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The Cost of a Replacement Car Key It can be very frustrating to lose your car keys. But it's important to remember that a replacement key may not be as expensive as you think. The cost of a replacement for a car key depends on several factors, including the kind of key you need and the location of your home. Traditional keys are the least expensive, while smart keys are the most expensive. Cost of the parts The cost will vary depending on the type of key that you need. Keys that are standard, but without transponder chips can be copied for anywhere between $50 to $110. If you need the keyfob to be chipped or a push-to-start vehicle that requires a second fob the costs will increase. These types of keys are costly to duplicate or replace and are harder for car thieves to break into. The cost is also dependent on the year, make and type of car you own. replacement key for a car in newer cars will need to be connected with an auto locksmith or dealer. That means that the spare key needs to be programmed with the car, which could cost up to $200. The cost of replacement keys is also affected by: Auto locksmiths may be the most affordable, but they lack the tools needed to deal with advanced key fobs or vehicles. If you don't have the right tools, it could be difficult to duplicate a simple key at an hardware shop. You can also seek roadside assistance to assist you get a replacement key however, they'll likely take your vehicle to a dealership, and the process could take several days to complete. If you have an old key fob, it is recommended to purchase laser-cut all-in-one keys and program them by yourself. This is becoming increasingly difficult, as many key fobs are equipped with security features that stop theft. Many companies offer software programs to design keys. However, these are only available as an option to customers who have service contracts. If you try to get around these restrictions, it can cause problems as most locksmiths will not allow cars to be opened if they have been forced or tampered with. Insurance companies will be notified in the event that you employ wire hangers to unlock your car. Cost of Labor The cost of replacing a car key will be contingent on the type of key you require. A traditional double-edged car key can usually be duplicated at a local hardware store for less than $10. To program and create more advanced keys, you'll require special equipment. This can add significantly to the total cost of replacing keys for cars. You'll also need a brand new key fob if the vehicle has one to unlock and start it. The cost could be anywhere from to $200 based on the make and model. Many newer vehicles use a transponder in the key that must be programmed and replaced in order to work correctly. This is an additional expense that can be difficult to estimate until the key actually is lost and needs to be replaced. A cutting machine with specialized capabilities is also required for the creation of the new key replacement. They can be costly to purchase and not readily available to those who do not have a mechanic's shop. The key housing also needs to be replaced, which could increase the cost of replacing a key. Based on the type of car key, you may have to purchase additional replacement parts in addition to. For example, some key fobs include features like panic buttons and remote lock/unlock that can add to the overall cost. Additionally, some key fobs need a battery which can be expensive to replace. It is best to create an extra key before you lose your primary. This will allow you to avoid the anxiety of losing your keys and also ensure that you have a backup. If you do end up needing an additional key, you should seek out a locksmith or car dealer with the right equipment to work with your vehicle. It will cost less than purchasing a new key from the dealer and you can avoid the cost-intensive fees associated with this method. If you have keys that require programming, it's essential to keep a record of the immobilizer code or key number in case you need to get it reprogrammed in the future. This information can be found on your registration and title or any other document. A locksmith or auto dealer may charge a fee to provide this information. Cost of Equipment Modern automobiles have key fobs which can lock, unlock, and start the vehicle by pressing one button. These devices are convenient, but expensive to replace when they're lost or damaged. Luckily, locksmiths can often save you money by replacing these types of keys without the added expense of replacing the device itself. However, there are several aspects to take into consideration when the cost of replacing a car key. The Year, Make & Model of the vehicle There are numerous kinds of car keys ranging from laser-cut keys to switchblades. These keys are very difficult to duplicate due to being so distinct. This is particularly relevant for modern car keys, that have transponders that need to be programmed to the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, however it is generally more expensive than a copy of the keys. Another aspect that could affect the cost of replacing a car key is the model of car. Keys for older cars that are basic cost less to replace. However the most modern automobiles require a specific device that can cost upwards of $500 to replace. The type of key and location of the vehicle could also influence the cost of a replacement key. If you lose your keys in a remote location, you could be charged a higher price to take your vehicle to the nearest dealership to get a new key programmed. This cost is prevented by keeping a spare key in a safe location like at home or work. It is also important to remember that the majority of the time keys for new cars must be programmed at the dealer. This is because the majority of dealers do not provide mobile key programming and can only perform this service in their workshop. This can be a big cost in the event of losing your only set of car keys, which is why it's best to take preventative measures and keep a spare with you always. Cost of replacing keys You may have to purchase replacement keys from an auto locksmith or dealer, depending on the model and make of your vehicle. Before you do, check the type of key in your vehicle and whether it is equipped with a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can raise the cost of replacing your car's keys. A traditional car key without key fobs is inexpensive and can usually be duplicated at the local hardware store for under $25. It's always a good idea to have a backup just in case you lose the original. The majority of new cars have the key fob that emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your vehicle. It can be a challenge to replace when it's lost in the event that you lose it, since you'll need to contact the manufacturer to get a new one and pair it with your car. The cost of a key fob replacement can vary between $50-$150. In certain instances, you can replace a keyfob at a dealer if you provide proof of ownership, like a registration or title. However, the dealer might charge an additional fee for the service to cover travel costs and time spent at an unreachable location. You can also buy an aftermarket car key online, or directly from the manufacturer. This is a cheaper option but it's more risky as the quality of the keys can't be guaranteed. Don't attempt to break into your car using wire hangers or force. This could trigger alarms and make it harder for a locksmith to open the door. This could also cause damage to the lock, which would result in more expensive repairs or replacements. If you can locate your car keys, it may be worth the extra cost to have them duplicated by an auto repair shop instead of at the dealership. This could save you lots of money, particularly if you have an extra key at home.