It can be a hassle and expensive to lose your car keys. The cost of replacing them depends on the type of key and where you get it made.
Locksmiths are usually able to copy traditional keys for less than $10. However, the majority of modern vehicles are equipped with transponder chips that need to be programmed by the dealership. Laser cut keys and key blades are more expensive and require an appointment with a dealer.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
When you lose your car keys it can be a difficult and frustrating. However, if key replacement car own an extra key and know what kind of car key you lost, the process can be a bit more straightforward. Locksmiths can create a copy of a mechanical key from the past quite quickly and easily for instance. However, more advanced types of keys require specific knowledge to be copied. These keys also need to be reprogrammed, which means you'll be required to visit a dealer to purchase a new one.
The type of key that is lost will also determine the cost of replacing it. For instance, traditional mechanical keys that simply insert into the ignition cylinder are less expensive to replace than a key fob that has a transponder that has to be programmed. It will cost more to replace the key fob if it is equipped with a switchblade or other particular features.
The cost of replacing your car keys could also be affected by the method you choose to replace it yourself or with the help a professional. Professionals charge more than DIY methods, but they can save you time and frustration. They also have the most expertise regarding your specific vehicle.
It's worth the cost to replace the car key. You must be aware of all the variables that determine the cost of replacing your car keys so you can plan ahead.
Find a local auto-locksmith to get an estimate on the cost of your car key. They'll be able to provide an estimate based on the specific model and make of your vehicle. They'll also have the tools to finish the job. Another option is calling roadside assistance, however this is more expensive. It is important to note that your insurance provider may include this service in your policy. However it's not always a guarantee that they will provide the services you require.
Dealerships
Not too long ago the loss or misplacement of your car keys wasn't an issue. It was easy to have your car towed by roadside assistance, get the replacement key and get back on the road in a short time. As cars advanced in technology, so have their keys. This makes them more expensive to replace.
Avoiding the dealership is the most efficient way to cut costs, unless you require an entirely new key remote, key fob, or transponder key. Instead, look for an independent locksmith or key replacement shop that sells OEM or third-party keys at a fraction of the cost. A lot of these shops provide an online search tool that can aid you in finding a shop near you.
You should also locate a shop that can cut and program a standard-sized key, since they're generally cheaper than a dealership. The downside is that they might not have the type of key you need in stock and might need to order it for you. If they do have the key, you could expect to pay between $200 and $350.
Some dealers offer in-house services for replacing car keys and other lockout issues, but they're still more expensive than a locksmith service or an independent service. This is especially relevant for top car brands like Ford Chevy Toyota and Chrysler. Their key fobs and chips are more complicated and expensive to replace than those of other manufacturers'.
If you end up at a dealership, make sure to inquire if there are any warranties that cover lockouts. If they do, calling the dealership and mentioning the warranty could aid in reducing your bill. They may be in a position to send a mobile locksmith to your location to unlock your car and make a brand new key right there. This is a great solution if you aren't able to wait days for the dealership to purchase the key and install it. Moreover, you might be in a position to save as much as 50% by going to an independent locksmith instead of the dealership's service center.
Independent Locksmiths
Losing your car keys is not just stressful, but can also be costly. Independent locksmiths are the cheapest option to replace keys that have been lost. They are less expensive than dealerships and do not have the same overhead costs.
If you already have a working key the cost of a new key can vary. If you have it the latter, the cost will be much less as a copy can be made using the key that is currently in use and doesn't have to be programmed. Most of the time, mechanical keys that do not have a transponder chip in them can be copied for a price of $10 or less.
On the other side, modern electronic key fobs are a lot more expensive to duplicate since they require programming to work with your car's security system. This process can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. It could be as simple or as complicated as entering a code, or using an encryption device.
Lastly, it is important to remember that the location of your car could also impact the cost of getting an alternative key. If you're stuck in the middle of nowhere, having the car key replaced could be more costly as there isn't anyone nearby to assist you with the process. This is because the majority of people in this kind of situation depend on roadside assistance, however these services can be costly and typically only cover a portion of the costs involved.
One thing that can be helpful to remember when calculating your replacement key cost is that many locksmiths who are independent will offer discounts for their services for new customers or those who recommend them to others. They do this to encourage their business to expand and rely more on word-of-mouth marketing than expensive advertisements.
One final tip is to always keep a spare key, as this will not only keep you from the stress of dealing with lost car keys, but it will also be much cheaper than trying to replace a lost key at the last minute. If you're worried about the cost of replacing your car key, call your insurance company and ask for more information. While they usually do not cover lost keys to cars, some of them do as a premium add-on.
Key Replacement
If you've lost your keys or simply need to replace one that is old, there are a number of factors that will factor into the cost of purchasing a new car key. You should first write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle. This will help you determine the best place to go to obtain an alternative key. This number is found on the side of the dashboard that is on the driver or in the owner's manual.
Based on the year, model and model of your vehicle depending on the year, make and model of your car, you may need to visit a dealer to obtain new keys, particularly if it contains an electronic transponder chip. These chips need to be programmed to work, as they communicate with the vehicle to start it. This is done using special machines that are usually only available through the dealership and can cost upwards of $200 for a replacement key and fob.
If your car is equipped with traditional keys that do not have transponder chips, you should be able to locate a locksmith who will duplicate it at a cheaper price. This could cost as little as $10 for one set of keys or $150 based on the type.
Some keys are more difficult to duplicate and more expensive. A switchblade key, which folds up into fobs, is typically more expensive than other type of key, because it takes more work to create. Smart keys, which rely on the proximity sensor to open the car door, are another expensive alternative. It is difficult to reprogram, and the cost of a replacement key may be expensive.
You can find an auto-locksmith local to you who is familiar with the model you drive if you don't want to go to the dealership. They are more likely to more affordable in their quote and be more reliable that a dealership. Some offer mobile services, where they will come to your office or home to cut and program keys for you.
