How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
Losing your car keys is costly and frustrating. The cost to replace them depends on where and what type of key you've made.
Locksmiths are usually able to 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 switchblade keys are even more expensive and require an excursion to the dealer.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
If you lose your car keys, it can be an extremely stressful and frustrating. If you have a spare car key and you are aware of the type of key you lost, it can be more straightforward to duplicate. A locksmith can make copies of an older mechanical key relatively quickly and efficiently, for example. However, more advanced types of keys require specific skills to copy. These keys must also be reprogrammed, so you'll have to visit your dealer to get a replacement.
The type of key lost will also determine the cost to replace it. For instance, traditional mechanical keys that are inserted 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 an expert or DIY could have an impact on your car key replacement costs as well. Professionals charge more than DIY methods but can save you time and frustration. They also have the most knowledge of your specific model of vehicle.
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 variables that determine the cost of your car key replacement so you can plan ahead.
The best method to figure out how much your car key will cost is to locate an auto locksmith near you. They will be able provide you with a quote based on the specific model of your car and make. They will also have the tools needed to complete the task. 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. It's not a guarantee however, that they'll provide the services you need.
Dealerships
In the past the loss or misplacement of your car keys wasn't an issue. It was simple to have your car towed by roadside assistance, pick up a replacement key and be back on the road in no time. As cars have evolved in terms of technology, so too have their keys. This makes 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. Find a local independent key replacement shop or locksmith that offers OEM or 3rd party keys at only a fraction of the cost. A lot of these shops have an online search tool that can help you locate the nearest store.
It is also advisable to find a service that can cut and program a standard key, since they're generally less expensive than a dealership. They may not have the kind of key in stock and will have to order it. If they do have the key, you should expect to be charged between $200 and $350.
Dealers may offer in-house services to replace car keys or fix other lockout issues, but these are still more expensive than a locksmith who is independent. This is especially relevant for popular car brands such as Ford Chevy Toyota and Chrysler. Key fobs and chip replacements are more costly and complex for these manufacturers.
If you do arrive at the dealership, make sure to look for warranties that cover lockouts. If they do, then calling the dealership and mentioning the warranty may aid in reducing your bill. You may be able to have a mobile locksmith sent to your location. They will unlock the car on the spot and create a replacement key. This is a great option for when you aren't able to wait for days for the dealership to make your key and then install it. You can save up to half by using an independent locksmith instead of the dealership's service center.
Independent Locksmiths
Aside from being incredibly stressful losing your car keys can be costly. The most affordable way to replace a lost key is to search for an independent locksmith as they are usually cheaper than going to a dealership and don't incur the same overhead costs.
If you already have a working key, the cost of the new key will differ. If you have it, it will cost much less as a copy can be made using the current key and does not need to be programmed. Typically, older mechanical keys that do not contain a transponder chip them can be copied for $10 or less.
Modern electronic key fobs on the other hand, are more expensive to duplicate as they must be programmed to work with your vehicle's system. Based on the make and model, this process can be as easy as entering the code or as intricate as utilizing a decryptor to modify the key to ensure proper operation.
It is also important to keep in mind that the location of the vehicle may influence the cost of a new car key. If you're stranded in the middle, it can be more costly to replace your car keys because there's no person nearby to help. This is because most people who are in this situation rely on roadside assistance. However, the cost of these services can be expensive and usually only cover a small portion of the costs involved.
When making a decision on the cost of a replacement key, it is crucial to keep in mind that many independent locksmiths offer discounts to customers who are first time clients or those who refer 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.
One final suggestion to always keep a spare car key. This will avoid the headache of replacing keys that have been lost, and it will be cheaper than trying to replace it at the last moment. If you're concerned about the cost of replacing your car key, contact your insurance company and inquire about the cost. Some insurance companies offer an additional fee to replace keys that are lost.
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 purchasing 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 need to go in order to get an additional key. The VIN number is located on the driver's side of your dashboard or in the owner's manual.
You may need to visit a dealer to get a new key in the event that yours has an electronic transponder. These chips communicate with the vehicle to begin it, so they must be programmed in order to work. This is accomplished using special machines, which are typically only available through dealerships and can cost up to $200 for an entirely new key and fob.
If your car has traditional keys that do not have transponder chips, a locksmith should be able to duplicate it at a lower cost. Depending on the kind of key, this can be as low as $10 or even $150 for a whole set of keys replacement.
Some keys are more difficult to duplicate and are more expensive. A switchblade key, which folds down into fobs, is typically more expensive than any other type of key, because it takes more work to create. automotive car key replacement is a smart key, that uses the proximity sensor to open the car door. It is difficult to reprogram, and the cost of a replacement key may be high.
You can locate an auto-locksmith local to you who is familiar with the brand that you drive if prefer to visit the dealership. They'll likely be able to offer a lower quote and be more reliable than a dealership. Some provide mobile services where they'll visit your home or office to cut and program keys for you.