Factors That Influence the Cost For Replacement Car Key
Losing keys to your car can be a nightmare. The cost of a replacement key can differ based on the kind of vehicle and the kind of key.
Find out which type of car key you have. Certain models with modern keys that can only be changed by a dealership.
The model and make of your vehicle
The days when you could walk into an hardware store and purchase duplicate car keys that cost pennies are over. Today's key fobs are miniature electronic devices that contain everything from an battery and RF transmitter to printed circuit boards and transponder chips that are specifically designed for keys. As a result, they are much more secure than traditional keys, and more expensive to replace in the case of damage or loss.
The model and make of your vehicle will eventually determine how much you'll pay for a replacement key for your car. In general, the more old keys, the less expensive it will cost. The older keys are essentially metal models that work by turning the ignition cylinder. They don't need any special technology. Keys can be changed at a reasonable price by an automotive locksmith, or purchased from a dealer or parts store.
The newer cars have advanced safety and technology features, like a smart key that locks and unlocks the doors from a distance and a proximity sensor that can start the engine. These can only be programmed by a professional with special equipment. This type of device is typically only available at dealerships.
Laser-cut keys are a different kind of high-tech key that requires special equipment to make an extra. They are more robust and have more grooves and ridges that increase durability and security. The price of a laser-cut key is often a little more than that of a standard key for cars, but it could be significantly more expensive if it comes with a transponder chip.
You could pay between $100-850 dollars for a new car key, depending on the model and make of your vehicle. This does not include charges, taxes, or extra costs that could be related to the purchase. Generally, the best alternative for obtaining the replacement key is to contact an auto locksmith because they have competitive rates and usually offer a functioning copy in a short amount of time. You can also reach out to roadside assistance providers. However, they may be more expensive and less reliable.
The type of key
Many people are unaware that car key duplication costs can vary based on the kind of key you own. While a classic double-edged metal car key is easily replaced at a local hardware store for less than $10, modern key fobs require expert programming to ensure they function with your specific vehicle. This is why it's important to locate a reliable locksmith who offers mobile service, and that will have the right tools and software to make keys for you on the spot.
Transponder keys are required to operate in the most recent vehicles. They can be bought at the dealership or auto parts stores. They're more expensive to duplicate and program, because they require a specific machine that's typically only available through the dealer. This makes them the most expensive type of key to replace.
Laser-cut keys are also difficult to replicate, and they're often more expensive than traditional key kinds too. car replacement keys require a machine only found at dealerships to make the distinct cuts in the blank keys. They can add $50 or more to the price of a new key.
Switchblade keys can be expensive and difficult to duplicate. These are the keys that you've seen your friends playing with. They fold into their keyfobs. They can be exchanged for $150 or even more by a locksmith but are much harder to take.
Smart keys are among the most expensive car keys. They use radio frequency to connect with your car's computer. They are the most advanced and secure keys, however they are also the most expensive. They can cost up to 600 dollars. It's best to talk with your locksmith, dealer or mechanic about the different kinds of car keys and the cost to replicate or program them.
The location of your vehicle
The days of buying an extra key for your car at a hardware shop for less than $10 have passed. It can cost as high as $160 to replace a key dependent on the type of key you need. Here are the factors that affect the cost of replacing keys:
The make and model of your vehicle will have the biggest influence on the price for a replacement car key. The cost of duplicates or repair a key on an older model vehicle could be higher than an older model. This is because they have modern technology. Also, some cars require special tools to cut the blades that are key to the car which can add up to the total cost of replacement.
Most cars have a remote key fob, which is a device that lets you lock and unlock your vehicle from an extended distance. It can be useful in rainy or hazardous areas, but it is prone to damage or theft. The key fob can be reset by an automotive locksmith or your local dealer for cars.
Key fobs can be connected to your smartphone so that you can start your car with your smartwatch or other device. These kinds of key fobs are usually the most expensive to replace, as they require a specific software code that only the manufacturer is able to provide.
The location where you live can also impact the price of a replacement key for your car. Prices may be higher in large cities or rural areas and with various types of locks. Certain locks are difficult to cut or open and require more expertise and training.
A locksmith or a car dealer is able to duplicate a standard car key that has chip for a reasonable price. If you have keys that are more advanced, you'll have to take it to the dealer to have it replaced.
The majority of dealerships charge a fee however their services are usually more reliable and could save you time and money. Moreover, the price of a car key fob can be covered by your auto insurance policy, however it is crucial to review the terms of your policy prior to making an claim.
The tow truck or locksmith
Key replacement for cars isn't a pleasant experience, but it's less painful with the proper information. You'll need to know what kind of key you own, the locksmith or tow truck that will provide the service, and how much it will cost. Check to see if you are covered by your car insurance or warranty.
A traditional double-edged key can usually be repaired for about $10 at a hardware store. You can even get an exact copy made at home if you have lost the original key. If you have a more technologically advanced key, like a key fob with transponder keys or switchblade keys it is necessary to visit an expert locksmith for your vehicle. They'll need the model and year of your vehicle, proof of ownership (like the title or registration) and an additional key. If you have an ignition key fob with a switchblade, it may need special programming. Only a dealer is capable of doing this.
You'll have to program a laser-cut keys or a key that has a built-in transponder chip in the event that you own one. On average it will cost about $150 to $225. It is more expensive to have it done at a dealership, however you'll be able to be able to avoid the hassle of waiting on a third-party to do the job.
If you try to remove a damaged or stuck key on your own may cause more damage to the lock and make the task more difficult. Contact a professional if you have an extra. They are familiar with the lock model and will have a backup plan in case of any issues.
It is important to note down your vehicle identification number, or VIN, prior to losing keys to your car. The VIN can be found in a variety of places such as on the dashboard on the driver's side of your car, under the hood of your engine or in the door jamb or in the trunk of your vehicle. The VIN can also be found on the papers that came with your vehicle or in your insurance policy.