How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
Losing your car keys can be difficult and costly. The cost to replace them is dependent on the type of key you have and the location where it is made.
Locksmiths can usually copy traditional keys for less than $10. However, many newer vehicles use transponder chip technology that need to be programmed by the dealership. Keys cut with lasers and blades are more expensive, and require an appointment with the dealer.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
If you lose your car keys, it can be stressful and difficult. However, if you have an additional key and know the kind of car key you lost, the process can be a bit more straightforward. Locksmiths can make duplicates of an older mechanical key quite quickly and easily for instance. However, more advanced kinds of keys require specialized skills to copy. These keys must also be reprogrammed. You'll have to visit your dealer to obtain a replacement.
The type of key lost will also determine the cost of replacing it. For instance, mechanical keys that insert into the ignition cylinder will cost less replace than a key fob, which has a special transponder that needs to be programmed. It is more expensive to replace the key fob, if it's equipped with a switchblade or other particular features.
The cost of replacing your car keys may be affected by whether you replace it yourself or with the help of by a professional. Professionals usually charge more than DIY methods however they can save you time and frustration. They also have the most experience with your particular type of vehicle.
It's a good idea to replace keys to your car. You must be aware of all the factors that will impact the cost of your car key replacement so that you can plan for the future.
Find an auto-locksmith in your area to get an estimate on the cost of your car key. They'll be able to provide an estimate based on the specific model and make of your car. They will have the necessary equipment to do a good job. Another option is to contact roadside assistance, but this is more expensive. It is important to note that your insurance company may include this service in your policy. It's not a guarantee however, that they'll offer the services you require.
Dealerships
Not too long ago the loss or misplacement of your car keys wasn't an issue. You could contact roadside assistance to get your vehicle towed to a dealership, purchase an alternative key, and be back on the road in a matter of minutes. But as cars have become more technologically advanced, so too have their keys, making them more costly to replace.
The most efficient way to save money is to not go to the dealership, except if you require a replacement key fob, key remote or transponder chip key. Instead, search for an independent locksmith or key replacement shop that can provide OEM or third-party keys at less than the price. A lot of these shops provide an online search tool to assist you in finding a store close to where you live.
It is also advisable to find a service that can cut and program a standard-sized key, since they're generally cheaper than a dealer. They may not have your type of key in stock and you'll need to order it. If they do have the key, you should expect to be charged between $200 and $350.
Some dealers offer in-house service for replacing car keys and other lockout issues, but they're still more expensive than a locksmith service or an independent service. This is especially relevant to the most well-known automobile brands like Ford, Chevy, Toyota, and Chrysler. Key fobs and chips are more complex and expensive to replace than those of other manufacturers'.
If automotive car key replacement end up at a dealer, make sure to inquire whether there are any warranties that cover lockouts. If they do, then calling the dealership and mentioning the warranty could lower your cost. They may be able to send a mobile locksmith to your address to unlock your vehicle and create a new key on the spot. This is a great option if you do not have time to wait around for your dealer to install and order your key. Moreover, you might be in a position to save as much as 50% by visiting an independent locksmith instead of the dealership's service center.
Independent Locksmiths
The loss of your car keys is not just stressful, it can also be costly. Independent locksmiths are the most economical method of replacing keys lost. They are cheaper than dealerships and do not have the same overhead costs.
If you already have a working key, the cost of a new key can vary. If you have one, it will cost much lower since the copy can be made using the current key and not need to be programmed. Mechanical keys that are older and without a transponder can be copied for just $10.
On the other side, modern electronic key fobs are more expensive to duplicate since they require programming to integrate with your car's system. The procedure can differ based on the make and model of your car. It could be as simple or as complex as entering a code or using a decryptor.
It is also important to keep in mind that the location of the vehicle may impact the cost of a new car key. If you're stranded in the middle, it could be more expensive to replace your car key because there may be no one nearby to assist. This is because many people who are in this position rely on roadside assistance, however these services can be pricey and will usually only cover part of the cost.
When you are calculating the cost of replacing a key, it is crucial to keep in mind that many independent locksmiths offer discounts to new customers or those who recommend their services to others. They do this as they want their business to grow and rely more on word of mouth marketing than expensive advertisements.
Another tip is to always have an extra key on hand, since it will not only spare you from the stress of dealing with lost car keys, but it will also be much cheaper than trying to replace keys that have been lost at the last minute. If you're concerned about the cost of replacing your car keys, contact your insurance company and inquire about the cost. While they often do not cover lost car keys, some of them do as a premium add-on.
Key Replacement
Whether you lost your key or you simply want to replace one that is old there are a lot of factors that could be factored into the cost of getting the new car key. The first thing to do is write down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) which will assist you in determining where you'll need to go to obtain a new key. This number is found on the side of the dashboard that is on the driver or in the vehicle owner's manual.
Depending on the year, model and model of your car depending on the year, make and model of your car, you may need to visit a dealer to purchase a new key, especially in the case of an electronic transponder chip. These chips communicate with the vehicle to start it, and therefore they need to be programmed in order to work. This is accomplished using special machines that are generally only available at dealerships and can cost upwards of $200 for a new key and fob.
If your car has traditional keys that do not have transponder chips, a locksmith will be able to duplicate the key at a lower cost. It could cost as little as $10 for a set of keys or $150 based on the type.
Certain keys are more difficult to duplicate and are more expensive. A switchblade key, which folds down into a fob, is usually more expensive than other kind of key because it requires more effort to create. Another option that is expensive is a smart key which utilizes a proximity sensor to unlock the car door. It is difficult to reprogram, and the price of a replacement key could be expensive.
You can find a local auto-locksmith who is familiar with the brand you own if you don't prefer to visit the dealership. They are more likely to be more affordable in their estimate and are more reliable than dealerships. Some offer mobile services, where they'll visit your office or home to cut and program keys for you.