Factors That Influence the Cost For Replacement Car Key
Losing your car keys can be a nightmare. The cost of a new key will vary based on the type of vehicle and the type of key.
Find out which type of key your car comes with. Certain models with modern keys that can only be changed by the dealership.
What is the make and model of your vehicle?
The days of stepping into a hardware shop and having duplicate car keys made for pennies are now gone. Key fobs of today are tiny electronic devices that include everything from an RF transceiver and battery to printed-circuit boards and a key-specific transponder chips. As a result, they are much more secure than traditional keys, and more expensive to replace in the case of damage or loss.
The model and make of your vehicle will determine the cost you pay for a new key. In general older keys are more affordable. Older keys are simple metal models that work by turning the ignition cylinder. They don't require any special equipment. They can be replaced with an ordinary locksmith for cars at an affordable price however, they can also be purchased from a dealership or parts store.
Modern cars are equipped with advanced technology and safety features, including a smart key that opens and locks your doors from a distance, as well as a proximity sensor that can start your engine. These are only controlled by a professional using special equipment. This type of device is usually only available at dealerships.
Laser-cut keys require special equipment to create spare. They are more substantial than traditional keys and feature deep ridges and grooves for better security and durability. The price of a laser-cut key is usually a bit more than an automotive key, but can be significantly more if it includes a transponder chip.
Based on the make and model of your car It is possible to spend anywhere from $100-$850 for a new car key. This does not include taxes, fees or other extra costs that could be related to the purchase. In general, the best option for getting a replacement key is to contact an auto locksmith as they offer competitive prices and typically provide you with a working copy within a short period of time. You may also seek the assistance of roadside assistance providers but they tend to be more expensive and might not be as reliable.
The type of key
Many people don't realize that the cost of car key duplication depend on the type of key you have. While a classic double-edged metal car key can be replaced at a local hardware store for less than $10, modern key fobs require expert programming to ensure they function with the specific vehicle you have. This is the reason it's essential to find a reliable locksmith who offers mobile service and has the appropriate tools and software to make a new key for you right on the spot.
Transponder keys are required in the most recent vehicles. They can be bought from the dealer or auto parts stores. They're more expensive to duplicate and program, since they require a special machine that's usually only available through the dealer. This makes them the most expensive kind of car key to replace.
Laser-cut keys can also be more difficult to duplicate and are often more expensive. They require a specific machine that is only available at dealerships in order to make the distinct cuts in the blank keys. They can add $50 or more to the cost of a new key.
Switchblade keys can be very expensive and are hard to duplicate. These are the keys you've likely seen your friends playing with and they fold up into their key fobs. They can be replaced for $150 or more by a locksmith, however, they are much more difficult to take.
Smart keys are the most expensive keys for cars. They utilize radio frequency to connect with your vehicle computer. They are the most secure and high-tech keys, but they're also the most expensive to replace. It's not common for them to cost upwards of $600. You should speak to your dealer, locksmith or mechanic to find out what it will cost to duplicate or program various types of keys.
Your vehicle's location
The days when you could walk into the hardware store and buy a duplicate car key for less than $10 are gone. It could cost as much as $160 to replace a car key, dependent on the type of key you need. Here are the main factors that impact the cost of replacement keys:
The make and model of your vehicle are the biggest influence on the cost of replacing a car key. The cost of duplicating or repair a key on an older model vehicle could be more expensive than a previous model. This is because they are equipped with modern technology. Certain cars require special equipment to cut the blades of keys which can increase the cost.
Most cars come equipped with a remote-controlled key fob. This electronic device allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle from a distance. It is useful in rainy or dangerous areas, but it is susceptible to theft or damage. The key fob can be reprogrammed by an automotive locksmith or your local dealer for cars.
A key fob can also be linked to your phone so that you can start your car using your smartwatch or another device. Key fobs are the most expensive, as they require software codes which are only available from the manufacturer.
The location you live in will affect the cost of a new car key. cars keys replacement can be higher in cities or in rural areas, and for various kinds of locks. Certain locks are more difficult to open or cut and require more expertise and training.
A locksmith or car dealer can usually duplicate a standard car key that has a chip for a reasonable cost. If you have an electronic key fob that is more sophisticated, you'll need to take it to the dealer to have it replaced.
The majority of dealerships charge a fee however their services are usually more reliable and could save you time and money. The cost of a key fob to a car can be covered under an auto insurance policy. However, it's important to read the terms before filing a claim.
The locksmith or tow truck
It's not the most pleasant experience to replace the car key If you know what you're doing it's possible to make the process easier. You'll be required to know the kind of key, locksmith, or tow truck, who will perform the service and the cost. Also, you should determine if you're covered under your warranty or insurance for your car.
A traditional double-edged lock can be repaired for about $10 at a hardware store. You can even have an exact copy made at home in the event that you lose the original key. If you own an advanced key, like transponder or key fob you'll need to speak with a professional automotive locksmith. The locksmith will require the model and year of the vehicle, proof ownership (such as a registration or title), and an extra. If you have an ignition key fob with a switchblade, it might require special programming. Only dealers are capable of doing this.
You'll need to program a laser-cut key or a key with an integrated transponder chip, If you have one. It will cost between $150 to $225. Getting it done at the dealership is a little more expensive however it will save you the headache of waiting for a third party to get the job done.
You could damage the lock by trying to remove a broken key or a jammed one. This can make the task more difficult. Call a professional if you have a spare. They will be familiar with the type of lock you have and will have a backup plan in case of any issues.
If you lose your keys, note down the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). The VIN can be found in several places. It is typically located on the dashboard of the driver's side car, under the hood, in the door jamb or inside the trunk. The VIN can also be found on the papers that came with your vehicle, or on your insurance policy.