How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
It is frustrating and costly to lose your car keys. The cost of replacing keys varies based on where you are and what type of key you've made.
Locksmiths are usually able to copy traditional keys for less than $10. However, a lot of newer vehicles are equipped with transponder chips that must be programmed at the dealership. Laser cut keys and switchblade keys are more expensive and require an appointment with the dealer.
Model and Make of Your Vehicle
Losing your car keys could be frustrating and stressful. If you do have an extra key and know what kind of car key you lost, the process could be a little easier. Locksmiths can create a copy of a mechanical key from the past quite quickly and easily, for example. To duplicate more sophisticated keys, you'll require special skills. They also have to be programmed, meaning you'll probably have visit your dealer to purchase a new key.
The type of key that was lost will also determine how much it costs to replace. For example, traditional mechanical keys that are inserted into the ignition cylinder are less expensive to replace than a key fob with a transponder that needs to be programmed. It will also cost more to replace if it is equipped with an ignition switchblade or other features that are specialized.
If you decide to replace your key with the assistance of a professional or do it yourself may have an impact on the cost of replacing your car keys as well. Professionals are more expensive than DIY methods but can save you time and frustration. They will also have the best knowledge with your specific type of vehicle.
It's worth the cost to replace the car key. It's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the factors that determine the price so that you can plan in advance.
Find a local auto-locksmith to receive an estimate of the cost of your car key. They can provide an estimate based on the make and model of your vehicle. They'll also have the tools needed to do a quality job. Another option is to contact roadside assistance, but this can be more costly. You should also note that your insurance company may include this service in your policy. However, it's not always a guarantee that they'll provide the services you require.
Dealerships
Not too long ago, misplacing or losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could call roadside assistance, have your car taken to the dealership, get a new key, and be back on the road in no time. But as cars have advanced in technology as well, so do their keys, which makes them more costly to replace.
Avoiding the dealership is the most efficient way to cut costs, unless you require an entirely new key remote, key fob or transponder key. Look for an independent car locksmith or shop for replacement keys that can provide OEM or 3rd party keys at a fraction of the price. A lot of these shops provide an online search tool that can assist you in finding a store close to you.
It's also worth searching 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 need in stock and might need to order it for you. If they do have the key you require, expect to be paying between $220 and $350 for replacement and programming.
Dealers might offer in-house services to replace keys for cars or resolve other lockout problems however, they are more expensive than a locksmith who is independent. This is especially true for the more popular automobile brands such as Ford, Chevy, Toyota and Chrysler. Key fobs and chip replacements are more expensive and complex for these brands.
If you find yourself at a dealership, be sure to inquire whether there are any warranties that cover lockouts. If they do, calling the dealership and mentioning the warranty could aid in reducing your bill. You may be able to get a mobile locksmith delivered to your location who can unlock your vehicle right there and create a replacement key. This is a great solution if you can't afford to wait for a long time for the dealership to order your key and install it. Moreover, you might be in a position to save as much as 50% by going to an independent locksmith instead of the dealership's service center.
Independent Locksmiths
Losing your car keys is not only stressful, but can also be expensive. Independent locksmiths are the cheapest option to replace keys that have been lost. They are cheaper than dealerships and don't have as much overhead costs.
The cost of a replacement key could depend on whether or not you have an existing key that you can copy from. If you have one, it will cost much less as a copy can be made using the current key and not need to be programmed. Typically, auto key replacement that don't contain a transponder chip them can be copied for $10 or less.
Modern electronic key fobs, however, are more expensive to duplicate because they need to be programmed to integrate with the system of your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the model and make of your vehicle. It can be as easy or as complex as entering a number or using an encryption device.
In the end, it is important to remember that the location of your vehicle could also impact the cost of obtaining the new key. If you're stranded out in the middle of nowhere, it can be more costly to replace your car's key since there isn't one nearby to assist. Most people in this situation depend on assistance from the roadside however it can be expensive and only cover a portion of the cost.
One thing that can be helpful when you calculate the cost of replacing your key is that many locksmiths who are independent offer discounts on their services for first-time customers or those who recommend them to others. This is because they wish to expand their business and rely on word-of-mouth marketing as opposed to costly advertisements.
A final suggestion: always have a spare car key. This will save you the headache of replacing keys that have been lost, and it will be less expensive than attempting to do it at the last moment. If you're worried about the cost of replacing your car key, contact your insurance company and inquire about the cost. Certain insurance companies provide the option of a fee to replace keys that are lost.
Replacement Keys
There are a variety of factors that could impact the cost of an additional key for your vehicle, whether you've lost yours or you need to replace it. The first thing to note down the VIN number of your car (vehicle identification number) which will assist you in determining where you'll need to go to get a new key. This number can be found on the dashboard of the driver or in the owner's manual.
You may have to visit a dealer in order to get a new key if yours contains an electronic transponder. These chips communicate with the vehicle to begin it, which is why they have to be programmed in order to work. This is done using special machines, which are typically only available through dealerships and cost as much as $200 for an entirely new key and fob.
If your car has a traditional key with no transponder chips You should be able to locate a locksmith who will duplicate it at a lesser cost. It could cost as little as $10 for keys or up to $150 based on the type.
Other kinds of keys are a little more difficult to replicate and could be more expensive. A switchblade key, which folds into a fob, is usually more expensive than any other kind of key because it takes more work to create. Smart keys, which use the proximity sensor to open the car door, are a different costly alternative. It is difficult to reprogram, and the price of a replacement key may be expensive.
If you do not have the luxury of going to a dealer for your new key, you can try to find an auto locksmith in your neighborhood who specializes in the brand of vehicle you use. They are more likely to able give you a lower estimate and are more reliable than dealerships. Some even provide mobile services that will come to your home or workplace to cut and program your keys for you.