How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
Losing your car keys can be difficult and costly. automotive key replacement to replace them depends on where and what type of key you've made.
Locksmiths can typically duplicate traditional keys for less than $10. However, a lot of newer automobiles use transponder chip technology that must be programmed at 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
When you lose your car keys it can be a an extremely stressful and frustrating. However, if you have an additional key and know the kind of car key you lost, the process can be a little easier. If you have an older mechanical key for instance, a locksmith could probably make a duplicate fairly quickly and easily. However, more sophisticated types of keys require specific knowledge to be copied. They also have to be reprogrammed. You'll be required to visit a dealer to purchase a new one.
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 special features.
If you decide to replace your key with the help of an expert or DIY could affect your car key replacement costs as well. Professionals typically cost more than DIY methods however, they can save you time and frustration. They also have the most experience with your specific type of vehicle.
It's worth the expense to replace the car key. It's recommended to familiarize yourself with the factors that determine how much it will cost so that you can plan according to your budget.
Find a local auto locksmith to obtain an estimate of the cost of your car key. They will be able to provide you with a quote based on the particular car model and the make. They will have the equipment to complete the job. Roadside assistance is another option however it is expensive. It's also worth noting that your insurance provider may provide this service as part of your policy. It's not a guarantee however, that they'll provide the services you need.
Dealerships
It wasn't long ago that misplacing your car keys or losing keys was not a huge problem. You could just call roadside assistance to have your vehicle towed to the dealership, get an alternative key, and get back on the road in no time. As cars have evolved in terms of technology, so have the keys. This means they are more expensive to replace.
The best method to save money is to avoid going to the dealership, unless you require a new key fob, key remote, or transponder chip key. Instead, search for an independent locksmith or key replacement shop that offers OEM or third-party keys at much less cost. Many of these shops offer an online search tool that can aid you in finding a shop close to you.
You should also try to find a service that can cut and program a standard key, because they're typically cheaper than a dealer. The downside is that they may not have the type of key you require and may have to purchase it for you. If they do have the key you need, expect to spend between $220 to $350 for the replacement and programming.
Dealers may provide in-house services to replace keys for cars or solve other lockout issues, but these are still more expensive than a locksmith who is independent. This is particularly true for the more popular automobile brands, such as Ford, Chevy, Toyota, and Chrysler. The key chips and fobs are more complex and costly to replace than those of other manufacturers'.
If automotive car key replacement arrive at the dealership, be sure to inquire about any warranties that cover lockouts. If they do, calling the dealership and mentioning the warranty could lower your cost. It is possible to have a mobile locksmith delivered to your location who can unlock the vehicle right there and create a replacement key. This is a great solution for those who do not have time to wait around for your dealership to install and order your key. You can cut costs by up to half by hiring an independent locksmith rather than the dealership's service center.
Independent Locksmiths
Apart from being extremely stressful, losing your car keys can be expensive. Independent locksmiths are the most cost-effective method of replacing keys lost. They are cheaper than dealerships and do not have as much overhead costs.
If you already have a working key the cost of a new key can vary. If you already have a key that you have, the cost will be much lower as it can be copied from the key without needing to be programmed. Mechanical keys that are older and without a transponder can be copied for just $10.
Modern electronic keys, however, are more expensive to duplicate since they must be programmed to be compatible with your vehicle's system. Based on the model and make, this process can be as easy as entering the code or as intricate as utilizing a decryptor to modify the key to function properly.
It is also important to note that the location of the vehicle could impact the cost of a new key. If you are stranded in the middle of nowhere, getting your car keys replaced can be more expensive as there might not be any one near to assist with the procedure. Most people in this situation depend on assistance from the roadside however, it can be costly and only cover a portion of the cost.
One thing that is helpful to remember when calculating the cost of replacing your key is that many independent locksmiths will 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 expensive advertising.
A final suggestion is to always have an extra key on hand, since it will not only spare you from the hassle of dealing with the loss of a car key however, it will cost less than trying to replace keys that have been lost at the last minute. If you're worried about the cost of replacing your car key, call your insurance company and request more information. Some insurance companies offer a premium to cover keys that are lost.
Replacement Keys
There are a myriad of aspects that could affect the cost of a new key for your car, whether you have lost yours or require a replacement. The first thing you should do is write down the VIN number of your car (vehicle identification number) to assist you in determining where you'll need to go to get an additional key. This number can be found on the driver's side of your dashboard or in the vehicle owner's manual.
You may have to visit a dealer to get a new key when yours is equipped with an electronic transponder. These chips must be programmed by communicating with the vehicle in order to begin it. This is accomplished using special equipment, which is typically only available at dealerships and can cost up to $200 for a new fob and key.
If your car is equipped with traditional keys that do not have transponder chips, a locksmith should be able to duplicate the key at a cheaper cost. Depending on the type of key, this can be as little as $10 or up to $150 for a complete set of replacement keys.
Certain keys are more difficult to duplicate and therefore more expensive. If you have a switchblade type key that folds into the fob this can be more expensive than other types of keys because it is more labor-intensive to make. Another option that is expensive is a smart lock, which uses a proximity sensor to unlock the car door. It can be difficult to reprogram, and typically will cost the most money for the replacement key.
If you don't have the luxury of going to a dealership to purchase your new key, look for an auto locksmith in your neighborhood who is specialized in the type of car you drive. They will likely be able to provide a less expensive quote and be more reliable than a dealership would be. Some provide mobile services, where they'll visit your house or office to cut and program keys for you.