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 vehicle type and the key type.
Find out which type of key your car has. Some newer vehicles have advanced keys that can only be changed by a dealer.
What is the make and model of your vehicle?
The days of being able to go to a hardware store and have duplicate car keys made for pennies are gone. Key fobs of today are tiny electronic devices that comprise everything from an RF transceiver and battery, to printed circuit boards and a specific transponder chip. They are more secure and less expensive than traditional keys.
The make and model of your vehicle will eventually determine how much you'll pay for a new car key. In general older keys are more affordable. Older keys are the basic metal keys that start cars by turning an ignition cylinder and don't require any special equipment to operate. These keys 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 the latest technology and safety features that include a smart key that locks and unlocks your doors from a distance, and proximity sensors that start your engine. These can only be programmed with special equipment and are best suited to an expert who has access to this type of machine which is typically only available at a dealership.
Laser-cut keys require specialized equipment to make spare. These are thicker than traditional keys and feature deep grooves and ridges to ensure greater security and durability. The cost of a laser-cut key is typically a little higher than that of a standard automotive key, but can be significantly higher if it has a transponder.
Depending on the make and model of your car, you can expect to pay anywhere between $100-$850 for a new car key. This does not include taxes, fees or other charges related to the purchase. Generally, the best alternative for obtaining an alternative 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 may also seek the assistance of roadside assistance companies however 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 depend on the kind of key you own. A traditional double-edged car key can be easily repaired at your local hardware shop for less than $10. However, modern key fobs need to be programmed by a professional to ensure that they work with your vehicle. It's important to choose a locksmith that offers mobile service and has the tools and software necessary to create a new car key right on the on the spot.
Transponder keys are required to operate in more recent cars. They can be bought at the dealer or auto parts stores. They are 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 costly type of car key replacement.
Laser-cut keys are also difficult to replicate, and they're often more expensive than traditional key types too. They have distinct cuts that need to be etched into the key blank, and they require a special tool that is only available at dealerships. They can add $50 or more to a brand new key.
Switchblade keys are a different kind of hard-to-replicate car key and can be expensive as well. These are the keys you've probably seen your friends fooling around with and fold into their key fobs. They can be replaced by a locksmith for $150 or more, but they're much safer to steal than regular keys.
Smart keys are the most expensive keys for cars. They utilize radio frequency to communicate with your vehicle computer. They are the most secure and highest-tech keys, but they're also the most expensive to replace. It's not common for them to cost upwards of 600 dollars. It's best to talk with your dealership, locksmith or mechanic about the different types of car keys and how much they'll cost to replicate or program them.
The location of your car
The days when you could go to a hardware store and get a duplicate car key made for less than $10 are gone. Today, it can cost upwards of $160 or more to replace a lost key- depending on the type of key you require. Here are some factors that influence the cost of replacing keys:
The make and model of your vehicle have the primary factors that determine the cost of replacing a car key. The cost of replicating or repairing a key for a newer vehicle can be higher than an older model. This is because they are equipped with the latest technology. Certain vehicles require specialized tools to cut the blades of the keys, which can add to the cost.
Most cars come equipped with a remote-controlled key fob. This electronic device allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle from an extended distance. It is useful in rainy or unsafe areas, but is susceptible to damage or theft. The key fob can be reprogrammed 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 with your smartwatch or other device. Key fobs of this kind are usually the most expensive to replace, since they require a particular software code that only the manufacturer has access to.
The location you live in can also impact the price of a replacement key for your car. Prices can be higher in cities or rural areas as well as with different types of locks. This is because some locks are more difficult to cut or open, and require more skill and knowledge.
If you own a standard metal car key that has a chip in it, a locksmith or your dealer will usually duplicate it for a reasonable price. If you have keys that are more advanced, you'll have bring it to the dealer to have it replaced.
Most dealers charge a premium, but their service is often more reliable and could save you time and money. The cost of a key fob to a car is covered under the insurance policy for autos. However, it is essential to know the policy before filing claims.
The locksmith or towtruck
It's not a pleasant experience to replace the car key however, if you know what you are doing, it's possible to make the process easier. You'll need to know the kind of key you own, the locksmith or tow truck that will offer the service, and also how much it will cost. Check to see if you are covered by your vehicle insurance or warranty.
A traditional double-edged lock can be replaced for around $10 at the hardware store. You can even get an original key made at home in the event that you lose the original key. If you have an advanced key, like transponder or key fob it is necessary to consult a professional automotive locksmith. The locksmith will require the model and year of the vehicle, proof of ownership (such as a registration or title), and an extra. If you have a fob equipped with a switchblade keys, it could require a special programming process that only a dealer is able to do.
If you have a laser cut key, or one with a transponder chip built in it, it must be programmed to the vehicle. This will cost between $150 to $225. Getting it done at the dealership is a little more expensive however it will save you the hassle of waiting for a third party to complete the task.
Trying to extract a broken or stuck key on your own could cause further damage to the lock, making the task more difficult. If cars keys replacement have a spare key it's recommended to call a professional since they'll be familiar with the particular type of lock and have plans for any issues that might arise.
It is important to note down your VIN, also known as the vehicle identification number. VIN, prior to losing keys to your car. The VIN can be found in several places. It is typically located on the dashboard of the driver's side of the car, beneath the hood, within the door jamb or inside the trunk. You can also find the VIN on the paperwork that came with your vehicle or in your insurance policy.