How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
Losing your car keys can be frustrating and expensive. The cost to replace them depends on the type of key and the location where it is made.
Traditional keys can usually be copied by locksmiths for less than $10, but many newer cars use transponder chips that must be programmed by the dealer. Keys cut with lasers and switchblade keys are even more expensive and require an excursion to the dealer.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
Losing your car keys could be stressful and frustrating. However, if you own an additional key and know the kind of car key you lost, the process can be a bit easier. If you have an older mechanical key for instance, a locksmith will probably make a duplicate fairly quickly and easily. To duplicate more sophisticated keys, you'll require special skills. auto key replacement need to be programmed, meaning you'll probably have visit your dealer to purchase a new key.
The type of lost key will also determine the cost of replacing it. The cost of replacing a conventional mechanical key that is put into the ignition cylinder is less than a key fob that has transponder, which needs to be programmed. Key fobs will typically cost more to replace if it has the switchblade key, or other specialized features.
The decision to replace your key with the help of an expert or DIY could have an impact on the cost of replacing your car keys as well. Professionals are more expensive than DIY methods, but can save you time and frustration. They also have the most experience with your specific type of vehicle.
It's worth the expense to replace a car key. It's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the elements that influence the price to be able to plan your budget in advance.
The best method to figure out the price your car key will cost is to locate an auto locksmith near you. They can provide you with a quote based upon the particular car model and model. They will have the necessary equipment to complete the job. Another option is to contact roadside assistance, however this is more expensive. It's worth noting that your insurance provider may offer this service as a part of your policy. However it's not a guarantee that they'll provide the services you require.
Dealerships
It wasn't long ago that misplacing your keys to your car or loosing them was not a big deal. You could just contact roadside assistance to get your car taken to the dealer, pick up a new key and be back on the road in a matter of minutes. But as cars have become more technologically advanced as well, so do their keys, making them more costly to replace.
The best way to save money is to not go to the dealership unless you require a new key fob, key remote, or transponder chip keys. Instead, search for an independent locksmith or key replacement shop that sells OEM or third-party keys at much less cost. A lot of these shops provide an online search tool that can aid you in finding a shop close to you.
You should also try to find a place that can cut and program a standard key because they're typically cheaper than a dealership. The downside is that they may not have the type of key you require in stock and might need to order it for you. If they do have the key you require, expect to spend between $220 and $350 for replacement and programming.
Some dealers offer in-house services for replacing keys to cars and other lockout issues, however they're still more expensive than a locksmith or independent service. This is especially relevant to the most well-known automobile brands like Ford, Chevy, Toyota and Chrysler. Key chips and fobs are more complicated and expensive to replace than other brands'.
If you 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. You might be able to have an emergency locksmith to your location. They will unlock your car on the spot and create a new key. This is a great solution when you don't have the patience to wait for your dealer to install and order your key. Additionally, you may be able to save up to 50% by going to an independent locksmith instead of the dealership's service center.
Independent Locksmiths
In addition to being extremely stressful, losing your car keys can also be costly. Independent locksmiths are the most economical option to replace keys that have been lost. They are cheaper than dealerships and don't have as many overhead costs.
The cost of a replacement key could be different depending on whether or there is an existing working key to copy from. If you have it the latter, the cost will be much less as a copy can be made using the current key and does not need to be programmed. Most of the time, mechanical keys that do not include a transponder chip them can be copied for a price of $10 or less.
On the other side, modern electronic key fobs are more expensive to duplicate as they require programming to work with your car's system. This process can vary depending on the model and make of your vehicle. It can be as easy or as complex as entering a number or using an encryption device.
In the end, it is important to consider the location of your vehicle can also impact the cost of obtaining a new key. If you're stuck in the middle of nowhere, getting your car keys replaced can be more costly since there may not be anyone close to help with the procedure. In this type of situation, most people depend on assistance from the roadside however, it can be costly and only cover a small portion of the cost.
One thing that could be helpful when you calculate your replacement key cost is that a lot of locksmiths will offer discounts for their services to first-time customers or those who recommend them to others. This is due to the fact that they are looking to expand their business and rely on word of mouth marketing as opposed to costly advertisements.
One final suggestion: always have a spare car key. This will avoid the headache of replacing a key that has been lost, and will be less expensive than trying to do so at the last moment. If you're worried about the cost to replace your car key, contact your insurance company and inquire about the cost. Some insurance companies offer a premium to cover keys that are lost.
Key Replacement
Whether you lost your key or simply need to replace one that is old, there are a number of factors that will factor into the cost of purchasing the new car key. It is important to note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle. This will allow you decide the best place to go to obtain the replacement key. The VIN number is on the driver's dashboard or in your vehicle's owner's manual.
You may need to visit a dealer to obtain a new key when yours is equipped with an electronic transponder. These chips communicate with the vehicle in order to start it, so they must be programmed in order to work. This is done using special machines that are usually only available through the dealership and can cost up to $200 for a new key and fob.
If your car has an old-fashioned key with no transponder chips, a locksmith will be able duplicate it at a lower price. This could cost as little as $10 for keys or up to $150, depending on the kind.
Some keys are more difficult to duplicate and therefore more expensive. A switchblade key, which folds into fobs, is typically more expensive than other type of key, because it requires more effort to make. Smart keys, which make use of proximity sensors to open the car door, are also a costly alternative. It can be difficult to reprogram and will cost the most money for the replacement key.
You can locate an auto-locksmith local to you who is familiar with the model you own if you don't prefer to visit the dealership. They are likely to provide a less expensive quote and be more reliable than a dealership. Some provide mobile services, where they'll visit your home or office to cut and program keys for you.