How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
It's a pain and a cost to lose your car keys. The cost of replacing them depends on where and what type of key you've created.
Locksmiths are usually able to copy traditional keys for less than $10. However, the majority of modern automobiles use transponder chip technology that must be programmed at the dealership. Laser cut keys and switchblade keys 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 a stressful and frustrating. However, if you own an additional key and are aware of the kind of car key you lost, the process can be a bit easier. A locksmith can make copies of an older mechanical key relatively quickly and efficiently for instance. To copy more advanced keys, you'll need special skills. These keys also need to be reprogrammed, so you'll be required to visit a dealer to get a replacement.
The type of key that was lost will also determine the amount it will cost to replace. The cost of replacing a traditional mechanical key that is fitted into the ignition cylinder is lower than that of a key fob that has a transponder which must be programmed. It will cost more to replace the key fob if it's equipped with a switchblade or special features.
Whether you choose to replace your key with the help of a professional or DIY could affect your car key replacement costs as well. Professionals typically cost more than DIY methods, but they can save you time and frustration. They'll also have the best experience with the particular model of vehicle.
While having a car key replaced can be expensive however, it's worthwhile in the long term. It is important to be aware of all the variables that impact the cost of your car key replacement to be able to plan ahead.
Find an auto-locksmith in your area to obtain an estimate of the cost of your car key. They can give you an estimate based on the specific make and model of your vehicle. They will have the necessary equipment to complete the job. Roadside assistance is a different option, but it can be costly. Also, you should know that your insurance provider may include this service in your policy. It's not a guarantee however, that they will provide the services you need.
Dealerships
Not too long ago the loss or misplacement of keys to your car wasn't a huge deal. It was simple to have your car towed by roadside assistance, pick up a replacement key and be back on the road in no time. As cars advanced in technology, so too have their keys - and that makes them more costly to replace.
Avoiding the dealership is the best way to save on costs, unless you need the purchase of a new key remote transponder or key fob. Instead, look for an independent locksmith or key replacement shop that sells OEM or third-party keys at less than the price. Many of these shops offer an online search tool that can help you locate a store near you.
You should also find a place that can cut and program a standard-sized key, as they're usually cheaper than a dealership. They might not have your type of key on hand, and will need to order it. If they do have the key you need, expect to pay between $220 and $350 for the replacement and programming.
Some dealers have in-house services for replacing keys to cars 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. Key fobs and chip replacements are more expensive and complicated for these brands.
If you do find yourself at the dealer, make sure to look for warranties that cover lockouts. If they do, contacting the dealership to mention the warranty could help you save money. You may be able to have an emergency locksmith to your location who can unlock your car on the spot and make a replacement key. This is a great option for those who do not have time to wait for your dealer to make and install your key. Additionally, you may be saving up to 50% by visiting an independent locksmith instead of the service center at the dealership.
Independent Locksmiths
Apart from being extremely stressful, losing your car keys could be costly. Independent locksmiths are the most economical method of replacing keys lost. They are cheaper than dealerships and don't have as many overhead costs.
The cost of a replacement key may depend on whether or whether you have an existing key that you can copy from. If you have an existing key, the cost will be less since it can be copied from the key without needing to be programmed. Older mechanical keys without a transponder can be copied for just $10.
Modern electronic keys, on the other hand, are more expensive to duplicate as they need to be programmed to integrate with the system of your vehicle. replacement auto key fob can vary depending on the make and model of your car. It could be as simple or as complicated as entering a number or using a decryptor.
It is also important to keep in mind that the location of the vehicle can affect the cost of a new key. If you are stranded in the middle of nowhere, getting the car key replaced could be more expensive as there may not be anyone nearby to assist you with the process. Most people in this situation rely on roadside help however it can be expensive and only cover a small portion of the cost.
One thing that can be helpful when you calculate the cost of replacing your key is that many independent locksmiths offer discounts on their services for new customers or those who recommend them to others. This is because they are looking to expand their business and rely on word-of-mouth marketing as opposed to costly advertising.
A final suggestion is to always have an extra key in case of loss, as this will not only keep you from the hassle of dealing with the loss of a car key however, it will be less expensive than trying to replace keys that have been lost at the last minute. If you're worried about the cost to replace your car keys, contact your insurance company and request more information. Some insurance companies offer the option of a fee to replace keys that are lost.
Replacement Keys
If you've lost your keys or simply need to replace one that is old there are a lot of factors that will factor into the cost of acquiring a new car key. You should first write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car. This will help you decide where to go to find a replacement key. This number can be found on the driver's dashboard or in the owner's manual.
Depending on the year, make and model of your car depending on the year, make and model of your car, you may need to go to a dealership in order to get an additional key, particularly when it has an electronic transponder chip. These chips communicate with the vehicle to begin it, and therefore they need to be programmed in order to function. This is done with special equipment, which is typically only available through dealerships. They can cost as much as $200 for an entirely new key and fob.
If your car only has traditional keys that do not have transponder chips, a locksmith should be able duplicate it at a lower cost. Depending on the kind of key, this can be as little as $10 or even $150 for a whole set of keys replacement.
Other types of keys are more difficult to duplicate and may be more expensive. A switchblade key, which folds up into fobs, is generally more expensive than any other kind of key because it requires more effort to make. Another option that can be costly is a smart lock, which uses proximity sensors to unlock the car door. It can be difficult to reprogram and usually will cost you the most for a replacement key.
There is an auto-locksmith local to you who is familiar with the model you drive if you don't want to go to a dealership. They are more likely to be more affordable in their price and will be more reliable than dealers. Some even provide mobile services that will come to your home or workplace to cut and program keys for you.