How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
It's a pain and a cost to lose your car keys. The cost to replace them depends on where and what kind of key you've created.
Traditional keys can usually be copied by a locksmith for less than $10, but many newer cars use transponder chips which must be programmed by the dealer. Laser cut keys and switchblade keys are even more expensive and require an appointment with the dealer.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
Losing your car keys could be a stressful and frustrating experience. If you have an extra car key and you know the type of key you lost, it can be easier to duplicate. If you have an older mechanical key for instance, a locksmith could likely make a duplicate quickly and easily. To duplicate more sophisticated keys, you will need specific knowledge. These keys must also be reprogrammed, so you'll be required to visit a dealer to obtain a replacement.
The type of lost key will also determine the cost to replace it. For example, traditional mechanical keys that insert into the ignition cylinder will cost less replace than a key fob, with a transponder that needs to be programmed. It will cost more to replace the key fob, if it's equipped with a switchblade, or other particular features.
The decision to replace your key with the assistance of an expert or do it yourself could affect the cost of replacing your car key as well. Professionals charge more than DIY methods, but will save you time and frustration. They also have the most experience regarding your specific vehicle.
While getting a car key replaced is costly however, it's worthwhile in the long term. You must be aware of all the elements that determine the cost of your car key replacement so you can plan ahead.
The best method to determine the cost of your car key will cost is to locate an auto locksmith in your area. They will be able to give you an estimate based upon the make and model of your car. They'll also have the tools to finish the job. Roadside assistance is another option however it can be expensive. It is important to note that your insurance provider might include this service in your policy. However it's not an assurance that they will provide the services you require.
Dealerships
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing your keys to your car or loosing them was not a big problem. You could just contact roadside assistance to get your vehicle towed to a dealership, purchase a new key and be back on the road in no time. As cars evolved in terms of technology, so too have their keys, which makes them more costly to replace.
The most efficient method to save money is to not go to the dealership unless you need a new key fob, key remote or transponder chip keys. Find a local independent locksmith or shop for replacement keys that can provide OEM or 3rd-party keys for only a fraction of the cost. Many of these stores offer an online search tool to aid you in finding a shop close to you.
You should also try to find a service that can cut and program a standard key, since they're generally less expensive than a dealership. The drawback is that they might not have the type of key you need in stock and might need to order it for you. If they have the key, you can expect to pay between $200 and $350.
Dealers might offer in-house services to replace keys for cars or fix other lockout issues however, they are more expensive than a locksmith who is independent. This is especially relevant for famous car brands like Ford Chevy Toyota and Chrysler. Key chips and fobs are more complex and costly to replace than other brands'.
If you do end up at a dealership, make sure you inquire whether there are any guarantees that cover lockouts. If so, calling the dealership to mention the warranty can help you save money. They might even be in a position to send an mobile locksmith to your home to unlock your car and make a new key on the spot. This is a great option if you do not have the patience to wait for your dealership to set up and make your key. You can cut costs by up to half by using an independent locksmith rather than the dealership's service center.
Independent Locksmiths
Losing your car keys not just stressful, but can also be expensive. Independent locksmiths are the cheapest method of replacing keys lost. They are less expensive than dealerships and don't have as much overhead costs.
If you already have a working key, the cost of a new key can vary. If you have an existing key it will cost much lower since it can be copied from the key without the need to be programmed. Most of the time, mechanical keys that do not include a transponder chip them can be copied for a price of $10 or less.
On the other hand, modern electronic key fobs are much more expensive to duplicate because they require programming to work with your car's security system. The procedure can differ based on the model and make of your vehicle. It can be as easy or as complex as entering a code, or using a decryptor.
In the end, it is important to remember that the location of your vehicle can also impact the cost of obtaining a new key. If you are stranded in the middle of nowhere, getting your car keys replaced can be more costly since there isn't anyone close to help with the procedure. In this type of situation, most people depend on assistance from the roadside however it can be expensive and only cover a fraction of the cost.
When calculating the cost of replacing a key, it is important to keep in mind that a lot of locksmiths are independent and offer discounts to first-time clients or to those who recommend their services to others. This is due to the fact that they want to grow their business and rely on word-of-mouth marketing, as opposed to expensive advertising.
A final suggestion is to always have a spare key, as this will not only save you from the hassle of dealing with lost car keys, but it will also be much cheaper than trying to replace a lost key at the last minute. If you're concerned about the cost to replace your car key, contact your insurance company and inquire about the cost. Although they typically do not cover lost car keys, some of them offer it as a premium addition.
Key Replacement
Whether you lost your key or you simply want to replace an older key there are a lot of factors that could be factored into the cost of acquiring an entirely new car key. The first thing you need to take note of your car's VIN (vehicle identification number), as this will aid you in determining the best location to get an additional key. This number can be found on the dashboard of the driver or in the owner's manual.
Depending on auto key replacement , model and model of your vehicle, you may need to visit a dealer to purchase new keys, particularly in the case of an electronic transponder chip. These chips must be programmed to function, as they communicate with the vehicle to start it. This is done with special equipment, which is typically only available through dealerships. They can cost as much as $200 for a new key and fob.
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key with no transponder chips, a locksmith should be able to duplicate the key at a lower price. It could cost as low as $10 for a set of keys or as much as $150 based on the type.
Other kinds of keys are a little more difficult to duplicate and may be more expensive. If you own a switchblade key that folds into the fob, this can be more expensive than other types of keys as it is more labor-intensive to create. Another option that can be costly is a smart lock, that uses the proximity sensor to open the car door. It is difficult to reprogram, and the price of a replacement key may be high.
If you do not have the luxury of going to a dealership for your new key, you can try to find a local auto locksmith who specializes in the brand of vehicle you use. They are likely to give you a cheaper estimate and will be more reliable than a dealership. Some provide mobile services where they'll visit your home or office to cut keys and program them for you.