How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
The loss of your car keys can be frustrating and expensive. The cost to replace them is dependent on the type of key and the place where you purchase it.
Locksmiths can usually copy traditional keys for less than $10. However, a lot of newer vehicles are equipped with transponder chips that need to be programmed by the dealership. 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 can be stressful and frustrating. However, if you own an extra key and know what kind of car key you lost, the process can be a little easier. Locksmiths can create copies of a key that was made in the past quite quickly and easily for instance. To duplicate more sophisticated keys, you will need special knowledge. They also require to be programmed, which means you'll probably have to go to your dealership to get a new one.
The type of key lost will also determine the cost of replacing it. For example, traditional mechanical keys that are inserted into the ignition cylinder will cost less to replace than a key fob, with a transponder that must be programmed. It will also cost more to replace if it is equipped with the switchblade key, or other features that are specialized.
If you decide to replace your key with the assistance of an expert or DIY could have an impact on the cost of replacing your car keys as well. Professionals typically charge more than DIY methods however, they can save you time and frustration. They also have the most experience with the particular model of car.
While getting a car's key replaced can be expensive but it's worth it in the long in the long. You must be aware of all the factors that will affect the cost of replacing your car key so you can plan ahead.
The best way to figure out the price your car key will cost is to locate a local auto locksmith. They'll be able to provide an estimate based on the specific model and make of your car. They will also have the equipment needed to do a quality job. Roadside assistance is another option, but it can be expensive. It is important to note that your insurance company may include this service in your policy. However, it's not always a guarantee that they will offer the services you require.
Dealerships
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing your keys to your car or losing keys was not a huge issue. You could simply contact roadside assistance to get your car taken to the dealership, get a new key, and be back on the road in no time. As cars have evolved in terms of technology, so have the keys. This makes them more expensive to replace.
Avoiding the dealership is the best way to cut down on costs, unless you need a new key remote, transponder or key fob. Instead, find an independent locksmith or car key replacement shop that offers OEM or third-party keys at a fraction of the cost. Many of these stores have an online search tool that can help you locate an in-store.
It is also worth looking for a place to cut and program standard keys, since these are usually cheaper than dealerships. The disadvantage is that they might not have the key you require and may have to purchase it for you. If they do have the key you need, expect to pay between $220 to $350 for the replacement and programming.
Some dealers offer in-house services for replacing keys to cars and other lockout issues, but they're still more expensive than a locksmith or an independent service. This is especially applicable to popular car brands such as Ford Chevy Toyota and Chrysler. Key chips and fobs are more complex and expensive to replace than other manufacturers'.
If you do arrive at the dealership, make sure to check for any warranties that cover lockouts. If they do, calling the dealership and mentioning the warranty may help reduce your bill. It is possible to have a mobile locksmith delivered to your location. They will unlock your vehicle right there and create a new key. This is a great option when you don't have the 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 going to an independent locksmith instead of the service center at the dealership.
Independent Locksmiths
Losing your car keys is not just stressful, it can also be expensive. Independent locksmiths are the cheapest way to replace lost keys. They are less expensive than dealerships and do not have as much overhead costs.
The cost of a replacement key could depend on whether or not you have an existing working key to copy from. If you have one the latter, the cost will be much less since a copy can be made from the current key and not need to be programmed. Typically, old mechanical keys that do not contain a transponder chip them can be copied for a price of $10 or less.
Modern electronic key fobs however, are more expensive to duplicate as they require programming to integrate with the system of your vehicle. The process can differ based on the make and model of your vehicle. It could be as simple or complex as entering a number or using an encryption device.
It is also important to keep in mind that the location of the vehicle can affect the cost of a new key. If you're stranded in the middle of nowhere, it may be more expensive to replace your car keys since there isn't person nearby to help. This is because many people in this kind of situation depend on roadside assistance. However, these services can be pricey and typically only cover a small portion of the costs involved.
One thing that could be useful to keep in mind when calculating the cost of replacing your keys is that a lot of locksmiths will offer discounts on their services to first-time customers or those who recommend them to others. They do this as they want their business to expand and rely more on word of mouth marketing, rather than costly advertisements.
One final suggestion: always have a spare car key. This will spare you the burden of replacing keys that have been lost, and will be cheaper than attempting to do it at the last minute. If you are worried about the cost of replacing your car key contact your insurance provider for more details on their conditions and terms. Certain insurance companies provide the option of a fee to replace keys that are lost.
Replacement Keys
Whether you lost your key or simply need to replace one that is old there are a lot of things that can factor into the cost of getting a new car key. First, you should note the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle. This will help you to determine where to go to get an alternative key. This number can be found on the driver's side of your dashboard or in the owner's manual.
Based on replacement key fob car , model and model of your vehicle depending on the year, make and model of your car, you may need to go to a dealership to purchase an additional key, particularly when it has an electronic transponder chip. These chips communicate with the vehicle to start it, and therefore they need to be programmed to function. This is accomplished using special machines that are generally only available at dealerships and can cost up to $200 for a replacement fob and key.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key without transponder chips, a locksmith will be able to duplicate the key at a lower price. It could cost as little as $10 for a set of keys or as much as $150, depending on the kind.
Other kinds of keys are a little more difficult to replicate and could be more expensive. A switchblade key, which folds up into fobs, is generally more expensive than any other type of key because it requires more effort to create. Smart keys, which make use of the proximity sensor to open the car door, are a different costly alternative. It is difficult to reprogram and usually will cost the most money for an alternative key.
If you aren't able to afford going to a dealership to purchase your new key, seek out an auto locksmith in your neighborhood who is specialized in the type of vehicle you use. They are more likely to be able give you a lower quote and be more reliable than dealerships. Some even provide mobile services where they can come to your workplace or at home to cut and program the keys for you.