How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
It can be a hassle and expensive to lose your car keys. The cost to replace them is dependent on the type of key and the location where it is made.
Traditional keys are usually copied by locksmiths for less than $10 but many newer cars use transponder chips which must be programmed by the dealer. Keys that are laser cut and blades are more expensive, and require an appointment with the dealer.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
When you lose your car keys, it can be stressful and difficult. If you have an extra car key and you are aware of the type of key you lost, it could be easier to duplicate. If you have an older mechanical key for instance, a locksmith can likely make a duplicate quickly and easily. To duplicate more sophisticated keys, you'll need specific knowledge. They also need to be programmed, meaning you'll probably have go to your local dealer to get a new one.
The kind of key lost will also affect the amount it costs to replace it. For example, traditional mechanical keys that are inserted into the ignition cylinder will cost less to replace than a key fob which has a special transponder that has to be programmed. It is more expensive to replace the key fob if it is equipped with a switchblade, or other particular features.
The cost of replacing your car keys can depend on whether you replace it yourself or with the help by a professional. Professionals will usually cost more than DIY methods however, they can save you a lot of time and frustration. They will also have the best knowledge regarding your specific vehicle.
While having a car key replaced can be costly, it's worth it in the long run. It is important to be aware of all the variables that affect the cost of replacing your car keys so that you can plan for the future.
Find a local auto-locksmith to get an estimate on the cost of your car key. They can provide you with a quote based on the specific model of your car and model. They will have the equipment to complete the job. Roadside assistance is another option however it is expensive. It's also worth noting that your insurance provider may offer this service as part of your policy. It's not a guarantee, however, that they'll provide the services you require.
Dealerships
It wasn't long ago that losing your keys to your car or loosing them was not a big deal. It was simple to get your vehicle tow by roadside assistance, pick up an alternative key and be back on road in no time. But as cars have advanced in technology as well, so do their keys - and that makes them more costly to replace.
Avoiding the dealership is the most efficient way to cut expenses, unless you need the purchase of a new key remote key fob, or transponder key. Instead, find an independent locksmith or key replacement shop that offers OEM or third-party keys at a fraction of the cost. Many of these shops have an online search tool that can help you locate an in-store.
It's also worth looking for a location to cut and program standard keys, as these are usually cheaper than dealerships. They may not have your type of key in stock and will have to purchase it. If they do have the key you require expect to spend between $220 to $350 for the replacement and programming.
Some dealers offer in-house services for replacing car keys and other lockout problems, but they're still more expensive than a locksmith or independent service. This is particularly true for famous car brands like Ford Chevy Toyota and Chrysler. Key fobs and chip replacements are more expensive and complicated for these manufacturers.
If you find yourself at a dealer, make sure to inquire whether there are any warranties that cover lockouts. If they do, then calling the dealership and mentioning the warranty may aid in reducing your bill. They might even be in a position to send an emergency locksmith to your location to unlock your vehicle and create a new key right there. This is a great option if you aren't able to wait for days for the dealership to order your key and install it. You can cut costs by up to 50% by using an independent locksmith rather than the service center of the dealership.
Independent Locksmiths
Apart from being extremely stressful losing your car keys can be expensive. The most cost-effective option to replace keys that have been lost is to find an independent locksmith, since they are usually cheaper than going to the dealership and don't have the same overhead costs.
If you already have a working key, the cost of a new key will vary. If you do this, it will cost less since a copy can be made using the key that is currently in use and doesn't require programming. Typically, old mechanical keys that don't include a transponder chip them can be copied for less than $10.
On the other the other hand, modern electronic keys fobs are more expensive to duplicate because they require programming to integrate with the car's system. Depending on your car's make and model the procedure can be as easy as entering the code or as complex as using a specific decryptor to modify the key for proper operation.
Lastly, it is important to note that the location of your vehicle could also impact the cost of obtaining an alternative key. If you're stranded in the middle of nowhere, it could be more expensive to replace your car key since there isn't person nearby to help. The majority of people in this scenario depend on assistance from the roadside however, it can be costly and only cover a fraction of the cost.
One thing that is useful to keep in mind when calculating your replacement key cost is that many independent locksmiths offer discounts on their services to first-time customers or those who recommend them to others. This is because they wish to expand their business and rely on word-of-mouth marketing, as opposed to expensive advertisements.
One final suggestion to always keep an extra car key. This will spare you the burden of replacing a key that has been lost, and will be less expensive than trying to do so at the last minute. Additionally, if you are concerned about the cost of replacing your car key, try calling your insurance company for more information on their terms and conditions. Although they typically do not cover lost keys to cars but some of them offer it as a premium addition.
Replacement Keys
There are a variety of factors that could impact the cost of the new key for your car, regardless of whether you've lost yours or you need to replace it. The first thing you should note down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) to assist you in determining where you'll need to go to obtain a new key. The VIN number is located on the driver's side of your dashboard or in the vehicle owner's manual.
car keys replacements might need to visit a dealer to get a new key when yours is equipped with an electronic transponder. These chips communicate with the vehicle to start it, and therefore they need to be programmed to function. This is accomplished using special machines that are usually only available at the dealership and can cost up to $200 for a new fob and key.
If your car is equipped with traditional keys that do not have transponder chips, you should be able to find a locksmith that can duplicate it for a much lower price. It could cost as little as $10 for keys or as much as $150 depending on the type.
Other types of keys are more difficult to duplicate and may be more expensive. If you own a switchblade key that folds into the fob, this is often more expensive than other keys, as it requires more work to make. Another expensive option is a smart lock, which utilizes a proximity sensor to unlock the car door. It is difficult to reprogram, and the price of a replacement key may be costly.
If you aren't able to afford going to a dealership to purchase your new key, seek out a local auto locksmith who is specialized in the type of car you drive. They are more likely to be able give you a lower quote and be more reliable that a dealership. Some even offer mobile services that will come to your home or workplace to cut and program keys for you.