How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
It's a pain and a cost to lose your car keys. The cost of replacing them depends on the type of key and where you get it made.
Traditional keys can usually be copied by a locksmith for less than $10 but many newer cars use transponder chips which must be programmed by the dealer. Keys cut with lasers and switchblade keys are even more expensive and require an appointment with the dealer.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
The loss of your car keys can be stressful and frustrating. However, if you have an extra key and know what kind of car key you lost, the process may be a little easier. If you have an older mechanical key for instance, a locksmith will likely duplicate it quickly and easily. However, more advanced types of keys require specialized knowledge to be copied. They also have to be reprogrammed, so you'll have to visit your dealer to obtain a replacement.
The type of key lost will also determine the cost of replacing it. For example, traditional mechanical keys that insert into the ignition cylinder are less expensive to replace than a key fob which has a special transponder that needs to be programmed. It will cost more to replace the key fob if it's equipped with a switchblade or specific features.
The cost of replacing your car keys could depend on the method you choose to replace it yourself or with the help a professional. Professionals will usually charge more than DIY methods however they can save you a lot of time and frustration. They will also have the most experience with your specific type of vehicle.
It's worth the cost to replace a car key. You must be aware of all the elements that determine the cost of your car key replacement to be able to plan ahead.
Find an auto-locksmith in your area to receive an estimate of the cost of your car key. They can give you an estimate based upon the model and make of your vehicle. They will also have the tools to do a quality job. Roadside assistance is another option however it is costly. It's important to note that your insurance provider may provide this service as part of your policy. It's not a guarantee however, that they will offer the services you require.
Dealerships
A few years ago having lost or misplaced your car keys wasn't an issue. It was easy to get your vehicle tow by roadside assistance, pick up the replacement key and get back on the road in a short time. As cars have advanced in technology, so have the keys. This means they are more expensive to replace.
The most efficient way to save money is to avoid going to the dealership, except if you require a replacement key fob, key remote, or transponder chip key. Instead, find an independent locksmith or key replacement shop that offers OEM or third-party keys at a fraction of the cost. Many of these stores have an online search tool that can assist you in finding the nearest store.
It is also worth looking for a shop that can cut and program standard keys, since these are usually cheaper than dealerships. They may not have your type of key in stock and you'll need to purchase it. If they do have the key you need, expect to be paying between $220 to $350 for the 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 that is independent. This is especially true for the more popular automobile brands such as Ford, Chevy, Toyota and Chrysler. The key fobs and chip replacements are more expensive and complicated for these brands.
If you find yourself at a dealer, make sure to ask whether there are any warranties that cover lockouts. If they do, then calling the dealership and mentioning the warranty could help reduce your bill. They might even be in a position to send an emergency locksmith to your location to unlock the vehicle and create a new key on the spot. This is an excellent option if you don't have the patience to wait for your dealership to make and install your key. Moreover, you might be able to save up to 50% by visiting an independent locksmith instead of the dealership's service center.
Independent Locksmiths
In addition to being extremely stressful, losing your car keys can be expensive. Independent locksmiths are the cheapest option to replace keys that have been lost. how to get a car key replaced are less expensive than dealerships and don't have as many overhead costs.
If you already have a working key the cost of the new key will differ. If you have one this, it will cost less since a copy can be made using the key that is currently in use and doesn't have to be programmed. Keys that were mechanical before the transponder can be copied for just $10.
Modern electronic keys, on the other hand are more expensive to duplicate as they need to be programmed to integrate with the system of your vehicle. Depending on your car's model and make, this process can be as simple as typing the code or as complex as utilizing a decryptor to reprogram the key to ensure proper operation.
It is also important to remember that the location of the vehicle can influence the cost of a new key. If you are stranded in the middle of nowhere, having the car key replaced could be more costly since there may not be anyone nearby to assist you with the process. 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 could be helpful when you calculate the cost of replacing your key is that many independent locksmiths offer discounts on their services to first-time customers or those who recommend them to others. This is due to the fact that they are looking to expand their business and rely on word-of-mouth marketing, as opposed to expensive advertising.
A final suggestion to always keep an extra car key. This will save you the burden of replacing a key that has been lost, and will be less expensive than attempting to do it in the last minute. If you're worried about the cost to replace your car key, call your insurance company and request more information. While they often do not cover lost car keys but some of them provide it as a premium extra.
Replacement Keys
There are many factors that could impact the cost of an additional key for your car, whether you've lost your key or need to replace one. First, you should note the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car. This will help you to determine where to go to get an alternative key. This number can be found on the side of the dashboard that is on the driver or in the owner's manual.
You may have to visit a dealer in order to get a new key when yours is equipped with an electronic transponder. The chips need to be programmed, as they communicate with the vehicle in order to allow it to start. This is accomplished using special machines that are usually only available at dealerships and can cost up to $200 for a replacement fob and key.
If your car has traditional keys that do not have transponder chips, you should be able to find a locksmith who can duplicate it for a much cheaper price. Depending on the type of key, this could be as little as $10 or even $150 for an entire set of replacement keys.
Different types of keys are more difficult to duplicate and may be more expensive. A switchblade key, which folds into fobs, is typically more expensive than other type of key, because it takes more work to create. Smart keys, which use the proximity sensor to unlock the car's door, are another expensive alternative. It can be difficult to reprogram and will cost the most for a replacement key.
There is an auto-locksmith in your area who is familiar with the model that you drive if need to visit an auto dealer. They will likely be able to provide a less expensive estimate and will be more reliable than a dealership. Some even offer mobile services that will come to your home or workplace to cut and program the keys for you.