Factors That Influence the Cost For Replacement Car Key
If you lose your car keys, it could be a stressful experience. The cost of purchasing a new key can vary depending on the type of vehicle and the key type.
Find out which type of key your car comes with. replacement for key fob 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 visit the hardware store and buy duplicate car keys made for pennies are long gone. Today's key fobs are miniature electronic devices with everything from an RF transmitter and battery to printed circuit boards and transponder chips specifically designed for key fobs. They are more secure and less expensive than traditional keys.
The model and make of your vehicle will determine the cost you pay for a brand new key. In general, the more old key, the more affordable it will cost. Keys older than that are basic metal keys that operate by turning the ignition cylinder. They don't require any special equipment. They can be replaced at a reasonable cost by an automotive locksmith, or purchased from a dealer or parts store.
The latest models come with advanced safety and technology features, such as a smart key that locks and unlocks the doors from a distance and a proximity sensor to start the engine. These can only be programmed by a professional with special equipment. This type of device is usually only available at dealerships.
Laser-cut keys require specialized machinery to make a spare. These keys are thicker and have deeper grooves and ridges that increase the durability and security. Laser-cut automotive keys could cost a little more than a standard key. However when the key comes with transponders, it could be a lot more.
You could pay between $100 and 850 dollars for the new car key, depending on the model and model of your car. This doesn't include fees, taxes, or any other costs associated with the purchase. Auto locksmiths are the best choice to purchase an updated key. They offer competitive prices and will usually be in a position to supply you with one in the shortest amount of time. You can also call roadside assistance providers. However, they may be more expensive and less reliable.
The kind of key
Many people are unaware that the cost of duplicate car keys can vary based on the kind of key you own. While a traditional double-edged metal car key is easily replaced at a hardware store in your area for less than $10 Modern key fobs require professional programming to ensure that they are compatible with the specific vehicle you have. This is why it's important to find a reputable locksmith that offers mobile service, and that has the right tools and software to design a keys for you immediately.
In older cars you can typically get a new replacement key from the dealership or even at an auto parts store, but newer vehicles come with transponder keys that need to be programmed to work. They are more expensive to duplicate and program since they require a special device that is typically only available through the dealer. This makes them the most costly kind of car key replacement.
Laser-cut keys are more difficult to duplicate, and often cost more. They feature distinct cuts that must be etched into the blank, and require a special tool that is only available in dealerships. They can add $50 or more to the cost of a new key.
Switchblade keys can also be expensive and difficult to duplicate. These are the keys you've likely seen your friends fooling around with, and they fold into key fobs. They can be exchanged for $150 or more by a locksmith but are much harder to take.
Smart keys are the most expensive kind of car key and use radio frequencies to communicate with your vehicle's computer. They are the most sophisticated and secure keys, but also the most expensive. It's not unusual for them to cost upwards of 600 dollars. It's best to consult your locksmith, dealer or mechanic about the different types of car keys and the price to replicate or program them.
The location of your vehicle
The days of being able to go to an hardware store and purchase a duplicate car key for less than $10 are long gone. Now, it can cost upwards of $160 or more to replace a lost or damaged keydependent on the type of key you need. Here are the elements that affect the cost of replacing keys:
The make and model of your vehicle are the most significant factors in the cost of replacing a car key. Newer vehicles tend to use modern technology, therefore they may cost more to duplicate or repair than older models. Certain cars require special tools to cut the blades on the keys, which can add to the cost.
The majority of cars have a remote key fob which is a device that lets you lock and unlock your car from an extended distance. It is useful in stormy weather and unsafe areas, but is prone to theft or damage. The key fob is reprogrammable by an automotive locksmith or by your local car dealer.
Key fobs can be connected to your smartphone so that you can start your car with your smartwatch or another device. Key fobs are the most expensive as they require software codes that can only be obtained from the manufacturer.
The location of your house can also affect the price for the replacement key. Prices can be higher in cities or rural areas, along with different kinds of locks. This is due to the fact that some locks are more difficult to open or cut, requiring more expertise and training.
A car dealer or locksmith is able to duplicate a standard metal car key with chip for a reasonable price. However, if you have an upgraded key fob, the only option to replace it is to go to the dealership.
Most dealerships will charge a premium for their service, but they're usually more reliable than other options and could save you lots of time and money. The cost of a key fob to cars can be covered by the auto insurance policy. However, it's important to read the terms before making claims.
The locksmith or towtruck
It's not an enjoyable experience to replace a car key however, if you know what you're doing, it's possible to make the process simpler. You'll need to know what kind of key you have, the locksmith or tow truck that will perform the service, and how much it will cost. You should also check to find out if you're covered under your warranty or insurance for your car.
A traditional double-edged lock can be replaced for about $10 at the hardware store. You can also have an exact copy made at home in the event that you lose the original key. If you own a more technologically advanced key, such as one with a transponder keys or switchblade keys you'll need to go to an expert locksmith for your vehicle. The locksmith will require the model and year of the vehicle, proof ownership (such as a registration or title) as well as a spare. If you have an ignition key fob with an electronic switchblade, it could require special programming. Only a dealer is able to do this.
If you have laser cut keys or one with an embedded transponder chip the key, it will need to be programmed to the vehicle. On average it will cost about $150 to $225. If you do it by a dealership is slightly more expensive but it will spare you the hassle of waiting for an outside party to finish the job.
If you try to remove a damaged or locked key on your own may cause further damage to the lock and make the task more difficult. Contact a professional if you have a spare. They are familiar with the lock model and will have a backup plan in case of any problems.
Before you lose your keys, note down the vehicle identification number (VIN). The VIN can be found in many places. It's usually on the dashboard of the driver's side car, beneath the hood, in the door jamb or inside the trunk. The VIN can also be located on the paperwork that came along with your car or in your insurance policy.