How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
It can be a hassle and expensive to lose your car keys. The cost of replacing them depends on where and what type of key you have made.
Locksmiths can usually copy traditional keys for less than $10. However, the majority of modern automobiles use transponder chip technology that must be programmed at the dealership. Keys that are laser cut and blades are more expensive and require an appointment with a dealer.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
When you lose your car keys, it can be an extremely stressful and frustrating. If you have an extra car key and you are aware of what type of key you lost, it can be easier to duplicate. If you have an older mechanical key, for instance, a locksmith could probably make a duplicate fairly quickly and easily. However, more advanced types of keys require specialized skills to copy. These keys also need to be reprogrammed, so you'll have to visit your dealer to obtain a replacement.
The type of key lost will also determine the cost to replace it. For instance, traditional mechanical keys that insert into the ignition cylinder are less expensive to replace than a key fob, with a transponder that must be programmed. The latter will also typically cost more to replace if it comes with a switchblade key or other special features.
The decision to replace your key with the assistance of a professional or do it yourself could affect the cost of replacing your car keys as well. Professionals will usually charge more than DIY methods, but they can save you time and frustration. They will also have the most experience with your specific type of vehicle.
While getting a car key replaced can be costly however, it's worthwhile in the long in the long. It's recommended to familiarize yourself with the factors that affect the cost to be able to plan your budget accordingly.
Find a local auto-locksmith to get an estimate on the cost of your car key. They will be able provide you with a quote based upon the specific model of your car and model. They will have the necessary equipment to do a good job. Another option is to contact roadside assistance, however this can be more costly. It's important to note that your insurance provider may provide this service as part of your policy. However it's not a guarantee that they will provide the services you need.
Dealerships
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing your keys to your car or loosing keys was not a huge problem. It was easy to have your vehicle towed by roadside assistance, get a replacement key and be back on the road in a short time. As cars advanced in technology, so have their keys. This makes them more costly to replace.
The most efficient way to save money is to avoid going to the dealer except if you require a replacement key fob, key remote, or transponder chip keys. Instead, look for an independent locksmith or car key replacement shop that offers OEM or third-party keys at much less cost. A lot of these shops provide an online search tool to help you locate a store close to you.
It's also worth looking for a shop that can cut and program standard keys, since they are typically less expensive than dealerships. They might not have your type of key in stock and you'll need to purchase it. If they do have the key you need expect to spend between $220 and $350 for the replacement and programming.
Some dealers offer in-house service for replacing car keys and other lockout problems, but they're still more expensive than a locksmith or an independent service. This is especially relevant for popular car brands such as Ford Chevy Toyota and Chrysler. The key fobs and chip replacements are more expensive and complicated for these manufacturers.
If you end up at a dealership, make sure you inquire if there are any warranties that cover lockouts. If they do, calling the dealership and mentioning the warranty might help reduce your bill. It is possible to get a mobile locksmith sent to your area who will unlock the vehicle on the spot and create a new key. This is a great solution when you do not have patience 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 visiting an independent locksmith instead of the dealership's service center.
Independent Locksmiths
In addition to being extremely stressful losing your car keys can also be expensive. Independent locksmiths are the most economical way to replace lost keys. They are cheaper than dealerships and don't have as many 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 an existing key it will cost much lower since it can be copied from that key without having to be programmed. Keys that were mechanical before the transponder can be copied for less than $10.
Modern electronic keys, on the other hand are more expensive to duplicate as they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle's system. This process can vary depending on the model and make of your vehicle. It can be as easy or as complicated as entering a code, or using an encryption device.
It is also important to remember that the location of the vehicle can influence the cost of a new key. If you're stuck in the middle of nowhere, having your car key replaced can be more costly since there isn't anyone nearby to assist you with the process. Most people in this situation depend on roadside assistance, but it can be costly and only cover a small portion of the cost.
One thing that can be helpful to remember when calculating the cost of replacing your keys is that many locksmiths who are independent offer discounts on their services for new customers or those who recommend them 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 costly advertisements.
A final suggestion to always keep an extra car key. This will save you the hassle of having to replace the key that was lost, and is less expensive than trying to do so at the last minute. If Read the Full Report concerned about the cost to replace your car key, call your insurance provider and ask for more information. Some insurance companies offer a premium to cover keys that are lost.
Replacement Keys
There are a variety of factors that could impact the cost of a new key for your car, regardless of whether you've lost your key or need to replace one. It is important to note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car. This will allow you to determine where to go to find a replacement key. This number can be found on the driver's dashboard or in the owner's manual.
You might need go to a dealer to obtain a new key when yours is equipped with an electronic transponder. These chips need to be programmed in order to communicate with the vehicle to begin it. This is done using special equipment, which is typically only available through dealerships and can cost as much as $200 for a new fob and key.
If your car has an old-fashioned key that does not have transponder chips You should be able to locate a locksmith who will duplicate it for a much lower price. Depending on the kind of key, this can be as little as $10 or even $150 for an entire set of keys replacement.
Certain keys are more difficult to duplicate and therefore more expensive. If you own a switchblade key that folds into the fob, this can be more expensive than other keys because it requires more effort to create. Smart keys, which use proximity sensors to unlock the car door, are also a costly alternative. It is difficult to reprogram, and the price of a replacement key can be costly.
You can find an auto-locksmith local to you who is familiar with the model you own if you don't need to visit the dealership. They are likely to provide a less expensive estimate and will be more reliable than a dealership would be. Some provide mobile services where they'll visit your home or office to cut keys and program them for you.