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The Cost of a Replacement Car Key It can be very frustrating to lose your car keys. It's important to realize that a replacement key might not be as costly as you think. The cost of purchasing a new car key is determined by a variety of aspects, including the kind of replacement key you require and the location you live in. The traditional keys are the cheapest, while the smart keys are more expensive. Cost of Parts The price will vary based on the type of key that you require. Keys that are standard and do not have transponder chips are priced from $50 to $110. The cost increases for those who require a key fob equipped with a transponder chip or a push-to-start vehicle that requires a second fob to turn on the car. These types of keys can be expensive to duplicate or replace and are more difficult for thieves to gain access to. The cost can also be dependent on the year, make and model of car you have. Newer cars may have transponder chips which need to be linked to the car by a dealer or auto locksmith. This means that keys that are spare will need to be programmed with the car, which could cost up to $200. The cost of replacement keys can also be affected by: Auto locksmiths are the cheapest alternative, but they do not have all the equipment needed to handle more advanced key fobs and vehicles. You can try to copy the basic key yourself at a hardware store, however, the process can be time-consuming and difficult in the absence of the appropriate tools. You can also rely on roadside assistance to assist you get a replacement key but they'll probably tow your car to a dealership, and the process could take several days to complete. If you have an old key fob, it is best to buy laser-cut all-in-one keys and program them by yourself. This is becoming increasingly difficult as a lot of key fobs are equipped with security features that stop theft. Many companies offer software to make keys. However, these are only available as an option for customers who have service contracts. If you try to get around these restrictions, it can lead to problems, since most locksmiths won't open cars that were forced or tampered with. Insurance providers will be alerted in the event that you employ wire hangers to open your car. Cost of Labor The cost of replacing the car key will vary on the type of key you require. A standard double-edged car keys can usually be duplicated at a local hardware store for less than $10. To program and create more sophisticated keys, you will need special equipment. This can significantly increase the total cost of replacing a car key. If your car has a key fob to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll need install a new fob as well. The cost could range from $100 to $200 depending on your vehicle's model and make. Many newer vehicles use transponders inside the key, which needs to be programmed and replaced in order to work properly. This is a cost that is difficult to estimate until the key actually is lost and needs to be replaced. To make a new replacement key, a specially-designed cutting machine is required. They can be costly to purchase and aren't readily available to those who do not have an auto mechanic's shop. The key housing needs to be replaced, which could increase the cost of a replacement key. Depending on the car key type, you may also need to purchase additional replacement parts. Certain key fobs, for example, have features like panic or remote lock/unlock buttons which can add to the total cost. Additionally, some key fobs require a battery that can be costly to replace. It is advisable to make a spare car key prior to the time you lose your original key. This will reduce the stress that comes with losing keys and ensure that you always have a functional backup. If you need an additional key, you should try to find an auto dealer or locksmith equipped to work with your vehicle. This will be less expensive than purchasing a new one from a dealership and will let you avoid the high cost associated with those options. It is important to keep the immobilizer code and the key number if you need to reprogramme a key. This information can be found on your registration and title or any other document. A locksmith or auto dealer will charge a fee to provide this information. Cost of Equipment Modern cars have key fobs that can lock, unlock, and start the car by simply pressing a button. These devices can be extremely useful, but they are expensive to replace when they're lost or damaged. Luckily, locksmiths can often save you money by replacing these kinds of keys without the added expense of replacing the device itself. However, there are many things to consider when it comes to determining the cost of a replacement car key. The Year, Make & Model of the Vehicle There are many kinds of keys for cars, ranging from simple laser cut keys to switchblade keys. Keys of this kind are distinct and are difficult to duplicate. This is particularly relevant for modern car keys that have transponders that require programming to the vehicle. This can be done by a professional, but will cost more than a standard key copy. The model of car you drive can also affect the cost. Cars with basic keys cost less to replace. However the most sophisticated automobiles require a specific device that can cost upwards of $500 to replace. The type of key and the location of the car may also affect the cost of a new car key. You could be charged more to tow your vehicle to the nearest dealer if you lose your keys somewhere unknown. This cost can be reduced by keeping a spare key in a safe place like at home or work. It is also important to know that the majority times keys for new cars has to be programmed by a dealer. This is because the majority of dealers do not have mobile key programming services and are able to do this in their workshop. This could be a huge expense if you end up losing your car's only set of keys, which is why it's recommended to take preventative measures and keep a spare set with you always. Cost of replacement keys Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you may need to purchase replacement keys from an auto dealer or locksmith. Check the key of your car to determine if it is equipped with an electronic transponder or smart key chip. These technologies can raise your car key replacement cost. A classic car without a keyfob is cheap and can be duplicated in an area hardware store for less than $25. It's a good idea to have a backup just in the event that you lose your original. Most modern cars come with a key fob which emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your vehicle. It's a hassle to replace in the event of a loss, as you'll need to contact the manufacturer to get an alternative one and then pair it with your vehicle. auto key replacement of a replacement key fob ranges between $50 and $125. In certain instances, you can change a keyfob in the dealership if you have proof of ownership, like an official registration or a title. However, the dealer might charge an additional cost to cover travel expenses and time spent on remote locations. You can also purchase an aftermarket car key online or directly from the manufacturer. This is less expensive, but it could be more risky as the quality of these keys cannot be guaranteed. Never try to hack into your car using wire hangers or force. This could raise alarms and make it more difficult for a locksmith to open the door. This could also damage the lock, which will lead to higher costs for repairs or replacements. If you can locate your car keys, it could be worth the extra expense to have them copied by an auto repair shop instead of at the dealership. This could save you a lot of money, especially if you have an extra key at home.