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The Cost of a Replacement Car Key It can be frustrating to lose your car keys. It's important to keep in mind that a replacement key for your car might not cost as much as you think. The cost of a new car key is determined by a variety of factors, including the type of replacement key you require and the location you live in. Traditional keys are the most affordable while the smart keys are more expensive. Cost of parts The price will vary based on the type of key you need. Keys that are standard and do not have transponder chips are available for $50 to $110. If you need an electronic keyfob or a push-to-start vehicle that requires a second fob the cost will rise. These types of keys can be expensive to duplicate or replace and are harder for car thieves to steal. The cost is also affected by the year, make and model of car you own. Newer cars may have transponder chips which need to be connected to the car by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that a replacement key will need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle which can cost up to $200. Other factors that affect the cost of replacement keys include: Auto locksmiths are the least expensive alternative, but they don't have the equipment required to deal with more sophisticated key fobs and vehicles. If you don't have the proper tools, it can be difficult to copy a simple key at an hardware shop. You can also seek roadside assistance to help get a replacement key, but they will likely take your vehicle to a dealer and the process could take days to complete. If you have an older key fob, it is ideal to purchase laser-cut all in-one keys and program them yourself. This is becoming more difficult since many key fobs come with security features that stop theft. Many companies offer software to make keys. However, these are only a service to customers with service contracts. Most locksmiths won't open vehicles that have had their locks forced or altered. If you're able use wire hangers or another method to open the car it will signal red flags to insurance companies. Cost of Labor The kind of car key you require will determine how much it will cost to replace. A traditional double-edged car key can be duplicated at a local hardware store for less than $10. However, more advanced keys require special machines to make and program. This could significantly increase the cost of replacing your car keys. You'll also need a new key fob if the vehicle has one to unlock and start it. This can run up to $200, depending on the model and make of your vehicle. Furthermore, many of the newer models also use a transponder chip inside the key that needs to be replaced and programmed to function correctly. This is an additional cost that is hard to estimate until the key actually is lost and needs to be replaced. To create a new replacement key, a special cutting machine will also be required. They are costly and aren't readily available to people who do not have a mechanic shop. The key housing needs to be replaced, which could increase the cost of replacing a key. Depending on the car key type, you may also need to purchase replacement parts. For example, some key fobs come with features such as panic and remote lock/unlock buttons that can add to the overall cost. Certain key fobs also require a battery, which can be expensive to replace. It is recommended to create a spare car key prior to the time you lose your original key. This will reduce the stress that comes with losing your keys and will ensure that you always have a functioning backup. If you do need a new key, try to find a locksmith or car dealer equipped to work with your car. It will cost less than buying a new key from a dealer and will save you the fees that are high when you choose this option. It is essential to keep an inventory of your immobilizer code as well as your key number if you have to reprogramme your key. This information is available 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 have key fobs that allow you to lock, unlock, and even start the car by simply pressing one button. These devices are convenient, but expensive to replace when they are damaged or lost. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace these keys without having to replace the device. However, there are many factors to consider when it comes to the cost of replacing a car key. The Year, Make and Model of the vehicle There are many different types of keys for cars, ranging from basic, laser cut keys to switchblade keys. These keys are distinct and are difficult to duplicate. This is especially true for modern car key transponders that need to be programmed into the vehicle. This process can be done by a specialist, but it generally costs more than a simple key copy. Another factor that can impact the cost of a replacement car key is the model of car. Cars with basic keys cost less to replace. However the most modern automobiles require a specific device that can cost upwards of $500 to replace. The key type and location of the vehicle can affect the cost of a replacement car key. If you lose your keys in a foreign area, you could be charged more to take your vehicle to the nearest dealer to have a new one programmed. This cost is prevented by keeping an extra key in a safe location such as at home or work. It is also important to know that, most times keys for new cars must be programmed at the dealer. vehicle key replacement is due to the fact that most major dealers don't offer mobile key programming facilities and can only do it in their workshop. It can be costly when you lose your sole set of keys. It's advisable to keep a spare set with you. Cost of Replacement Keys You may have to purchase replacement keys from an automotive locksmith or a dealer depending on the model and make of your vehicle. Before you do, check your vehicle's key type and whether it is equipped with a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can increase the cost of your car key replacement. A traditional car key without key fobs is affordable and can be duplicated at a local hardware store for less than $25. It's a good idea to have a backup 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. This can be a major hassle to replace in the event that it is lost, as you'll have to contact your manufacturer of the car for a new key and pair it with your vehicle. The cost of a standard key fob replacement could be anywhere from $50 to $150. In some cases you can change a keyfob in the 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 expenses and time spent in an unreachable location. You can also purchase an aftermarket key on the internet or even directly from the manufacturer. This is less expensive, however it is more risky as the quality of these keys can't be assured. Do not attempt to break into your car using wire hangers or even force, as this could trigger alarms and make it difficult for a professional locksmith to open the door of your car. This could also cause damage to the lock, which could result in higher costs for repairs or replacements. If you can locate your car keys it may be worth paying more to have them cloned by an auto expert instead of at the dealership. This can help you save money, especially if there is an extra car key at home.