Factors That Influence the Cost For Replacement Car Key
Losing keys to your car can be a nightmare. The cost of purchasing a new key can vary depending on the car type and the key type.
Find out which type of car key you have. Some vehicles are equipped with advanced keys which are only replaceable at a dealership.
The model and make of your vehicle
The days of going to a hardware shop and having duplicate car keys made at pennies are gone. Key fobs today are miniscule electronic devices that contain everything from an RF transmitter and battery, to printed circuit boards and transponder chips specifically designed for key fobs. They are more secure and more expensive than traditional keys.
The make and model of your car will determine the cost you pay for a brand new key. In general, older keys are cheaper. Older keys are the basic metal keys that start your car when they are inserted into an ignition cylinder. They do not require any special technology to function. They can be repaired by a standard automotive locksmith for a reasonable price, but can also be purchased from a dealership or parts store.
The latest cars come with advanced safety and technology features, like a smart key which locks and unlocks doors from a distance and a proximity sensor to start the engine. These can only be programmed by a professional with special equipment. This type of device is generally only available through dealerships.
Laser-cut keys require specialized machinery to make a spare. They are more durable and have deeper ridges and groves to improve security and durability. A laser-cut automotive key could cost a little more than the standard key. However when the key comes with transponders, it may be more.
You could pay between $100 and 850 dollars for an entirely new car key dependent on the model and model of your car. This does not include fees, taxes or additional costs that may be associated with the purchase. Generally, the best option for getting a replacement key is to call an auto locksmith since they offer competitive prices and usually give you a working copy in a short amount of time. You could also seek out the assistance of roadside assistance services, though they are often more expensive and might not be as reliable.
The kind of key
Many people are unaware of the cost of replicating a car key can vary depending on the kind you are using. A traditional double-edged car key can be repaired at your local hardware store for less than $10. However modern key fobs have to be programmed by an expert to ensure they work with your vehicle. It's important to choose a locksmith that offers mobile service and has the tools and software required to create a new car key right on the instantaneously.
In older vehicles you can typically get a new replacement key from a dealer or at an auto parts store. However, more recent vehicles have transponder keys that must be programmed to work. These are more expensive to duplicate, and they require a special machine that is usually only available from the dealer. This makes them the most costly kind of car key to replace.
Laser-cut keys are also difficult to replicate and are usually more expensive than conventional key types too. These keys require a special machine that is only available at dealerships in order to make the distinct cuts in the blank keys. These can add $50 or more to the cost of a new key.
Switchblade keys can be expensive and difficult to duplicate. These are the keys you've seen your friends playing with. They fold into keyfobs. They can be exchanged for $150 or more by a locksmith but are much harder to take.
Smart keys are the most expensive kind of car key and use radio frequencies to communicate with the computer in your car. They are the most sophisticated and secure keys, but they are also the most expensive. It's not unusual for them to cost up to 600 dollars. It is recommended to speak with your locksmith, dealer or mechanic to determine what it will cost to duplicate or program the various kinds of keys.
The location of your vehicle
The days of being able to walk into an hardware store and purchase a duplicate car key made for less than $10 are gone. It can cost as much as $160 to replace a car key, dependent on the type of key you need. Here are some of the factors that affect the cost of replacing keys:
The model and make of your vehicle are the most significant factors in the price for a replacement car key. The cost of duplicates or repair a key on the latest model of vehicle may be more expensive than a previous model. This is because they are equipped with more advanced technology. Some cars also require special machinery to cut the key blades and this could increase the overall cost of the replacement.
Most cars come with a remote key fob, which is an electronic device that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle from an extended distance. This can be helpful in dangerous or bad weather areas, but it is not impervious to damage or loss. The key fob is connected to the ignition switch by wires and can be programmed at your local car dealership or a locksmith for automotive use.
A key fob can also be paired to your smartphone, allowing you to start your car with your smartwatch. These key fobs can be the most expensive, as they require software codes that are only available from the manufacturer.
key replacement for car where you live can also impact the price of a replacement car key. Prices may be higher in large cities or rural areas and also for various kinds of locks. This is due to the fact that certain locks are more difficult to cut or open, requiring more expertise and training.
If you own a standard metal car key with chip an locksmith or dealer will usually duplicate it for a low cost. However, if you have an upgraded key fob, the only option to get it replaced is to go to the dealership.
The majority of dealers will charge a fee for their service, but they are usually more reliable than other options and can save you lots of time and money. The cost of a key fob to an automobile can be covered under an auto insurance policy. However, it is crucial to understand the terms before making an insurance claim.
The locksmith or tow truck
Key replacement for cars isn't an enjoyable experience, but it's less painful with the proper details. You'll be required to know the kind of key, the locksmith or tow truck that will perform the service and the cost. Make sure you are covered by your car insurance or warranty.
A traditional double-edged lock can be replaced for about $10 at the hardware store. You can even get a copy made at home in the event that you lose the original key. If you have a technologically advanced key, like one with a switchblade key or transponder key you'll need to go to a professional locksmith for your automobile. The locksmith will need the model and year of the vehicle, proof ownership (such as the title or registration) and a spare. If you have a fob with switchblade keys, it could require special programming that only a dealer can do.
If you own laser cut keys or one that has a transponder chip integrated it, it must be programmed to the vehicle. This will cost between $150 to $225. Getting it done at the dealership is a little more expensive but it will spare you the frustration of waiting for an outside company to get the job done.
The attempt to extract a broken or jammed key on your own can cause further damage to the lock and make the task more difficult. Contact a professional if you have an extra. They are familiar with your lock type and have backup plans in the event of any issues.
Before you lose your keys, make sure you write down the vehicle identification number (VIN). The VIN is found in many places in the driver's side dashboard of your car, under the hood of your engine or in the door jamb, or in the trunk of the vehicle. You can also find the VIN on the papers that came with your vehicle or in your insurance policy.