How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
Losing your car keys can be costly and frustrating. The cost of replacing them is dependent on the type of key you have and the location where it is made.
Locksmiths can usually copy traditional keys for less than $10. However, the majority of modern automobiles use transponder chip technology that need to be programmed by the dealership. Keys that are laser cut and blades are more expensive, and require an appointment with the dealer.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
Losing your car keys could be stressful and frustrating. If you have a spare car key and you are aware of the type of key you lost, it can be more straightforward to duplicate. A locksmith can make a copy of a key that was made in the past quite quickly and easily for instance. However, more advanced types of keys require specialized skills to copy. They also need to be programmed, which means you'll likely have visit your dealer to get a new one.
The type of key that is lost will also determine the cost of replacing it. For instance, traditional mechanical keys that insert into the ignition cylinder are less expensive to replace than a key fob which has a special transponder that must be programmed. It is more expensive to replace the key fob if it is equipped with a switchblade, or other special features.
The decision to replace your key with the assistance of a professional or DIY could 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 most expertise in your particular type of vehicle.
It's worth the expense to replace a car key. You should familiarize yourself with all the factors that will affect the cost of replacing your car key to be able to plan ahead.
The best way to determine the cost of your car key will cost is to locate a local auto locksmith. They'll be able to provide an estimate based upon the model and make of your car. They will have the necessary equipment to do a good job. Another option is calling roadside assistance, however this can be more costly. Also, you should know that your insurance provider might include this service in your policy. However, it's not always an assurance that they will offer the services you require.
Dealerships
In the past the loss or misplacement of your keys to your car was not a huge deal. You could simply contact roadside assistance to get your car taken to the dealer, pick up an alternative key, and be back on the road in no time. But as cars have become more technologically advanced as well, so do their keys, which makes them more costly to replace.
The most efficient way to save money is to avoid going to the dealership, unless you require a new key fob, key remote, or transponder chip keys. Instead, search for an independent locksmith or car key replacement shop that offers OEM or third-party keys for a fraction of the cost. Many of these shops have an online search tool that can help you find the nearest store.
You should also try to locate a shop that can cut and program a standard key, since they're generally less expensive than a dealership. They might not have your type of key on hand and will have to purchase it. If they do have the key you need expect to pay between $220 and $350 for replacement and programming.
Some dealers offer in-house service to replace car keys and other lockout issues, but they're still more expensive than a locksmith service or an independent service. This is especially applicable to top car brands like Ford Chevy Toyota and Chrysler. The key fobs and chips are more complicated and expensive to replace than other manufacturers'.
If you find yourself at a dealership, be sure to inquire whether there are any guarantees that cover lockouts. If so, calling the dealership to mention the warranty can help you save money. They may even be in a position to send an emergency locksmith to your home to unlock the vehicle and create a new key right there. This is a great option if you aren't able to wait for days for the dealership to make your key and then install it. You can cut costs by up to 50% by using an independent locksmith instead of the dealership's service center.
Independent Locksmiths
The loss of your car keys is not just stressful, but can also be expensive. Independent locksmiths are the most economical option to replace keys that have been lost. They are cheaper than dealerships and don't 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 less since a copy can be made from the key that is currently in use and doesn't require programming. Most of the time, mechanical keys that do not have a transponder chip in them can be copied for less than $10.
Modern electronic keys, on the other hand, are more expensive to duplicate since they require programming to be compatible with your vehicle's system. Based on the model and make, this process can be as simple as entering the code or as intricate as utilizing a decryptor to modify the key to function properly.
It is also important to note that the location of the vehicle can affect the cost of a new key. If you are stranded in the middle of nowhere, having your car keys replaced can be more costly since there might not be any one close to help with the process. This is because many people who are in this situation rely on roadside assistance, but these services can be costly and will usually only cover a portion of the costs involved.
When making a decision on the cost of a replacement key, it is crucial to remember that many locksmiths who are independent offer discounts to first-time clients or those who refer their services to others. They do this because they want their business to expand and rely more on word-of-mouth marketing rather than expensive advertising.
Another tip is to always keep a spare key, as it will not only spare you from the headache of dealing with lost car keys, but it will also be much cheaper than trying to replace lost keys at the last minute. If you're concerned about the cost to replace your car key, contact your insurance provider and inquire about the cost. While they usually do not cover lost keys to cars, some of them do as a premium add-on.
Key Replacement
There are many factors that can affect the cost of an additional key for your car, regardless of whether you have lost yours or you need to replace it. You should first write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car. This will allow you to determine where to go to find the replacement key. This number is located on the dashboard of the driver or in your vehicle's owner's manual.
You may need to visit a dealer in order to obtain a new key when yours is equipped with an electronic transponder. These chips need to be programmed by communicating with the vehicle to allow it to start. This is done with special equipment, which is typically only available at dealerships and can cost as much as $200 for the new key and fob.
If your car is equipped with traditional keys that do not have transponder chips, a locksmith will be able duplicate it at a lower price. Depending on the kind of key, this can be as low as $10 or up to $150 for an entire set of keys replacement.
Other kinds of keys are more difficult to replicate and can be more expensive. If you own a switchblade key that folds into the fob, this is often more expensive than other types of keys because it is more labor-intensive to create. Another option that is expensive is a smart key which utilizes a proximity sensor to unlock the car door. It is difficult to reprogram, and the cost of a replacement key can be expensive.
You can locate an auto-locksmith in your area who is familiar with the brand that you drive if want to go to an auto dealer. They'll likely be able to give you a cheaper estimate and more reliable than a dealership. Some even offer mobile service that allow them to visit your workplace or home to cut and program your keys for you.