How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
It is frustrating and costly to lose your car keys. The cost to replace them is contingent on the location and what type of key you have made.
Locksmiths can typically duplicate traditional keys for less than $10. However, the majority of modern vehicles use transponder chip technology that need to be programmed by the dealership. Laser cut keys and switchblade keys are more expensive and require a trip to the dealership.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
When you lose your car keys it can be a stressful and difficult. However, if you own an extra key and know what kind of car key you lost, the process could be a bit more straightforward. A locksmith can make a copy of a mechanical key from the past fairly quickly and easily such as. To copy more advanced keys, you'll require specific knowledge. They also have to be reprogrammed, so you'll be required to visit a dealer to purchase a new one.
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 much less than keys with an electronic transponder that must be programmed. The latter will also typically cost more to replace if it has a switchblade key or other special features.
If you decide to replace your key with the help of a professional or do it yourself may affect the cost of replacing your car keys as well. Professionals charge more than DIY methods but will save you time and frustration. They also have the best knowledge in your particular type of vehicle.
While getting a car's key replaced can be expensive however, it's worthwhile in the long run. You should familiarize yourself with all the factors that will determine the cost of your car key replacement to be able to plan ahead.
Find a local auto-locksmith to obtain an estimate of the cost of your car key. They'll be able to provide you with an estimate based on the specific model and make of your vehicle. They will also have the tools needed to finish the job. Roadside assistance is a different option however it is costly. It is important to note that your insurance provider may include this service in your policy. However it's not always an assurance that they will provide the services you require.
Dealerships
A few years ago, misplacing or losing your keys to your car was not an issue. It was easy to get your vehicle towed by roadside assistance, obtain an alternative key and be back on road in no time. As cars advanced in technology, so have their keys. This makes them more costly to replace.
Avoiding the dealership is the best way to cut down on costs, unless you need a new key remote, key fob or transponder key. Find an independent car locksmith or key replacement shop that offers OEM or 3rd party keys at only a fraction of the cost. A lot of these shops have an online search tool that can assist you in finding the nearest store.
You should also find a service that can cut and program a standard key as they're usually cheaper than a dealership. The downside is that they might not have the type of key you require and may have to purchase it for you. If they do have the key you need expect to be paying between $220 and $350 for the replacement and programming.
Dealers might offer in-house services to replace car keys or solve other lockout issues, but these are still more expensive than an independent locksmith. This is especially true for the more popular brands of car, such as Ford, Chevy, Toyota and Chrysler. Key fobs and chip replacements are more costly and complex for these manufacturers.
If you end up at a dealership, be sure to ask whether there are any warranties that cover lockouts. If they do, calling the dealership and mentioning the warranty could lower your cost. They might even be capable of sending an mobile locksmith to your home to unlock the vehicle and create a new key on the spot. This is a great option if you don't have the funds to wait days for the dealership to purchase your key and then install it. You can save up to 50% by using an independent locksmith rather than the dealership service center.
Independent Locksmiths
Losing your car keys not only stressful, but can also be expensive. Independent locksmiths are the cheapest way to replace lost keys. They are cheaper than dealerships and don't have as many overhead costs.
The cost of a replacement key could also vary depending on whether or there is an existing working key to copy from. If you have an existing key, the cost will be much lower as it can be copied from that key without the need to be programmed. Typically, older mechanical keys that don't contain a transponder chip them can be copied for $10 or less.
Modern electronic key fobs, on the other hand are more expensive to duplicate because they need to be programmed to integrate with the system of your vehicle. The process can differ based on the model and make of your vehicle. It can be as easy or as complex as entering a code or using decryptors.
It is also important to note that the location of the vehicle could affect the cost of a new car key. If you're stuck in the middle, it may be more expensive to replace your car keys because there may be no one in the vicinity to help. Most people in this situation rely on roadside help, but it can be expensive and only cover a fraction of the cost.
One thing that is useful to keep in mind when calculating the cost of replacing your key is that a lot of locksmiths will offer discounts on their services for new 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 instead of costly advertisements.
A final tip to always keep an extra car key. This will spare you the headache of replacing keys that have been lost, and it is less expensive than trying to do so in the last minute. In addition, if you're concerned about the expense of replacing your car key, try calling your insurance provider to find out more details about their terms and conditions. Some insurance companies offer the option of a fee to replace keys that are lost.
Key Replacement
There are a variety of factors that can affect the cost of an additional key for your vehicle, whether you've lost yours or need to replace one. It is important to note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car. This will allow you decide where to go to get a replacement key. This number is located on the driver's dashboard or in your vehicle's owner's manual.
car key fob replacement may have to visit a dealer to obtain a new key when yours is equipped with an electronic transponder. These chips communicate with the vehicle to start it, which is why they have to be programmed to work. This is done with special machines that are usually only available at dealerships and can cost upwards of $200 for a replacement fob and key.
If your car has a traditional key without transponder chips, a locksmith will be able to duplicate it at a lower price. This could cost as little as $10 for keys or $150 depending on the type.
Certain keys are more difficult to duplicate and are more expensive. If you own a switchblade key that folds into the fob, it is usually more expensive than other types of keys as it requires more effort to make. Another option that can be costly is a smart lock, which uses a proximity sensor to unlock the car door. It is difficult to reprogram, and the price of a replacement key may be high.
If you aren't able to afford going to a dealership to purchase your new key, look for an auto locksmith in your neighborhood who is specialized in the type of vehicle you use. They will likely be able to offer a lower quote and be more reliable than a dealership. Some provide mobile services, where they will come to your home or office to cut keys and program them for you.