How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
The loss of your car keys can be frustrating and expensive. The cost of replacing keys is contingent on the type of key and the location where it is made.
Locksmiths can typically duplicate traditional keys for less than $10. However, many newer vehicles use transponder chip technology that need to be programmed by the dealership. Laser cut keys and switchblade keys are more expensive and require an excursion to the dealer.
Model and Make of Your Vehicle
Losing your car keys could be a stressful and frustrating experience. However, if you have an additional key and are aware of the kind of car key you lost, the process may be a bit more straightforward. 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 special skills to copy. These keys must also 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 traditional mechanical key that is inserted into the ignition cylinder is less than that of a key fob that has a transponder which must be programmed. The latter will also typically cost more to replace if it has an ignition switchblade or other special features.
The cost of replacing your car keys may be affected by the method you choose to replace it yourself or with the help of by a professional. Professionals typically cost more than DIY methods however, they can save you a lot of time and frustration. They also have the most experience regarding your specific vehicle.
While having a car key replaced is costly however, it's worthwhile in the long run. You should familiarize yourself with all the elements that affect the cost of replacing your car keys so that you can plan for the future.
Find an auto-locksmith in your area to get an estimate on the cost of your car key. They can give you an estimate based on the specific model and make of your car. They'll have the equipment to do a good job. Roadside assistance is a different option however it is expensive. It's worth noting that your insurance company might provide this service as part of your policy. However it's not always a guarantee that they will provide the services you need.
Dealerships
A few years ago having lost or misplaced keys to your car wasn't a huge deal. You could simply call roadside assistance to have your car taken to the dealership, get a new key and get back on the road in no time. As cars have advanced in technology, so have their keys. This means they are more expensive to replace.
Avoiding the dealership is the best way to save on costs, unless you need an entirely new key remote, key fob, or transponder key. Instead, find an independent locksmith or car key replacement shop that sells OEM or third-party keys at less than the price. Many of these shops have an online search tool that will assist you in finding an in-store.
It is also advisable to locate a shop 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 need in stock and might need to order it for you. If they do have the key, you could expect to spend between $200 and $350.
Some dealers offer in-house service for replacing car keys and other lockout problems, but they're still more expensive than a locksmith or an independent service. This is particularly true for famous car brands like Ford Chevy Toyota and Chrysler. Key fobs and chip replacements are more expensive and complicated for these manufacturers.
If you do end up at a dealer, make sure you inquire whether there are any guarantees that cover lockouts. If they do, contacting the dealership to mention the warranty may help you save money. They might even be capable of sending a mobile locksmith to your location to unlock the car and make a brand new key right there. This is an excellent option for those who do not have time to wait for your dealer to install and order your key. Additionally, you may be in a position to save as much as 50% by visiting an independent locksmith instead of the dealership's service center.
Independent Locksmiths
Apart from being extremely stressful, losing your car keys can be costly. Independent locksmiths are the cheapest option to replace keys that have been lost. They are less expensive than dealerships and don't have the same overhead costs.
If you already have a working key, the cost of the new key will differ. If you have an existing key, the cost will be much lower since it can be copied from that key without needing to be programmed. Typically, old mechanical keys that don't have a transponder chip in them can be copied for $10 or less.
On the other side, modern electronic key fobs are much more expensive to duplicate since they require programming to integrate with the car's system. Based on the car's make and model, this process can be as easy as entering the code, or as complicated as using a special decryptor to modify the key to ensure proper operation.
It is also important to remember that the location of your vehicle could also impact the cost of acquiring an alternative key. If you're stuck in the middle of nowhere, getting your car key replaced can be more costly since there isn't anyone near to assist with the procedure. This is because many people in this situation rely on roadside assistance, but these services can be pricey and will usually only cover a portion of the cost.
One thing that is useful to keep in mind when calculating your replacement key cost is that many locksmiths who are independent offer discounts on their services for new customers or those who recommend them to others. They do this to encourage their business to expand and rely more on word-of-mouth marketing rather than expensive advertising.
One final suggestion: always have an extra car key. This will avoid the headache of replacing the key that was lost, and it will be less expensive than trying to replace it at the last minute. If you're concerned about the cost of replacing your car key, call your insurance provider and ask for more information. Certain insurance companies provide an additional fee to replace keys that are lost.
Replacement Keys
There are a variety of factors that can affect the cost of the new key for your car, whether you have lost yours or need to replace one. The first thing you need to note down the VIN number of your car (vehicle identification number) which will aid you in determining where you'll need to go to obtain a new key. The VIN number is located on the driver's side of your dashboard or in the owner's manual.
You might need to visit a dealer to obtain a new keys in the event that yours has an electronic transponder. These chips communicate with the vehicle in order to start it, which is why they have to be programmed to function. This is done using special equipment, which is typically only available at dealerships and cost up to $200 for a new fob and key.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key without transponder chips, a locksmith should be able to duplicate it at a cheaper cost. Depending on the type of key, it could be as low as $10 or as high as $150 for a complete set of keys replacement.
Other types of keys are a little more difficult to replicate and can be more expensive. If you own a switchblade key that folds into the fob, it is usually more expensive than other key types because it requires more effort to make. Smart keys, which use a proximity sensor to unlock the car door, are also a costly alternative. It is difficult to reprogram, and the price of a replacement key could be costly.
There is an auto-locksmith local to you who is familiar with the model you own if you don't need to visit an auto dealer. They will likely be able to provide a less expensive estimate and will be more reliable than a dealership. Some provide mobile services where they'll visit your house or office to cut and program keys for you.