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The Cost of a Replacement Car Key Losing your car keys could be a stressful experience. It's important to keep in mind that a replacement key for your car might not cost more than you think. The cost of purchasing a new car key is determined by various factors including the type of replacement key you need and your location. Traditional keys are the cheapest while the smart keys are more expensive. Cost of the parts Depending on the kind of key you require the price can vary. Keys that are standard, but without transponder chips can be copied for between $50 to $110. If you need a keyfob with a chip or a push-to-start vehicle that requires a second fob the cost will rise. Those types of keys are costly to duplicate or replace, and are difficult for car thieves to steal. The cost is also dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle you own. Newer vehicles may come with transponder chips that need to be paired with the car by an auto locksmith or dealer. That means that a spare key will have to be programmed with the car. This could cost as much as $200. The cost of replacement keys can also be affected by: Auto locksmiths may be the most affordable however, they don't have the equipment needed to handle complex key fobs or vehicles. You can copy a basic key by yourself at a hardware store, however, the process takes a long time and may be a challenge when you don't have the right tools. You can also seek roadside assistance to assist you obtain a new key, but they will likely tow your car to a dealer and the process could take days to complete. If you have an older key fob, it is best to buy laser-cut all-in-one keys and program them by yourself. This is becoming increasingly difficult since many key fobs come with security features that can prevent theft. Many companies have software that can be used to make keys, but they are typically only available to customers who have service contracts or as a courtesy through the dealership. Most locksmiths won't open vehicles that have been forced to open or altered. automotive key replacement will be alerted in the event that you use wire hangers to unlock your car. Cost of Labor The cost of replacing the car key will vary on the kind you require. A standard double-edged car key is usually duplicated at your local hardware store for less than $10. However, more sophisticated keys require specialized equipment to design and manufacture. This can significantly increase the cost of replacing your car key. You'll also need a new key fob if your vehicle has one to unlock it and start it. The cost could range from $100 to $200, depending on the vehicle's model and make. In addition, many modern vehicles also include a transponder inside the key that needs to be replaced and programmed to function correctly. This is an additional expense that can be difficult to estimate until the key actually is lost and must be replaced. A cutting machine with specialized capabilities is also required to create the new replacement key. They are expensive and aren't readily available to people who do not have an auto mechanic shop. The key housing must also be replaced, which may increase the cost of replacing a key. Depending on the type of car key you have, you may have to purchase other replacement parts too. For example, some key fobs include features such as remote lock/unlock and panic buttons that can add to total cost. Certain key fobs also require a battery that can be costly to replace. It is advisable to create an extra key before you lose the original. This will ease the anxiety of losing your keys, and ensure you have an extra. If you do end up needing an additional key, you should try to find an auto dealer or locksmith that has the proper equipment to work with your vehicle. This will be less expensive than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer and you can avoid the cost-intensive fees associated with this method. It is important to keep a record of your immobilizer code and key number if you have to reprogramme a key. This information can be found on your registration, title or other documents. A locksmith or auto dealer will charge a fee for providing this information. Cost of Equipment Modern cars come with key fobs that are able to lock, unlock, and start the car with just the button. These devices are convenient, however they can be costly to replace if they become lost or damaged. Fortunately, locksmiths can save you money by replacing these types of keys without the added cost of replacing the device itself. There are many factors to consider when determining the cost of the replacement of a car key. The year, the make and model of the vehicle. There are a variety of car keys ranging from laser-cut keys to switchblades. They are extremely difficult to duplicate due to being unique. This is particularly true for modern car keys, which have transponders in them that need to be programmed to the vehicle. This can be done by a professional, however it will cost more than a standard key copy. The model of the vehicle will influence the cost. Keys for older cars that are basic cost less to replace. However the most modern automobiles require a specific device that can cost as much as $500 to replace. The type of key and the location of the car may also affect the cost of a new key. If you lose your keys in a remote area, you may be charged a higher fee for towing your car to the nearest dealership to have a new one programmed. This cost can be avoided by keeping a spare key in a safe location like at home or at work. It is also important to remember that the majority of the time the new car key must be programmed at the dealer. This is because the majority of dealers don't have mobile key programming services and are able to do this in their workshop. It can be costly if you lose your only set of keys. So, it's better to keep a spare set with you. Cost of replacing keys You may need to buy new keys from an automotive locksmith or dealer, depending on the model and make of your vehicle. Examine the key in your vehicle to determine if it's a transponder or smart key chip. These technologies can increase the cost of your car key replacement. A typical car that doesn't have a keyfob is cheap and can be duplicated at an area hardware store for less than $25. It's a good idea have a backup in case you lose the original. Most recent cars come with a key fob which emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your car. This can be a major hassle to replace in the event that it is lost, as you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to request a replacement key and have it paired with your vehicle. The cost of a replacement key fob ranges between $50 and $125. In some instances, you may be able to change a keyfob in the dealership if you can provide proof of ownership, such as an official registration or a title. Dealers may charge an additional cost to cover travel expenses and time spent in remote locations. You can also purchase an aftermarket key on the internet or even directly from the vehicle manufacturer. This is a cheaper option, however it is more risky since the quality of these keys can't be assured. It is not advisable to gain entry into your car using wire hangers or force, as this could trigger alarms and make it difficult for a professional locksmith to unlock your car's door. This could also damage the lock and result in additional charges for a complete repair or replacement. If you can find the car keys, it might be worth the extra cost to have them copied by an auto technician rather than at the dealership. This can save you money, particularly when you have an extra car key in your home.