Factors That Influence the Cost For Replacement Car Key
When you lose your car keys, it can be a stressful event. The cost of a new key can differ based on the type of vehicle and the key type.
The first thing you should do is to determine what kind of key your vehicle has. Certain newer models have advanced keys that can only be replaced by a dealership.
What is the model and maker of your car?
The days of going to a hardware shop and having duplicate keys for cars made at pennies are gone. Key fobs of today are tiny electronic devices that contain everything from an RF transceiver battery, to printed circuit boards and a key-specific transponder chips. They are more secure and less expensive than traditional keys.
The make and model of your vehicle will eventually determine the cost for a replacement key for your car. In general, the more old key, the more affordable it is. Older keys are basic metal keys that start cars by turning an ignition cylinder. They do not require any special technology to function. They can be replaced with an automotive locksmith that is standard at an affordable price however, they can also be bought from a car parts store or dealer.
The newer cars have advanced security and technology features, including smart keys that lock and unlocks doors from afar and a proximity sensor to start the engine. These are only programmed by a professional with special equipment. This type of machine is usually only available at dealerships.
Laser-cut keys are a different kind of high-tech key that needs specialized machinery to create a spare. These keys are thicker and have deeper ridges and groves to improve security and durability. A key cut by laser can cost a little bit more than the standard key. However, if the key includes transponders, it may be a lot more.
Depending on the make and model of your car, you can expect to pay between $100 and $850 for a replacement car key. This does not include any fees, taxes or extra costs that could be related to the purchase. The most effective alternative to get an alternative key is to contact an auto locksmith since they offer competitive prices and can usually give you a working copy in a short amount of time. You can also seek the help of roadside assistance providers but they tend to be more expensive and not as reliable.
The kind of key
Many people are unaware that the cost of duplicated car key can differ based on the kind you are using. While a classic double-edged metal car key can easily be replaced at your local hardware store for less than $10 Modern key fobs require professional programming to ensure they work with your specific vehicle. It is essential to select an locksmith that provides mobile service and has the tools and software needed to make a new car key on the on the spot.
Transponder keys are required to operate in the most recent vehicles. They can be bought at the dealer 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 key to replace.
Laser-cut keys can also be more difficult to duplicate and are often more expensive. They feature distinct cuts that must be etched into the blank, and they require a special machine that is only available at dealerships. These can add $50 or more to a brand new key.
Switchblade keys can be expensive and difficult to duplicate. These are the keys that you've seen your friends playing with. They fold into keyfobs. They can be repaired by a locksmith for $150 or more, but they're more difficult to steal than regular keys.
Smart keys are the most expensive car keys. They use radio frequency to connect with your car's computer. They are the most sophisticated and secure keys, but they also cost the most. It's not common for them to cost upwards of $600. You should speak to your locksmith, dealer or mechanic to find out what it will cost to duplicate or program the various kinds of keys.
The location of your car
The days of being able to go to an hardware store and purchase an identical car key for less than $10 are gone. It can cost as high as $160 to replace a car key, depending on the type you require. Here are a few factors that affect the cost of replacing keys:
The model and make of your vehicle will have the biggest influence on the cost of replacing a car key. Newer vehicles tend to use the latest technology, which means they can be more expensive to duplicate or repair than older models. key replacements require special equipment to cut the blades on the keys, which can add to the cost.
Most cars come with a remote key fob which is an electronic device that allows you to lock and unlock your car from the distance. This is useful in dangerous or bad weather locations, but it's not impervious to loss or damage. The key fob is reprogrammable by an automotive locksmith or by your local dealer in cars.
A key fob can be connected to your phone, so that you can start your car using your smartwatch or another device. These key fobs can be the most expensive, as they require software codes that are only available from the manufacturer.
The location where you live can also impact the price of a new car key. Prices are higher in large cities or rural areas, along with different types of locks. Certain locks are more difficult to open or cut, and require more expertise and training.
A locksmith or car dealer is able to duplicate a standard car key with a chip for a reasonable cost. If, however, you have an upgraded key fob, the only option to get it replaced is to go to the dealer.
The majority of dealerships charge a fee however their service is often more reliable and can save you time and money. The cost of a key fob to an automobile is covered under the auto insurance policy. However, it is essential to know the policy before filing claims.
The tow truck or locksmith
Car key replacement isn't an enjoyable experience, however it's less painful when you have the proper details. You'll need to know the type of key, the locksmith, or tow truck, who will be performing the work and the cost. You should also find out if you're covered by your warranty or insurance for your car.
A traditional double-edged key can be replaced for around $10 at an hardware store. You can even have an exact copy made at home if you lost the original key. If you own an advanced key, such as a key fob or transponder it is necessary to talk to a professional locksmith. They will need to have the model and year of your vehicle and evidence of ownership (like the title or registration) and a spare key. If you have a fob that has a switchblade keys, it could require special programming that only a dealer is able to do.
If you have a laser cut key or one that has a transponder chip integrated, it'll need to be programmed to the vehicle. The cost will be between $150 and $225. It's more expensive to have it done by a dealer, but you'll be able to not have to wait for a third party to complete the job.
It is possible to damage the lock by trying to remove a damaged key or jammed. This could make the job even more difficult. Get help from a professional if have a spare. They are familiar with the type of lock you have and have contingencies in case of any problems.
Before you lose your keys, make sure you write down the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). The VIN is found in many places such as on the driver's side dashboard of your car, beneath the engine's hood and in the door jamb or in the trunk of your vehicle. The VIN can also be found on the papers that came along with your vehicle, or on your insurance policy.