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 may not be as expensive as you think.
The cost of purchasing a new car key is determined by various factors including the type of replacement key you need and the location you live in. Keys made of traditional design are the cheapest replacement car keys while smart keys are the most expensive.
Cost of Parts
The price will vary based on the type of key that you require. 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. The keys are costly to duplicate and replace, and are more difficult to steal.
The year, make and model of your car can also impact the cost. Newer cars may have transponder chips that must be paired with the car by a dealer or auto locksmith. That means that the spare key needs to be programmed to work with the car. This could cost as much as $200. The cost of replacement keys can also be affected by:
Auto locksmiths are often the most expensive, but they lack the equipment to handle advanced 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 may be a challenge if you do not have the appropriate tools. You can also contact roadside assistance for a new key. However, they will take your vehicle to a dealer, and the process could take a few days.
If you own a newer key fob, the best way to reduce your costs is to purchase all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. But this is becoming more and more difficult since many key fobs have security features to guard against theft. Numerous companies offer software to make keys. However, these are only available as an option to customers who have service contracts. Most locksmiths will not open vehicles that have had their locks forced or altered. If you’re able to use wire hangers or some other method to open the car, that will also signal red flags to insurance companies.
Cost of Labor
The kind of car key you require will determine the amount it will cost to replace. For less than $10, a standard double-edged key can be duplicated in the local hardware store. To program and create more advanced keys, you will need special equipment. This could significantly increase the cost of replacing your car key.
You’ll also need a brand new key fob in case your car uses one to start and unlock it. This can run up to $200, depending on the model and brand of your vehicle. Furthermore, many of the newer models also include a transponder inside the key that needs to be replaced and programmed to work correctly. This is a cost that is hard to estimate prior to the moment when the key is lost car keys replacement cost uk and has to be replaced.
To make a new replacement key, a specially-designed cutting machine will also be required. They are costly and aren’t readily available to people who do not have an auto repair shop. The key housing also needs to be replaced, which could increase the cost of a replacement key.
Depending on the kind of car key you have, you may have to purchase other replacement parts as well. Some key fobs, for instance, include features like panic or remote lock/unlock buttons that can increase overall costs. Furthermore, certain key fobs need a battery which can be expensive to replace.
It is advisable to make an extra car key before you lose the original one. This will lessen the anxiety that comes with losing keys and ensure that you always have a functioning backup. If you need an additional key, you should look for a locksmith or a car key replacement dealer equipped to work with your car. This will be less expensive than buying a new key from the dealership and should allow you to avoid some of the high costs associated with these alternatives.
If you own a key that requires programming, you must keep a record of the immobilizer code or the key number in case you need to get it reprogrammed in the future. 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 automobiles have key fobs that lock, unlock and start the vehicle with just one button. These devices are convenient, however they can be costly to replace if they become lost or damaged. Fortunately, locksmiths can save you money by replacing these kinds of keys without the added expense of replacing the device itself. However, there are several aspects to take into consideration when it comes to determining the cost of replacing a car key.
The Year, Make and Model of the vehicle
There are a variety of keys for cars, from simple laser cut keys to switchblade keys. These keys are difficult to duplicate due to being distinct. This is especially the case for modern car keys, which have transponders in them that need to be programmed to the vehicle. This can be done by a professional, but will cost more than a regular key copy.
Another aspect that could affect the cost of replacing a car key is the model of car. Keys for older cars that are basic cost less to replace. However the most modern automobiles require a specific device that can cost upwards of $500 to replace.
The type of key and the location of the vehicle can also affect the cost of a replacement car key fob replacement key. If you lose your keys in a remote location, you could be charged more for towing your car to the nearest dealership to get a new key programmed. This expense can be reduced by keeping an extra key in a safe location such as at home or work.
It is also important to remember that most of the time, a new car key has to be programmed by a dealer. This is because most main dealers don’t offer mobile key programming facilities and are able to do this in their workshop. It can be expensive when you lose your sole set of keys. So, it’s better to keep a spare set on you.
Cost of Replacement Keys
You might need to purchase replacement keys from an automotive locksmith near me car key replacement or dealer, depending on the make and models of your vehicle. Before you do this, make sure to check the type of your car’s keys and if it comes with a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can raise the cost of replacing your car’s keys.
A classic car without a keyfob is cheap and can be duplicated at an area hardware store for less than $25. It is recommended to keep a spare in case you lose the original.
The latest cars come with a key fob that emits an electronic signal to unlock and start the car. It can be a challenge to replace when it’s lost in the event that you lose it, since you’ll need to contact the manufacturer for a new one and pair it with your vehicle. The cost of a typical key fob replacement could vary between $50-$150.
In certain instances you may be able to have your key fob replaced at the dealership so long as you prove ownership with proof of registration or title. Dealers may charge an additional cost to cover travel expenses and time spent at a remote location. Alternately, you can purchase an aftermarket key online or even directly from the manufacturer. This may be less expensive, but it is also more risky as the quality of the keys can’t be assured.
Do not attempt to hack into your car using wire hangers or force. This could set off alarms and make it harder for a locksmith to unlock the door. This could also cause damage to the lock and lead to additional charges for a complete repair or replacement. If you’re able to locate your car keys, it could be worth the extra expense to have them copied by an auto specialist instead of the dealership. This could save you lots of money, particularly if you have an extra key in your home.