The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
It can be frustrating to lose your car keys. It's important to realize that a replacement key might not be as expensive as you think.
The cost of buying a new car key is determined by a variety of factors, including the type of replacement key you require and your location. Traditional keys are the least costly and the smart keys are more expensive.
Cost of Parts
The cost will differ based on the type of key that you require. Standard keys that have no transponder chips can be copied for anywhere between $50 to $110. The cost increases for those who require an ignition key equipped with a transponder chip or a push-to-start vehicle that requires an extra fob to start the car. Keys with transponder chips are expensive to duplicate and replace, and are more difficult to steal.
The cost will also be affected by the year, make and model of vehicle you own. The latest models may have transponder chips that must be paired with the car by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that the replacement key needs to be programmed to work with the vehicle, which could cost up to $200. Other factors that influence the cost of replacement keys are:
Auto locksmiths might be the most expensive however, they don't have the equipment needed to handle complex key fobs or vehicles. You can try to copy a basic key by yourself in a hardware shop, however, the process takes a long time and may be a challenge in the absence of the right tools. You can also call roadside assistance for a new key. However, they will tow your vehicle to a dealer, and the process could take a few days.
If you own a newer key fob, the best method to save money is to purchase all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. However, this is becoming more and more difficult since key fobs are often equipped with security features that prevent theft. Many companies have software programs that can be used to make keys, but these are usually only available to customers with service contracts or as a courtesy through the dealership. Most locksmiths won't open vehicles that have been forced to open or tampered. Insurance providers will be alerted in the event that you use wire hangers to open your vehicle.
Cost of Labor
The cost of replacing a car key will be contingent on the kind you require. A standard double-edged car key can be duplicated at your local hardware store for less than $10. To program and make more sophisticated keys, you'll require special equipment. This can significantly increase the cost of replacing a car key.
If your car has an ignition key to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll need to have a new fob installed in addition. This can run up to $200, based on the model and make of your vehicle. A lot of newer cars have transponders inside the key which must be programmed and re-installed in order to work correctly. This is an additional cost that is difficult to estimate until the key is lost and needs to be replaced.
car key and fob replacement www.g28carkeys.co.uk specialized cutting machine is also required to make the new key replacement. These can be expensive to purchase and not easily accessible for people without an auto mechanic's shop. In addition, the housing of the key needs to be replaced too and this can increase the total cost of an replacement car key.
Depending on the car key type, you may also need to purchase replacement parts. Certain key fobs, for instance, include features like panic or remote lock/unlock buttons which can add to the total cost. Some key fobs also require a battery that can be costly to replace.
It is advisable to make a spare car key prior to the time you lose your original key. This will lessen the stress that comes with losing your keys and ensure that you always have a functioning backup. If you do need an additional key, you should try to find a locksmith or car dealer equipped to work with your vehicle. This is less expensive than buying a new key from the dealer and will save you the cost-intensive fees associated with this option.
It's important to keep the immobilizer code as well as your key number if you need to reprogramme your key. This information can be found on your registration, title or other documents. A locksmith or auto dealer may charge a fee to provide this information.
Cost of Equipment
Modern automobiles have key fobs which can lock, unlock, and start the vehicle by simply pressing a button. These devices are extremely convenient, however they can also be expensive to replace if they are damaged or lost. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace keys without having to replace the device. There are a few aspects to take into consideration when it comes to the cost of replacing a car key.
The Year, Make and Model of the Vehicle
There are many different types of keys for cars, from basic, laser cut keys to switchblade keys. These keys are difficult to duplicate because they are distinct. This is especially true for modern car keys that have transponders that require programming to the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, but will cost more than a standard key copy.
The type of vehicle can also affect the cost. Basic keys and older cars are less expensive to replace, but the most sophisticated cars will generally require a specific device to start the car, which can cost up to $500 to replace.
The type of key as well as the location of the car may also impact the cost of a new car key. If you lose your keys in an unfamiliar location, you could be charged a higher fee for towing your car to the nearest dealer to get a new key programmed. You can cut down on this expense by keeping keys in a safe place, such as your home or in the office.
It is also important to understand that most of the time keys for new cars has to be programmed by a dealer. This is due to the fact that most major dealers do not have mobile key programming services and are able to do this in their workshop. This can be a big expense in the case of losing your car's only set of keys, therefore it is best to take preventative measures and keep a spare set with you at all times.
Cost of replacement keys
Depending on the make and model of your car, you may need to purchase replacement keys from an auto locksmith. Check the key of your car to determine if it's a transponder or smart key chip. These technologies can raise the cost of your car key replacement.
A typical car that does not have a keyfob can be affordable and can be duplicated at the local hardware store for less than $25. It's best to have a spare in the event that you lose the original.
The latest cars come with a key fob that emits an electronic signal to unlock and start the vehicle. It can be a challenge to replace if you lose it in the event that you lose it, since you'll need to contact the manufacturer for a new one and pair it with your vehicle. The cost of an alternative key fob ranges from $50 to $125.
In certain instances, you can replace a keyfob at the dealership if you can provide proof of ownership, like an official registration or a title. Dealers may charge an additional cost to cover travel expenses and time spent in remote locations. Alternately, you can purchase an aftermarket key online, or even directly from the manufacturer. This option may be cheaper however it's more risky due to the fact that the quality of the keys cannot be guaranteed.
You should never attempt to break into your own car using wire hangers or force, because this could trigger alarms and make it difficult for an expert locksmith to open your car door. This could also damage the lock, which will cause cost-intensive repairs or replacements. If you can find the car keys, it might be worth paying more to have them copied by an auto expert rather than at the dealership. This can save you lots of money, particularly if you have a spare key at home.