Factors That Influence the Cost For Replacement Car Key
Losing keys to your car can be a nightmare. The cost of a new key will vary based on the type of vehicle and the type of key.
The first thing you should do is find out what kind of key your vehicle comes with. Some newer vehicles have advanced keys that can only be replaced by a dealership.
What is the make and model of your vehicle?
The days where you could go to a hardware store and have duplicate car keys made for pennies are gone. Today's key fobs are miniature electronic devices with everything from an battery and RF transmitter to printed circuit boards and transponder chips that are specifically designed for keys. They are more secure and more expensive than traditional keys.
The model and make of your car will determine the cost you pay for a new key. In general, the older keys, the less expensive it will cost. Older keys are simple metal models that work by turning the ignition cylinder. They don't require special technology. They can be replaced at a reasonable cost through an automotive locksmith or purchased from a dealer or parts store.
The newer cars have advanced safety and technology features, like a smart key that locks and unlocks the doors from afar and a proximity sensor that can start the engine. They can only be programed by a professional using special equipment. This type of machine is generally only available through dealerships.
Laser-cut keys require special equipment to make spare. They are more robust and have deeper grooves and ridges that increase durability and security. The price of a key laser-cut is usually a bit more than an car key, but could be significantly higher if it has a transponder.
Based on the make and model of your vehicle It is possible to spend anywhere from $100-$850 for a replacement car key. This does not include any charges, taxes, or extra costs that could be related to the purchase. The most effective option for getting the replacement key is to call an auto locksmith since they offer competitive prices and typically offer a functioning copy in a short amount of time. You can also seek the help of roadside assistance companies, though they are often more expensive and might not be as reliable.
The type of key
Many people are unaware that the cost of duplicated car key can vary depending on the type of key you are using. While a traditional double-edged metal car key can be replaced at your local hardware store for less than $10 Key fobs of today require expert programming to ensure they work with the specific vehicle you have. It's important to choose an locksmith that provides mobile service and has the tools and software required to create a new car key on the spot.
In older vehicles you can typically get an additional key replacement from a dealer or at an auto parts store, however more recent models have transponder keys that need to be programmed in order for them to work. These are more expensive to duplicate, and require a specific machine that is usually only available through the dealer. This makes them the most costly kind of car key replacement.
Laser-cut keys are more difficult to reproduce and are often more expensive than traditional key kinds as well. They have distinct cuts that need to be etched in the key blank, and require a special tool that's only found in dealerships. These can add an additional $50 or more to the price of a new key.
Switchblade keys are another type of hard-to-replicate car key and they can be expensive as well. These are the keys you've likely seen your buddies playing with and they fold up into their key fobs. They can be repaired by a locksmith for $150 or more, but they're much harder to steal than regular keys.
Smart keys are the most expensive kind of car keys and utilize radio frequencies to communicate with your vehicle's computer. 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. It's best to talk with your dealership, locksmith or mechanic about the various types of car keys and the cost to replicate or program them.
Your vehicle's location
The days where you could walk into a hardware store and get an identical car key for less than $10 are long gone. It can cost as high as $160 to replace a key, depending on the type you require. Here are some factors that affect the cost of replacing keys:
The model and make of your vehicle are the primary factors that determine the cost of a replacement car key. Newer vehicles tend to use modern technology, therefore they can be more expensive to duplicate or repair than older models. Some cars require special tools to cut the blades of keys, which can add to the cost.
Most cars come equipped with a remote-controlled key fob. This electronic device lets you to lock and unlock your vehicle from an extended distance. This can be helpful in a stormy or dangerous locations, but it's not impervious to damage or loss. The key fob is connected to the ignition switch using wires and can be programmed at your local car dealership or a locksmith for automotive use.
A key fob can also be linked to your phone so that you can start your car using your smartwatch or other device. Key fobs are the most expensive, as they require software codes which are only available from the manufacturer.
The area of your home could also affect the price for an alternative key. Prices could be higher in large cities or rural areas, and for various types of locks. Certain locks are difficult to open or cut, and require more training and expertise.
A car dealer or locksmith can usually duplicate a standard metal car key that has chip for a reasonable cost. If you have an electronic key fob that is more advanced, you'll need to take it to a dealer to have it replaced.
The majority of dealers will charge a premium for their service, but they're usually more reliable than other options and can save you lots of time and money. The cost of a key fob to an automobile is covered under the auto insurance policy. However, it is important to read the terms before making an insurance claim.
The locksmith or tow truck
It's not a pleasant experience to replace a car key however, if you know what you're doing it can be made much easier. You'll need to know the type of key, the locksmith, or tow truck, who will provide the service and the cost. You should also determine if you're covered by your warranty or car insurance.
A traditional double-edged lock can be repaired for about $10 at an hardware store. You can even have a copy made at home if you have lost the original key. If you own a more technologically advanced key, such as a key fob with switchblade key or transponder key it is necessary to visit an expert locksmith for your vehicle. They'll need the model and year of your vehicle and evidence of ownership (like the title or registration) and a spare key. If you have keys that have an electronic switchblade, it could require special programming. Only a dealer is qualified to perform this.
If you have laser cut keys or one that has a transponder chip built in, it'll need to be programmed to the vehicle. On average it will cost between $150 and $225. If you do it at the dealership can be a little more expensive but it will spare you the headache of waiting for an outside party to get the job done.
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. Call a professional if you have a spare. They are familiar with your lock type and have backup plans in the event of any problems.
Before you lose your keys, make sure you write down the vehicle identification number (VIN). replacement key for car near me is located in several places in the dashboard on the driver's side of your car, beneath the engine's hood or in the door jamb or in the trunk of your vehicle. The VIN can also be found on the paperwork that came along with your vehicle, or on your insurance policy.