How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
Losing your car keys can be costly and frustrating. Read the Full Report of replacing them is contingent on the location and what kind of key you've created.
Traditional keys are usually copied by a locksmith for less than $10 but many newer cars use transponder chips which must be programmed by the dealer. Keys cut with lasers and blades are more expensive, and require an appointment with the dealer.
Model and Make of Your Vehicle
Losing your car keys can be frustrating and stressful. If you have an extra car key and know the type of key you lost, it may be simpler to duplicate. If you have an older mechanical key, for instance, a locksmith could likely make a duplicate quickly and easily. To copy more advanced keys, you'll need special knowledge. They also have to be reprogrammed, which means you'll have to visit your dealer to obtain a replacement.
The type of key that was lost will also determine the amount it costs to replace it. The cost of replacing a conventional mechanical key that is put into the ignition cylinder is much less than a key fob that has a transponder which must be programmed. It is more expensive to replace the key fob if it's equipped with a switchblade or other specific features.
The decision to replace your key with the assistance of an expert or do it yourself may affect the cost of replacing your car keys as well. Professionals are more expensive than DIY methods, but they can save you time and frustration. They'll also have the most knowledge of your specific model of car.
It's worth the cost to replace a car key. You should familiarize yourself with all the elements that determine the cost of replacing your car key to be able to plan ahead.
Find a local auto locksmith to obtain an estimate of the cost of your car key. They can provide you with a quote based upon the particular car model and make. They will have the necessary equipment to complete the 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 require.
Dealerships
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing your keys to your car or losing them was not a big problem. You could call roadside assistance, have your vehicle towed to the dealer, pick up a new key, and get back on the road in a matter of minutes. As cars have become more advanced in technology, so have their keys. This makes them more expensive to replace.
Avoiding the dealership is the best way to cut down on costs, unless you need the purchase of a new key remote key fob, or transponder key. Instead, search for an independent locksmith or car key replacement shop that sells OEM or third-party keys for much less cost. A lot of these shops have an online search tool that can help you find a nearby store.
It's also worth searching for a shop that can cut and program standard keys, as they're usually less expensive than dealerships. The downside is that they might not have the type of key you require and might need to order it for you. If they do have the key you need expect to pay between $220 and $350 for the replacement and programming.
Some dealers offer in-house service for replacing car keys and other lockout issues, however they're still more expensive than a locksmith or an independent service. This is particularly applicable to the most popular automobile brands, such as Ford, Chevy, Toyota and Chrysler. The key fobs and chip replacements are more costly and complex for these brands.
If you find yourself at the dealership, make sure to check for any warranties that cover lockouts. If so, calling the dealership to mention the warranty can help you save money. They may even be capable of sending an mobile locksmith to your address to unlock the car and make a new key on the spot. This is a great option for when you aren't able to wait for days for the dealership to order your key and then install it. In addition, you may be in a position to save as much as 50% by visiting an independent locksmith instead of the service center of the dealership.
Independent Locksmiths
In addition to being extremely stressful, losing your car keys could be costly. The most affordable option to replace a lost key is to look for an independent locksmith, as they are usually cheaper than going to a dealership and don't have the same overhead expenses.
If you already have a working key, the cost of a new key will vary. If you have an existing key, the cost will be less since it can be copied from that key without the need to be programmed. Typically, older mechanical keys that don't include a transponder chip them can be copied for $10 or less.
On the other hand, modern electronic key fobs are a lot more expensive to duplicate since they require programming to integrate with the car's system. Depending on your car's make and model the procedure can be as simple as typing the code or as intricate as using a special decryptor to reprogram the key for proper operation.
It is also important to keep in mind that the location of the vehicle could impact the cost of a new key. If you are stranded in the middle of nowhere, getting your car key replaced can be more expensive as there isn't anyone nearby to assist you with the procedure. In this type of situation, most people rely on roadside help however, it can be expensive and 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 independent locksmiths will offer discounts for their services to first-time customers or those who recommend them to others. They do this because they want their business to grow and rely more on word of mouth marketing than expensive advertisements.
A final suggestion is to always keep an extra key on hand, since it will not only spare you from the stress of dealing with lost car keys however, it will cost less than trying to replace a lost key at the last minute. If you're concerned about the cost of replacing your car key, call your insurance company and inquire about the cost. Although they typically do not cover lost car keys, some of them provide it as a premium extra.
Key Replacement
There are a variety of aspects that could affect the cost of the new key for your car, whether you have lost yours or require a replacement. The first thing you should do is write down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) which will aid you in determining where you'll need to go in order to get an additional key. This number is found on the driver's side of your dashboard or in the owner's manual.
You may have go to a dealer to obtain a new keys when yours is equipped with an electronic transponder. These chips must be programmed to function, as they communicate with the vehicle to start it. This is done with special machines, which are usually only available at dealerships. They can cost as much as $200 for an entirely new fob and key.
If your car has traditional keys that do not have transponder chips You should be able to locate a locksmith who will duplicate it for a much cheaper price. It could cost as low as $10 for a set of keys or up to $150, depending on the kind.
Other types of keys are more difficult to replicate and could be more expensive. A switchblade key, which folds down into a fob, is usually more expensive than any other kind of key because it takes more work to make. Another expensive option is a smart lock, which utilizes proximity sensors to unlock the car door. It is difficult to reprogram, and the cost of a replacement key may be expensive.
If you aren't able to afford going to a dealership to purchase your new key, you can try to find a local auto locksmith who is knowledgeable about the brand of vehicle you drive. They are more likely to be capable of offering a lower price and will be more reliable than a dealership. Some even offer mobile services that will come to your workplace or at home to cut and program keys for you.