Factors That Influence the Cost For Replacement Car Key
When you lose your car keys, it could be a stressful event. The cost of a new key will vary based on the type of vehicle and the key type.
The first thing you need to do is determine what kind of key your vehicle comes with. Some vehicles are equipped with advanced keys that can only be changed at the dealership.
What is the model and make of your car?
The days of stepping into a hardware shop and having duplicate car keys made for pennies are now gone. Key fobs are today 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 less expensive than traditional keys.
The make and model of your vehicle will determine the price you pay for a brand new key. In general, the more old keys, the less expensive it is. The older keys are essentially metal models that work by turning the ignition cylinder. They don't require special technology. They can be replaced at a reasonable price by an automotive locksmith or purchased from a dealership or car parts store.
Newer cars are built with advanced technology and safety features that include a smart key that locks and unlocks your doors from a distance, as well as a proximity sensor that starts your engine. They can only be programmed by a professional with special equipment. This kind of machine is generally only available through dealerships.
Laser-cut keys require specialized equipment to make spare. These are thicker than conventional keys and have deep ridges and grooves for more durability and security. The price of a laser-cut key is often a little more than an key for cars, but it could be significantly more if it has a transponder.
You could pay between $100 and 850 dollars for the new car key, depending on the model and model of your car. This does not include taxes, fees or other expenses associated with the purchase. Auto locksmiths are the best choice to purchase an updated key. They are able to offer reasonable prices and will usually be in a position to supply you with a key within a short time. You can also seek the help of roadside assistance companies, though they are often more expensive and may not be as reliable.
The kind of key
Many people are unaware that the cost of duplicating a car key can vary depending on the type of key you are using. While a classic double-edged steel car key can easily be replaced at a local hardware store for less than $10, modern key fobs require professional programming to ensure they work with your specific vehicle. It is important to choose a locksmith who offers mobile service and has the tools and software necessary to create a new car key on the instantaneously.
Transponder keys are required in the most recent vehicles. They can be purchased from the dealer or auto parts stores. They're 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 car key to replace.
Laser-cut keys can also be more difficult to duplicate and they are usually more expensive. They have distinct cuts that need to be etched into the blank, and they require a specific machine which is only available in dealerships. They can add $50 or more to the cost of a new key.
Switchblade keys are also very expensive and are hard to duplicate. These are the keys you've likely seen your buddies playing with and fold into their key fobs. They can be replaced by a locksmith at $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 vehicle computer. They are the most sophisticated and secure keys, however they are also the most expensive. It's not uncommon for them to run up to $600. It's best to talk with your locksmith, dealer, or mechanic about the different kinds of car keys and how much they'll cost to duplicate or program them.
The location of your car
The days of buying an extra key for your car from a hardware shop for less than $10 have long gone. Today, it can cost up to $160 or more to replace a lost or damaged keydepending on the type of key you require. Here are the main factors that affect the cost of replacing keys:
The model and make of your vehicle will have the primary factors that determine the price for a replacement car key. The cost of duplicating or fixing a key for a newer vehicle can be higher than an older model. This is due to the fact that they have modern technology. Certain vehicles require special equipment to cut the blades on the keys which can increase the cost.
The majority of cars have a remote key fob which is an electronic device that lets you lock and unlock your car from a distance. It is useful in rainy or unsafe areas, but is susceptible to damage or theft. The key fob is connected to the ignition switch via an electrical wire. It can be reset at your local car dealership or an automotive locksmith.
Key fobs can be connected to your phone so that you can start your car using your smartwatch or any other device. Key fobs are the most expensive as they require software codes that can only be obtained from the manufacturer.
The place you live will also affect the cost of a replacement car key. Prices can be higher in large cities or rural areas, along with different types of locks. This is because some locks are more difficult to cut or open, requiring more expertise and training.
If you have a standard metal car key with chip inside, a locksmith or your car dealer can usually duplicate it at a very low cost. If you have a key fob that is more advanced, you'll have to take it to the dealer to get it replaced.
The majority of dealerships charge a fee however their service is often more reliable and can save you time and money. Moreover, the price of a car key fob will typically be covered under your auto insurance policy, although it is important to check the terms of your policy prior to making a claim.
The locksmith or towtruck
It's not the most pleasant experience to replace a car key, but if you know what you're doing, it can be made easier. You'll want to know what kind of key you own and the locksmith or tow truck that will offer the service, and also how much it will cost. You should also find out if you're covered by your warranty or insurance for your car.
A traditional double-edged lock can be replaced 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, like a key fob or transponder you'll need to consult a professional automotive locksmith. The locksmith will need the model and year of the vehicle, evidence of ownership (such as the registration or title) and an extra. If you have a fob with switchblade keys, it could require special programming that only a dealer can do.
If car key replacement fob own laser cut keys, or one with an embedded transponder chip, it'll need to be programmed to the vehicle. This will cost between $150 and $225. It is more expensive to do it by a dealer, but you'll avoid the hassle of waiting for a third party to complete the work.
If you try to remove a damaged or jammed key on your own could cause further damage to the lock and make the task more difficult. If you have a spare key it's recommended to call an expert as they'll be familiar with the kind of lock and have plans for any issues that might arise.
You should write down your vehicle identification number, or VIN, before you lose your car keys. The VIN can be found in several places. It's usually on the dashboard of the driver's side of the car, beneath the hood, within the door jamb or inside the trunk. The VIN can also be found on the papers that came with your vehicle or in your insurance policy.