The Cost of a Replacement Car Key

Losing your car keys could be a very frustrating experience. It's important to keep in mind that a replacement car key may not cost more than you think.

The cost of purchasing a new car key is determined by several factors including the type of replacement key you need and your location. The traditional keys are the most affordable and the smart keys are more expensive.

Cost of parts

Depending on what kind of key you require the price will depend on the type of key you require, the cost can vary. Standard keys that have no transponder chips can be copied for between $50 to $110. If you require a keyfob with a chip or a push to start vehicle that requires a second fob, the costs will increase. Those types of keys can be costly to duplicate or replace, and are difficult for car thieves to gain access to.

The cost can also be affected by the year, model and year of vehicle you own. The transponder chip that is used in newer vehicles will have to be programmed with an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that a replacement key will need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle, which could cost up to $200. Other factors that affect the cost of replacement keys are:

Auto locksmiths are often the most expensive, but they lack the equipment to handle advanced key fobs or vehicles. You can try to copy a basic key by yourself at a hardware store, however, the process takes a long time and may be a challenge in the absence of the right tools. You can also seek roadside assistance to assist you get a replacement key, but they will likely take your vehicle to a dealership and the process could take several days to complete.

If you have a newer key fob, the best way to cut costs is to purchase all-in one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. But this is becoming more and more difficult since many key fobs have security features that prevent theft. Many companies have software programs that can be used to create keys, however these are typically only available to customers who have service contracts or as a courtesy through the dealership. Trying to bypass these restrictions can lead to problems, as most locksmiths will not allow cars to be opened if they are forced or altered with. If you're able use wire hangers or some other method to open the vehicle and then set off red flags for insurance providers.

Cost of Labor

The kind of car key you need will determine how much it will cost to replace. For less than $10, a standard double-edged key can be duplicated in the local hardware store. However, more advanced keys require specialized equipment to make and program. This can significantly increase the total cost of replacing a car key.

You'll also need a brand new key fob if the vehicle is equipped with one to unlock it and start it. It can cost as high as $200, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Many newer vehicles use transponders inside the key, which needs to be programmed and replaced in order to work properly. This is a cost that is difficult to estimate before the key is lost and must be replaced.

To create a replace for modern car keys transponders, which must be programmed into the vehicle. This can be done by a professional, but will cost more than a standard key copy.

Another aspect that could affect the cost of replacing a car key is the model of car. Older cars with basic keys cost less to replace. However the most modern automobiles require a specific device that can cost upwards of $500 to replace.

The type of key and the location of the car may influence the cost of a new key. You could be charged more to tow your car to the nearest dealership in case you lose your keys in an area unknown. This expense is prevented by keeping an extra key in a safe place like at home or at work.

It is also important to know that, most times keys for new cars must be programmed at the dealer. This is because the majority of dealers do not provide mobile key programming and can only offer this service in their workshop. It can be expensive in the event that you lose your primary set of keys. So, it's better to keep a spare set with you.

Cost of Key Replacement

You may need to buy replacement keys from an auto locksmith or dealer, depending on the make and models of your vehicle. Check your vehicle's key to see if it has a transponder or smart key chip. These technologies can increase your car key replacement cost.

A typical car that doesn't have a keyfob is inexpensive and can be duplicated at an area hardware store for less than $25. It's best to have an extra in the event that you lose your original.

Modern cars keys replacement have a key fob that emits an electronic signal to unlock and start the car. This could be a big issue to replace in the event that it is lost, as you'll have to contact your car manufacturer for a new key and pair it with your vehicle. The cost of a replacement key fob ranges between $50 and $125.

In certain cases, you can have a key fob repaired at the dealership as long as you can prove ownership with proof of registration or title. However, the dealer might still charge an extra fee for the service to cover travel expenses and time spent in a remote location. Alternatively, you can buy an aftermarket key online, or even directly from the vehicle manufacturer. This may be less expensive but it's more risky due to the fact that the quality of the keys cannot be guaranteed.

Don't attempt to break into your car using wire hangers or force. This could trigger alarms and make it harder for locksmiths to open the door. This could also result in damage to the lock, which could cause cost-intensive repairs or replacements. If you are able to locate your car keys, it could be worth the extra cost to have them cloned by an auto technician instead of at the dealership. This could save you money, especially if there is a spare car key at home.