How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
Losing your car keys can be costly and frustrating. The cost of replacing them is contingent on the location and what kind of key you've made.
Locksmiths can typically duplicate traditional keys for less than $10. However, a lot of newer vehicles are equipped with transponder chips that must be programmed at the dealership. Keys that are laser cut and blades are more expensive, and require an appointment with a dealer.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
If you lose your car keys it can be stressful and frustrating. If you have a spare car key and know what kind of key you lost, it can be simpler to duplicate. If you have an older mechanical key for instance, a locksmith could probably make a duplicate fairly quickly and easily. To copy more advanced keys, you will need specific knowledge. They also have to be programmed, meaning you'll likely have go to your local dealer to purchase a new one.
The type of key lost will also determine the cost of replacing it. The cost of replacing a traditional mechanical key that is fitted into the ignition cylinder is less than that of the key fob which 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 an expert or do it yourself may affect the cost of replacing your car key as well. Professionals cost more than DIY methods, but can save you time and frustration. They also have the most knowledge of your specific model of car.
It's a good idea to replace the car key. You must be aware of all the variables that determine the cost of your car key replacement so that you can plan for the future.
Find an auto-locksmith in your area to receive an estimate of the cost of your car key. They'll be able to give you an estimate based upon the make and model of your vehicle. They'll have the equipment to perform a great job. Roadside assistance is another option however it is costly. You should also note 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 your keys to your car was not a huge deal. It was easy to get your car towed by roadside assistance, obtain the replacement key and get back on the road in no time. As cars advanced in technology, so have their keys. This makes them more expensive to replace.
The best way to save money is to avoid going to the dealership, except if you require a replacement key fob, key remote, or transponder chip keys. Find a local independent locksmith or key replacement shop that can provide OEM keys or 3rd-party ones for only a fraction of the cost. Many of these shops offer an online search tool to aid you in finding a shop near you.
You should also try to find a service that can cut and program a standard key since they're generally cheaper than a dealer. The disadvantage is that they may not have the key you require and might need to order it for you. If they have the key, you can expect to spend between $200 and $350.
Some dealers offer in-house service for replacing car keys and other lockout issues, but they're still more expensive than a locksmith or independent service. This is especially applicable to top car brands like Ford Chevy Toyota and Chrysler. Key chips and fobs are more complex and expensive to replace than other manufacturers'.
If you end up at a dealership, make sure to inquire if there are any warranties that cover lockouts. If so, calling the dealership to mention the warranty may help you save money. They may even be capable of sending an emergency locksmith to your address to unlock your vehicle and create a new key on the spot. This is a great solution if you can't afford to wait days for the dealership to make the key and install it. You can cut costs by up to 50% by using an independent locksmith rather than the dealership service center.
Independent Locksmiths
Aside from being incredibly stressful, losing your car keys can also be costly. Independent locksmiths are the most cost-effective option to replace keys that have been lost. They are less expensive than dealerships and do not have as much overhead costs.
If you already have a working key the cost of a new key will vary. If you do the latter, the cost will be much lower since the copy can be made using the key that is currently in use and doesn't need to be programmed. Typically, older mechanical keys that do not have a transponder chip in them can be copied for $10 or less.
Modern electronic key fobs, on the other hand are more expensive to duplicate because they require programming to work with your vehicle's system. Depending on your car's make and model the process could be as simple as entering the code or as intricate as using a specific decryptor to modify the key for proper operation.
It is also important to remember that the location of the vehicle can influence the cost of a new key. If you're stranded in the middle of nowhere, it can be more costly to replace your car key because there's no person nearby to help. In this type of situation, most people depend on assistance from the roadside however it can be expensive and only cover a small portion of the cost.
When you are calculating the cost of replacing a key, it is important to keep in mind that a lot of locksmiths are independent and offer discounts to new customers or those who refer their services to others. They do this as they want their business to expand and rely more on word-of mouth marketing, rather than costly advertisements.
One final suggestion: always have an extra car key. This will spare you the burden of replacing the key that was lost, and it will be cheaper than trying to replace it at the last minute. In addition, if you're concerned about the expense of replacing your car keys, try calling your insurance provider for more information on their conditions and terms. Certain insurance companies provide the option of a fee to replace lost keys.
Key Replacement
There are many factors that could impact the cost of a new key for your vehicle, whether you've lost yours or require a replacement. You should first write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car. This will help you to determine the best place to go to obtain the replacement key. This number is located on the driver's dashboard or in the owner's manual.
Depending on the year, model and model of your car depending on the year, make and model of your car, you may need go to a dealership to obtain a new key, especially if it contains an electronic transponder chip. The chips need to be programmed to work, as they communicate with the vehicle to begin it. This is accomplished using special equipment, which is typically only available at dealerships and cost up to $200 for an entirely new fob and key.
If your car has a traditional key with no transponder chips You should be able to find a locksmith that can duplicate it at a lesser cost. It could cost as low as $10 for one set of keys or $150 based on the type.
Some keys are more difficult to duplicate and more expensive. A switchblade key, which folds up into a fob, is usually more expensive than any other kind of key because it requires more effort to create. Smart keys, which rely on proximity sensors to unlock the car's door, are also a costly option. It can be difficult to reprogram and will cost you the most for a replacement key.
If replacement keys to afford going to a dealership for your new key, you can look for an auto locksmith in your neighborhood who specializes in the brand of vehicle you drive. They are more likely to more affordable in their quote and be more reliable that dealerships. Some even offer mobile services that allow them to visit your workplace or at home to cut and program keys for you.