Factors That Influence the Cost For Replacement Car Key
Losing your car keys can be stressful. The cost of a replacement key can differ based on the type of car and the type of key.
The first thing you should do is determine the type of key your car has. Certain cars are equipped with advanced keys that can only be replaced at a dealership.
The make and model of your vehicle
The days of being able to walk into a hardware store and have duplicate car keys that cost pennies are gone. Key fobs today are tiny electronic devices that comprise everything from an RF transceiver and battery to printed-circuit boards and key specific transponder chip. They are more secure and expensive than traditional keys.
The model and make of your car will ultimately determine how much you'll pay for a replacement key for your car. In general, the older key, the more affordable it is. Older keys are basic metal models that start the car by turning an ignition cylinder. They do not require any special equipment to operate. They can be replaced with an ordinary locksmith for cars for a reasonable price and can 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 that can start the engine. They can only be programmed by a professional with special equipment. This type of device is typically only available at dealerships.
Laser-cut keys are a different kind of high-tech key that needs specialized machinery to create a spare. They are more substantial than standard keys and come with deep ridges and grooves for greater durability and security. The cost of a laser-cut key is often a little more than an key for cars, but it could be significantly more expensive if it includes a transponder chip.
You could pay between $100-850 dollars for the new car key, depending on the type and make of your vehicle. This does not include taxes, fees or other expenses related to the purchase. Generally, the best option for getting a replacement key is to call an auto locksmith as they have competitive rates and typically offer a functioning copy within a short period of time. You can also call roadside assistance companies. However, they may be more expensive and less reliable.
The kind of key
Most people aren't aware that the cost of duplicate car keys depend on the type of key you've got. While a classic double-edged metal car key can be replaced at your local hardware store for less than $10, modern key fobs require expert programming to ensure that they are compatible with the specific vehicle you have. It is important to choose an locksmith that provides mobile service and has the tools and software needed to create a brand new car key right on the on the spot.
In older vehicles you can typically purchase keys that are new at the dealership or at an auto parts store, however more recent models have transponder keys that have to be programmed to work. These are much more expensive to duplicate and program, because they require a specific machine that's typically only available through the dealer. This makes them the most expensive type of key to replace.
Laser-cut keys are more difficult to duplicate and are often more expensive. They require a specific machine only found at dealerships in order to make the distinct cuts in the blank key. These can add up to $50 or more to a new key.
Switchblade keys are another type of hard-to-replicate car key, and they can be expensive as well. These are the keys that you've seen your friends playing with. They fold up into keyfobs. They can be replaced by a locksmith at $150 or more, but they're harder to steal than regular keys.
Smart keys are the most expensive kind of car keys and use radio frequencies to communicate with the computer in your car. They're the most secure and high-tech keys, but they're also the most expensive to replace. It's not unusual for them to cost upwards of 600 dollars. It is recommended to speak with your locksmith, dealer or mechanic to determine what it will cost to duplicate or program various kinds of keys.
Your vehicle's location
The days of being able to walk into the hardware store and buy a duplicate car key made for less than $10 are gone. It can cost as much as $160 to replace a car key, depending on the type you require. Here are the main factors that influence the cost of replacement keys:
The model and make of your vehicle are the biggest influence on the cost of replacing a car key. The cost of duplicates or fixing a key for a newer vehicle can be higher than for an older model. This is because they have the latest technology. Additionally, some vehicles require special tools to cut the key blades and this could add to the overall cost of replacement.
Most cars come equipped with a remote control key fob. This device can allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle from a distance. This can be helpful in bad weather or unsafe zones, but it's not impervious to damage or loss. The key fob can be reset by an automotive locksmith or your local dealer in cars.
A key fob can be paired with your phone, allowing you to start your car by using your smartwatch. Key fobs are the most expensive, as they require software codes that can only be obtained from the manufacturer.
The location where you live can also impact the price of a new car key. Prices can be higher in large cities or rural areas, and for various kinds of locks. This is due to the fact that some locks are more difficult to cut or open, and require more skill and knowledge.
If you have a standard metal car key with chip inside the locksmith or dealer will usually duplicate it at a very low cost. If you have a key fob that is more sophisticated, you'll be required to take it to a dealer to have it replaced.
The majority of dealerships charge a premium for their services, however they're usually more reliable than other options and can save you lots of time and money. The cost of a key fob to an automobile is covered under the auto insurance policy. However, it is crucial to understand the terms before making a claim.
The tow truck or locksmith
It's not a pleasant experience to replace the car key however, if you know what you are doing it can be made simpler. You'll want to know what type of key you have as well as the locksmith or tow truck that will provide the service, and also how much it will cost. Check to see if you are covered by your vehicle insurance or warranty.
A traditional double-edged key can be repaired for about $10 at the hardware store. You can even have an original key made at home if you lost the original key. If you own an advanced key such as a key fob or transponder you'll need to talk to a professional locksmith. They'll require the model and year of your vehicle, proof of ownership (like the registration or title) and an extra key. If you have a fob that has a switchblade keys, it might require a special programming process that only a dealer is able to do.
You'll need to program a laser-cut key or a key that has an embedded transponder chip in the event that you own one. This will cost between $150 to $225. key replacement car is more expensive to have it done at a dealership, but you will not have to wait on a third-party to do the work.
The attempt to extract a broken or jammed key on your own may cause more damage to the lock, making the task more difficult. Get help from a professional if have a spare. They will be familiar with your lock type and will have a backup plan in case of any problems.
Before you lose your keys, note down the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). The VIN can be found in many places. It is usually located on the dashboard of the driver's side car, underneath the hood, in the door jamb or inside the trunk. The VIN can also be found on the paperwork that came along with your vehicle, or on your insurance policy.