Factors That Influence the Cost For Replacement Car Key
If you lose your car keys, it can be a stressful experience. The cost of purchasing a new key will vary based on the vehicle type and the key type.
The first thing you should do is to determine what kind of key your vehicle has. Certain vehicles come with advanced keys that are only replaceable at the dealership.
The model and make of your vehicle
The days of stepping into an hardware store and buying duplicate car keys made at pennies are gone. Key fobs today are tiny electronic devices that include everything from an RF transceiver and battery, to printed circuit boards and a key-specific transponder chip. They are more secure and more expensive than traditional keys.
The make and model of your car will determine the price you pay for a brand new key. In general, the more old the key, the cheaper it is. Keys older than that are basic metal models that work by turning the ignition cylinder. They don't require special equipment. These keys can be replaced at a reasonable cost by an automotive locksmith or purchased from a dealership or car parts store.
Modern cars are equipped with advanced technology and safety features that include a smart key that unlocks and locks your doors from a distance, as well as proximity sensors that start your engine. These are only programmed by a professional with special equipment. This type of machine is generally only available through dealerships.
Laser-cut keys require specialized machinery to make a spare. They are more robust and have more grooves and ridges that increase durability and security. Laser-cut automotive keys can cost a little bit more than a standard key. However when the key comes with transponders, it may be much more.
It is possible to pay between $100-850 dollars for the new car key, dependent on the model and make of your vehicle. This does not include taxes, fees, or any other costs related to the purchase. Generally, the best alternative for obtaining the replacement key is to call an auto locksmith since they are competitively priced and can usually offer a functioning key in a short amount of time. You can also seek the help of roadside assistance companies but they tend to be more expensive and might not be as reliable.
The type of key
Most people aren't aware that car key duplication costs can vary based on the type of key you have. While a classic double-edged metal car key can be replaced at your local hardware store for less than $10 Key fobs of today require professional programming to ensure they function with the specific vehicle you have. This is the reason it's essential to find a reputable locksmith that offers mobile service, and that has the appropriate tools and software to make keys for you on the spot.
Transponder keys are required to operate in newer cars. They can be bought at the dealership or auto parts stores. They're more expensive to duplicate and program since they require a special machine that's usually only available at the dealer. This makes them the most expensive type of car key replacement.
Laser-cut keys are also difficult to replicate and are usually more expensive than conventional key types also. They require a specific machine only found at dealerships in order to make the distinct cuts in the blank key. They can add $50 or more to a new key.
Switchblade keys are another type of hard-to-replicate car key and can be very expensive too. These are the keys you've probably seen your friends fooling around with and fold into their key fobs. These keys can be replaced for $150 or even more by a locksmith, but are much harder to get.
Smart keys are the most expensive type of car keys, and they use radio frequencies to communicate with the computer in your car. They're the most secure and advanced keys, but they're also the most expensive to replace. It's not common for them to cost up to 600 dollars. It is recommended to speak with your locksmith, dealer, or mechanic about the various kinds of keys for cars and the price to duplicate or program them.
The location of your vehicle
The days where you could visit the hardware store and buy a duplicate car key for less than $10 are long gone. Nowadays, it could cost upwards of $160 or more to replace a lost key -depending on the kind of key you require. Here are the main factors that influence the cost of replacing keys:
The make and model of your vehicle are the biggest influence on the cost of a replacement car key. Modern vehicles are more likely to have modern technology, therefore they can be more expensive to duplicate or repair than older models. Certain vehicles require special tools to cut the blades of the keys which can increase the cost.
The majority of cars have remote key fobs, which is a device that allows you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. It is useful in stormy weather and unsafe areas, but is prone to theft or damage. The key fob is connected to the ignition switch using a wire and can be programmed at your local car dealership or an automotive locksmith.
Key fobs can also be paired to your phone which allows you to start your vehicle with your smartwatch. These types of key fobs are usually the most costly to replace, as they require a particular software code that only the manufacturer can provide.
The location you live in can also impact the price of a new car key. Prices could be higher in big cities or in rural areas, and for various types of locks. This is due to the fact that some locks are more difficult to open or cut, requiring more skill and knowledge.
A car dealer or locksmith can often duplicate a common car key that has chip at a reasonable cost. However, if you own a more advanced key fob, the only option to get it replaced is to go to the dealer.
The majority of dealers will charge a premium for their services, but they're usually more reliable than other options and can save you a lot of time and money. The cost of a key fob for a car is covered under the insurance policy for autos. However, it is important to read the terms before making an insurance claim.
The locksmith or tow truck
Key replacement for your car isn't always a pleasant experience, but it can be much less painful if you have the right information. You'll have to know the type of key, locksmith, or tow truck, who will perform the service and the cost. You should also check to find out if you're covered by your warranty or insurance for your car.
A traditional double-edged key can usually be repaired for about $10 at the hardware store. If you have lost your original key, you can have a replica made at home. If you own an advanced key, like a key fob or transponder it is necessary to talk to a professional locksmith. The locksmith will need the model and year of the vehicle, proof of ownership (such as the title or registration) and a spare. If you have a fob that has a switchblade key, it may require a special programming process that only dealers can do.
If you own an electronic key cut with lasers, or one with a transponder chip integrated the key, it will need to be programmed to the vehicle. This will cost between $150 and $225. It's more expensive to have it done at a dealership, however you'll be able to avoid the hassle of waiting for a third party to complete the work.
The attempt to extract a broken or locked key on your own can cause more damage to the lock, making the task more difficult. If you have a spare key it is recommended to contact an expert since they're familiar with the kind of lock and will have plans for any issues that may occur.
Before automotive key replacement lose your keys, make sure you write down the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). The VIN can be found in a variety of places such as on the dashboard of the driver's side of your vehicle, under the engine's hood and in the door jamb or in the trunk of the vehicle. The VIN can also be found on the papers that came along with your vehicle, or on your insurance policy.