How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
The loss of your car keys can be difficult and costly. The cost to replace them is dependent on the type of key and where you get it made.
Traditional keys are usually copied by a locksmith for less than $10, however, many modern cars have transponder chips which must be programmed by the dealer. Keys that are laser cut and blades are more expensive, and require a visit to the dealer.
Model and Make of Your Vehicle
Losing your car keys could be stressful and frustrating. If you have a spare car key and you are aware of the type of key you lost, it can be more straightforward to duplicate. A locksmith can make duplicates of a mechanical key from the past fairly quickly and easily, for example. However, more advanced types of keys require specialized knowledge to be copied. auto key replacements have to be reprogrammed. You'll be required to visit a dealer to purchase a new one.
The type of key lost will also determine the cost of replacing it. The cost of replacing a conventional mechanical key that is inserted into the ignition cylinder is much less than that of the key fob which has transponder, which needs to be programmed. The latter will also typically cost more to replace if it is equipped with the switchblade key, or other special features.
The cost of replacing your car keys could depend on the method you choose to replace it yourself or with the help of a professional. Professionals charge more than DIY methods, but can save you time and frustration. They will also have the most expertise regarding your specific vehicle.
While getting a car's key replaced is costly however, it's worthwhile in the long term. You should familiarize yourself with all the factors that will affect the cost of replacing your car keys to be able to plan ahead.
The best way to figure out how much your car key will cost is to find an auto locksmith near you. They can give you an estimate based on the specific model and make of your vehicle. They will have the equipment to complete the job. Roadside assistance is another option however it is expensive. It's important to note 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 need.
Dealerships
Not too long ago the loss or misplacement of your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could call roadside assistance to have your car taken to the dealership, get an alternative key, and get back on the road in a matter of minutes. As cars become more advanced in technology, so too have their keys. This means they are more expensive to replace.
Avoiding the dealership is the most efficient way to cut costs, unless you require a new key remote, key fob or transponder key. Find a local independent locksmith or key replacement shop that offers OEM keys or 3rd-party ones for a fraction of the price. Many of these stores offer an online search tool that can help you locate a store near you.
You should also try to find a place that can cut and program a standard key, since they're generally cheaper than a dealer. The drawback is that they might not have the type of key you need in stock and may need to order it for you. If they do have the key you require, expect to be paying between $220 and $350 for replacement and programming.
Dealers may provide in-house services to replace car keys or solve other lockout issues However, these are more expensive than a locksmith that is independent. This is especially true for the more popular brands of car, such as Ford, Chevy, Toyota, and Chrysler. Their key fobs and chips are more complex and costly to replace than other manufacturers'.
If you do arrive at the dealership, be sure to inquire about any warranties that cover lockouts. If they do, then calling the dealership and mentioning the warranty may lower your cost. It is possible to have a mobile locksmith sent to your location who can unlock your vehicle on the spot and make a replacement key. This is a great option for when you can't afford to wait days for the dealership to order the key and install it. In addition, you may be saving up to 50% by going to an independent locksmith instead of the service center of the dealership.
Independent Locksmiths
Losing your car keys is not only stressful, but can also be costly. Independent locksmiths are the most economical way to replace lost keys. They are cheaper than dealerships 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 have an existing key, the cost will be less since it can be copied from the key without needing to be programmed. Typically, older mechanical keys that do not have a transponder chip in them can be copied for a price of $10 or less.
Modern electronic key fobs, however, are more expensive to duplicate because they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle's system. The procedure can differ based on the make and model of your car. It could be as simple or complex as entering a number or using an encryption device.
It is also important to note that the location of the vehicle can influence the cost of a new key. If you are stranded in the middle of nowhere, getting the car key replaced could be more costly since there isn't anyone nearby to assist you with the procedure. This is because the majority of people who are in this position rely on roadside assistance, however the cost of these services can be expensive and typically only cover a portion of the costs involved.
One thing that is helpful when you calculate the cost of replacing your key is that many locksmiths who are independent will offer discounts for their services for first-time customers or those who recommend them to others. They do this to encourage their business to grow and rely more on word-of mouth marketing rather than expensive advertising.
A final suggestion is to always have an extra key in case of loss, as it will not only spare you from the stress of dealing with the loss of a car key, but it will also be much cheaper than trying to replace lost keys at the last minute. If you're concerned about the cost to replace your car key, contact your insurance provider and inquire about the cost. While they usually do not cover lost car keys however, some offer it as a premium addition.
Replacement Keys
There are many aspects that could affect the cost of an additional key for your car, regardless of whether you have lost yours or require a replacement. First, you should note the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle. This will allow you decide where to go to find an alternative key. This number can be found on the dashboard of the driver or in the owner's manual.
Based on the year, make and model of your car depending on the year, make and model of your car, you may need go to a dealership in order to get a new key, especially if it contains an electronic transponder chip. These chips communicate with the vehicle in order to start it, so they must be programmed to work. This is done with special machines, which are typically only available through dealerships and can cost as much as $200 for an entirely new fob and key.
If your car only has traditional keys that do not have transponder chips, a locksmith should be able duplicate it at a lower price. It could cost as little as $10 for keys or $150, depending on the kind.
Other kinds of keys are a little more difficult to replicate and could be more expensive. A switchblade key, which folds into fobs, is generally more expensive than any other type of key, because it requires more effort to make. Smart keys, which use proximity sensors to unlock the car door, are another expensive option. It is difficult to reprogram, and the cost of a replacement key could be high.
You can find an auto-locksmith in your area who is familiar with the model you drive if you don't want to go to the dealership. They'll likely be able to provide a less expensive estimate and more reliable than a dealership. Some provide mobile services, which means they'll come to your home or office to cut and program keys for you.