How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
It can be a hassle and expensive to lose your car keys. The cost to replace keys is contingent on the type of key and the place where you purchase it.
Locksmiths are usually able to copy traditional keys for less than $10. However, many newer automobiles use transponder chip technology which must be programmed at the dealership. Laser cut keys and key blades are more expensive and require an appointment with a dealer.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
The loss of your car keys can be a stressful and frustrating experience. However, if you have an extra key and know what kind of car key you lost, the process could be a bit easier. If you have an older mechanical key for instance, a locksmith will likely make a duplicate quickly and easily. However, more advanced kinds of keys require specialized skills to copy. They also need to be programmed, meaning you'll probably have to go to your dealership to purchase a new key.
The kind of key lost will also determine how much it costs to replace it. The cost of replacing a conventional mechanical key that is inserted into the ignition cylinder is less than the cost of replacing a key fob that has a transponder which must be programmed. It will also cost more to replace if it has the switchblade key, or other specialized features.
The decision to replace your key with the assistance of a professional or do it yourself may affect the cost of replacing your car key as well. Professionals are more expensive than DIY methods, but can save you time and frustration. They will also have the best knowledge with your specific type of vehicle.
While getting a car key replaced is costly but it's worth it in the long run. You should familiarize yourself with all the elements that determine the cost of your car key replacement so you can plan ahead.
The best way to figure out the price your car key will cost is to locate an auto locksmith in your area. They can provide you with a quote based on the particular car model and the make. They'll have the equipment to do a good job. Another option is to call roadside assistance, but this is more expensive. Also, you should know that your insurance provider might include this service in your policy. It's not a guarantee however, that they'll provide the services you require.
Dealerships
A few years ago having lost or misplaced your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could simply contact roadside assistance to get your car taken to the dealership, get an alternative key, and get back on the road in no time. But as cars have advanced in technology, so too have their keys - and that makes them more costly to replace.
Avoiding sources is the best way to cut down on costs, unless you need a new key remote, key fob or transponder key. Instead, find an independent locksmith or key replacement shop that sells OEM or third-party keys for much less cost. A lot of these shops have an online search tool that will help you locate the nearest store.
You should also find a place that can cut and program a standard key, since they're generally less expensive than a dealership. The drawback is that they might not have the key you need in stock and may need to order it for you. If they do have the key you require, expect to spend between $220 and $350 for the replacement and programming.
Some dealers offer in-house service to replace car keys and other lockout issues, however they're still more expensive than a locksmith service or an independent service. This is especially applicable to the most popular brands of car, such as Ford, Chevy, Toyota and Chrysler. The key fobs and chip replacements are more expensive and complex for these brands.
If you do end up at the dealership, make sure to inquire about any warranties that cover lockouts. If you do, contacting the dealership to inform them of the warranty may help you save money. You might be able to have an emergency locksmith to your area who will unlock your vehicle right there and make a replacement key. This is a great solution when you do not have the time to wait for your dealership to make and install 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
The loss of your car keys is not only stressful, but can also be expensive. Independent locksmiths are the most economical way to replace lost keys. They are cheaper than dealerships and do not have as many overhead costs.
If you already have a working key the cost of a new key will vary. 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. replacement key for car near me that are older and without a transponder can be copied for less than $10.
On the other the other hand, modern electronic keys fobs are a lot more expensive to duplicate since they require programming to integrate with your car's security system. The process can differ based on the make and model of your vehicle. It could be as simple or as complicated as entering a code, or using decryptors.
It is also important to keep in mind that the location of the vehicle can impact the cost of a new car key. If you're stuck in the middle of nowhere, getting your car key replaced can be more expensive as there may not be anyone near to assist with the procedure. The majority of people in this scenario depend on roadside assistance however, it can be costly and only cover a small portion of the cost.
One thing that can be useful to keep in mind when calculating your replacement key cost is that a lot of locksmiths will offer discounts for their services for first-time customers or those who recommend them to others. They do this because they want their business to expand and rely more on word-of-mouth marketing rather than expensive advertising.
A final suggestion make sure you have an extra car key. This will spare you the hassle of having to replace a key that has been lost, and it will be cheaper than attempting to do it at the last moment. If you're worried about the cost to replace your car key, contact your insurance company and ask for more information. Certain insurance companies provide an additional fee to replace lost keys.
Key Replacement
There are many aspects that could affect the cost of the new key for your car, regardless of whether you have lost yours or require a replacement. You should first write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle. This will help you decide the best place to go to obtain an alternative key. This number can be found on the dashboard of the driver or in your vehicle's owner's manual.
You may need go to a dealer to obtain a new key in the event that yours has an electronic transponder. These chips must be programmed to function in order to communicate with the vehicle in order to allow it to start. This is done with special machines that are generally only available through the dealership and can cost upwards of $200 for a new key and fob.
If your car is equipped with traditional keys that do not have transponder chips, you should be able to locate a locksmith who will duplicate it at a cheaper price. It could cost as low as $10 for keys or $150 depending on the type.
Other kinds of keys are more difficult to replicate and could be more expensive. If you have a switchblade type 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 key that uses the proximity sensor to open the car door. It can be difficult to reprogram and will cost the most money for an alternative key.
If you don't have the luxury of going to a dealer for your new key, you can look for an auto locksmith in your neighborhood who is knowledgeable about the brand of vehicle you drive. They are more likely to be more affordable in their price and will be more reliable than dealers. Some even offer mobile service that will come to your home or workplace to cut and program the keys for you.