How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
It is frustrating and costly to lose your car keys. The cost to replace them is dependent on the type of key you have and the location where it is made.
Locksmiths can typically duplicate traditional keys for less than $10. However, the majority of modern vehicles are equipped with transponder chips which must be programmed at the dealership. Keys that are laser cut and blades are more expensive, and require an appointment with the dealer.
Model and Make of Your Vehicle
Losing your car keys could be frustrating and stressful. However, if you own an additional key and know the kind of car key you lost, the process could be a bit more straightforward. Locksmiths can create duplicates of a mechanical key from the past quite quickly and easily for instance. However, more advanced types of keys require specific knowledge to be copied. These keys must also be reprogrammed, so you'll need to visit your dealer to obtain a replacement.
The type of key that was lost will also determine how much it costs to replace it. For instance, mechanical keys that insert into the ignition cylinder will cost less to replace than a key fob, that has a transponder that has to be programmed. It will cost more to replace the key fob, if it's equipped with a switchblade or other special features.
Whether you choose to replace your key with the help of a professional or do it yourself may affect the cost of replacing your car key as well. automotive key replacement are more expensive than DIY methods, but can save you time and frustration. They will also have the most expertise with your specific type of vehicle.
It's worth the cost to replace keys to your car. It's recommended to learn about the factors that determine how much it will cost so you can plan accordingly.
Find an auto-locksmith in your area to obtain an estimate of the cost of your car key. They will be able to provide an estimate based upon the model and make of your car. They'll also have the equipment needed to do a quality job. Another option is calling roadside assistance, but this can be more costly. It's important to note that your insurance company may offer this service as a part of your policy. However it's not an assurance that they will offer the services you require.
Dealerships
It wasn't too long ago that losing your keys to your car or losing them was not a big problem. You could just call roadside assistance to have your car towed to a dealership, purchase an alternative key, and be back on the road in a matter of minutes. As cars evolved in terms of technology and so have keys, which makes them more costly to replace.
The most efficient method to save money is to not go to the dealer unless you need a new key fob, key remote or transponder chip key. Look for an independent car key replacement shop or locksmith that can provide OEM or 3rd party keys at a fraction of the price. Many of these stores have an online search tool that can help you find a nearby store.
It is also worth looking for a shop that can cut and program standard keys, since they're usually less expensive than dealerships. They may not have your kind of key in stock and will have to order it. If they have the key, you can expect to spend between $200 and $350.
Some dealers offer in-house service for replacing keys to cars and other lockout issues, but they're still more expensive than a locksmith or independent service. This is especially true for the more popular brands of car, such as Ford, Chevy, Toyota, and Chrysler. The key fobs and chip replacements are more expensive and complicated for these manufacturers.
If you find yourself at the dealership, make sure to look for warranties that cover lockouts. If so, calling the dealership to mention the warranty can help you save money. They may even be able to send an emergency locksmith to your address to unlock the car and make a brand new key right there. This is a great option if you don't have the funds to wait days for the dealership to make your key and install it. You can cut costs by up to half by hiring 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. The most cost-effective option to replace a lost key is to find an independent locksmith, since they usually cost less than going to a dealership and don't have the same overhead expenses.
The cost of a replacement key can be different depending on whether or not you have an existing key that you can copy from. If you have an existing key that you have, the cost will be less since it can be copied from that key without having to be programmed. Keys that were mechanical before the transponder can be copied for less than $10.
On the other side, modern electronic key fobs are more expensive to duplicate because they require programming to work with your car's security system. The process can differ based on the model and make of your car. It could be as easy or complex as entering a code, or using an encryption device.
It is also important to note that the location of the vehicle can influence the cost of a new car key. If you are stranded in the middle of nowhere, having your car key replaced can be more costly as there isn't anyone close to help with the process. This is because most people who are in this situation rely on roadside assistance, however these services can be pricey and usually only cover part 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 offer discounts on their services for new customers or those who recommend them to others. They do this to encourage their business to grow and rely more on word-of-mouth marketing, rather than costly advertisements.
A final tip: always have a spare car key. This will save you the headache of replacing a key that has been lost, and will be cheaper than trying to do so at the last minute. If you're concerned about the cost to replace your car key, call your insurance provider and ask for more information. While they often do not cover lost keys to cars but some of them offer it as a premium addition.
Key Replacement
There are a myriad of factors that could impact the cost of an additional key for your car, whether you have lost yours or need to replace one. The first thing you should take note of your car's VIN (vehicle identification number), as this will help you determine the best location to obtain an additional key. The VIN number is on the dashboard of the driver or in the owner's manual.
You may have to visit a dealer to get a new key when yours is equipped with an electronic transponder. The chips need to be programmed to work in order to communicate with the vehicle to start it. This is done with special machines, which are typically only available through dealerships and cost up to $200 for a new fob and key.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key with no transponder chips You should be able to find a locksmith who can duplicate it at a cheaper price. It could cost as little as $10 for keys or as much as $150, depending on the kind.
Other kinds of keys are a little more difficult to duplicate and may be more expensive. If you have a switchblade key that folds into the fob it is usually more expensive than other key types, as it is more labor-intensive to make. Another expensive option is a smart key that uses proximity sensors to unlock the car door. It can be difficult to reprogram and usually will cost you the most for the replacement key.
You can locate an auto-locksmith local to you who is familiar with the brand that you drive if want to go to the dealership. They are more likely to capable of offering a lower quote and be more reliable than a dealership. Some provide mobile services, which means they'll come to your home or office to cut keys and program them for you.