Factors That Influence the Cost For Replacement Car Key
If you lose your car keys, it could be a stressful experience. The cost of a new key will vary based on the type of vehicle and the key type.
Find out what type of key your car comes with. Certain newer models have advanced keys that can only be replaced by a dealer.
The model and make of your vehicle
The days of walking into the hardware store and getting duplicate keys for cars made at pennies are over. Key fobs today are tiny electronic devices that contain everything from an RF transceiver and batteries to printed circuit boards and key specific transponder chip. This means that they are much safer than traditional keys, and more expensive to replace in the event of a loss or damage.
The model and make of your vehicle will eventually determine the cost for a replacement car key. In general older keys are less expensive. Older keys are simple metal models that work by turning the ignition cylinder. They don't need any special equipment. They can be replaced with a standard automotive locksmith for a reasonable price however, they can be purchased from a parts store or dealership.
Newer cars are built with the latest technology and safety features, including a smart key that unlocks and locks your doors from a distance as well as a proximity sensor that can start your engine. They can only be programmed by a professional with special equipment. This type of machine is usually only available at dealerships.
Laser-cut keys require special equipment to make a spare. These are thicker than standard keys and come with deep grooves and ridges to ensure greater security and durability. Laser-cut automotive keys may cost a bit more than the standard key. However in the event that the key is equipped with transponders, it may be more.
Based on the make and model of your vehicle, you can expect to pay anywhere between $100-$850 to replace your car keys. This does not include any taxes, fees or other additional costs that may be related to the purchase. Auto locksmiths are the best choice for obtaining the new key. They have competitive rates and are usually capable of supplying you with a key within an hour or less. You may also seek the assistance of roadside assistance services but they tend to be more expensive and not as reliable.
The kind of key
Most people aren't aware that the cost of car key duplication can vary based on the kind of key you own. A classic double-edged car key can be repaired at a local hardware store for less than $10. However modern key fobs require to be programmed by an expert to ensure they are compatible with your vehicle. This is why it's crucial to locate a reliable locksmith who offers mobile service, and that will have the right tools and software to create keys for you on the spot.
In older vehicles, you can usually get keys that are new from a dealer or at an auto parts store, however newer vehicles come with transponder keys that need to be programmed in order for them to function. They are more expensive to duplicate and require a particular machine that is usually only available at the dealer. This makes them the most costly kind of car key to replace.
Laser-cut keys are more difficult to duplicate and are often more expensive. These keys require a machine only found at dealerships to make the distinct cuts in the blank keys. They can add $50 or more to the cost of the new key.
Switchblade keys can also be expensive and difficult to duplicate. These are the keys you've seen your friends playing with. They fold up into keyfobs. These keys can be replaced for $150 or more by a locksmith, but are much harder to take.
Smart keys are the most expensive type of car keys, and they use radio frequencies to communicate with your vehicle's computer. They are the most sophisticated and secure keys, however they are also the most expensive. They can cost upwards of 600 dollars. It is recommended to speak with your dealer, locksmith or mechanic to find out the cost to duplicate or program different types of keys.
The location of your car
The days of purchasing an extra key for your car at an hardware store for less than $10 have long gone. Today, it can cost you up to $160 or more to replace a lost key- depending on the type of key you need. Here are the factors that affect the cost of replacing keys:
The make and model of your vehicle are the primary factors that determine the price for a replacement car key. The cost of duplicates or fixing a key for a newer vehicle can be more expensive than a previous model. This is because they are equipped with modern technology. Additionally, some vehicles require special equipment to cut the blades of the key which can increase the overall cost of the replacement.
Most cars come with remote key fobs, which is an electronic device that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle from the distance. It can be useful in rainy or hazardous areas, but it is prone to damage or theft. The key fob is connected to the ignition switch via a wire and can be programmed at your local dealership for cars or an automotive locksmith.
A key fob can also be paired to your phone, allowing you to start your car using your smartwatch. These kinds of key fobs are usually the most expensive to replace, since they require a particular software code that only the manufacturer can provide.
The area of your home could influence the cost of an alternative key. Prices may be higher in cities and rural areas as well as with various kinds of locks. This is because some locks are more difficult to cut or open, and require more expertise and training.
If you have a standard metal car key that has chip inside, a locksmith or your car dealer can usually duplicate it for a reasonable cost. However, if you own a more advanced key fob, the only way to replace it is to visit the dealer.
The majority of dealerships charge a fee, but their service is usually more reliable and could save you time and money. Furthermore, the cost of the car key fob could typically be covered under your insurance policy on your vehicle, but it is important to check the terms of your policy before making a claim.
The locksmith or tow truck
It's not a pleasant experience to replace a car key however, if you know what you're doing it can be made much simpler. You'll want to know what kind of key you have and 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.
Hardware stores can repair a traditional double-edged lock for about $10. If you lose your original key you can get a replacement made at home. If you have a more technologically advanced key, like one with a transponder keys or switchblade keys you'll need to go to an expert locksmith for your vehicle. They'll require the model and year of your vehicle as well as evidence of ownership (like the registration or title) and an extra key. If you have a fob that has a switchblade keys, it could require a special programming process that only dealers can do.
If you have an electronic key cut with lasers or one with an embedded transponder chip the key, it will need to be programmed to the vehicle. On average it will cost about $150 to $225. The process at the dealership is slightly more expensive but it will spare you the hassle of waiting for a third party to get the job done.
You could damage the lock when trying to remove a broken key or a jammed one. This could make the task more difficult. Get help from a professional if have an extra. They will be familiar with the type of lock you have and have backup plans in the event of any issues.
Before you lose your keys, note down the number for your vehicle identification (VIN). car replacement key cost is located in several places in the driver's side dashboard of your car, beneath the engine's hood, in the door jamb, or in the trunk of the car. The VIN can also be located on the papers that came along with your vehicle or in your insurance policy.