Factors That Influence the Cost For Replacement Car Key
When you lose your car keys, it could be a stressful event. The cost of a replacement key could vary, depending on the kind of vehicle and the kind of key.
Find out what type of key your car has. Certain models with modern keys that can only be changed by the dealership.
The model and make of your vehicle
The days where you could go to an hardware store and purchase duplicate car keys made for pennies are gone. Key fobs of today are tiny 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 expensive than traditional keys.
The model and make of your car will determine the price you pay for a new key. In general, the older key, the more affordable it will cost. Older keys are basic metal models that start cars when turned in an ignition cylinder and don't require any special technology to function. They can be replaced at a reasonable price through an automotive locksmith or purchased at a dealership or a car parts store.
The latest models come with advanced security 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 are only controlled by a professional using special equipment. This kind of machine is usually only available at dealerships.
Laser-cut keys require special equipment to make a spare. They are more robust and have more ridges and groves to improve security and durability. The cost of a key laser-cut is usually a bit more than an key for cars, but it could be significantly more if it includes a transponder chip.
You could pay between $100 and 850 dollars for the new car key, depending on the model and make of your vehicle. This doesn't include charges, taxes, or additional costs that may be associated with the purchase. Generally, the best option for getting the replacement key is to call an auto locksmith as they are competitively priced and usually provide you with a working copy within a short period of time. You can also contact roadside assistance providers. However, they can be more expensive and less reliable.
The type 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 classic double-edged metal car key can easily be replaced at a local hardware store for less than $10 Key fobs of today require professional programming to ensure they work with your specific vehicle. This is why it's important to locate an experienced locksmith who can provide mobile service, and that has the right tools and software to make keys for you on the spot.
In older vehicles you can typically get a new replacement key from a dealer or at an auto parts store. However, more recent vehicles have transponder keys that have to be programmed to function. They're more expensive to duplicate and program, since they require a special machine that's typically only available at the dealer. This is why they are the most expensive kind of car key replacement.
Laser-cut keys can also be more difficult to duplicate and are often more expensive. They have distinct cuts that need to be etched into the blank, and require a specific machine that is only available in dealerships. They can add $50 or more to the cost of a new key.
Switchblade keys can be very expensive and are hard to duplicate. These are the keys that you've seen your buddies playing with, and they fold into key fobs. They can be replaced by a locksmith for $150 or more, but they're much harder to steal than regular keys.
Smart keys are the most expensive kind of car keys and use radio frequencies to communicate with the computer in your car. They're the most secure and high-tech keys, however they are the most expensive to replace. It's not uncommon for them to run up to 600 dollars. You should speak to your dealer, locksmith or mechanic to determine the cost to duplicate or program various types of keys.
The location of your vehicle
The days of being able to walk into the hardware store and buy a duplicate car key for less than $10 are gone. Today, it can cost up to $160 or more to replace a lost or damaged key- depending on the type of key you require. Here are the elements that affect the cost of replacing keys:
The make and model of your vehicle have the primary factors that determine the cost of replacing a car key. Newer vehicles tend to use more advanced technology, so they may cost more to duplicate or repair than older models. Additionally, some vehicles require special equipment to cut the blades of the key which can increase the overall cost of replacement.
Most cars come equipped with a remote control key fob. This electronic device lets you to lock and unlock your vehicle from a distance. This is useful in dangerous or bad weather locations, but it's not immune to loss or damage. The key fob can be reset by an automotive locksmith or by your local car dealer.
Key fobs can also be linked to your phone and allow you to start your car by using your smartwatch. Key fobs of this kind are usually the most costly to replace because they require a specific software code that only the manufacturer is able to provide.
The location where you live will also affect the cost of a replacement car key. Prices are higher in large cities or rural areas, along with different kinds of locks. Certain locks are more difficult to open or cut, and require more training and experience.
If you own a standard metal car key that has chip, a locksmith or your dealer will usually duplicate it at a very low price. However, if you have an advanced key fob, the only way to get it replaced is to visit the dealer.
Most dealers charge a premium however their service is usually more reliable and can save you time and money. The cost of a key fob for a car is covered under the auto insurance policy. However, it is essential to know the policy before filing claims.
The tow truck or locksmith
Key replacement for cars isn't an enjoyable experience, however it's less painful with the proper details. You'll have to know the type of key, the locksmith, or tow truck, who will be performing the work and the cost. Make sure you are covered by your car insurance or warranty.
A traditional double-edged lock can be repaired for about $10 at a hardware store. If you lose your original key you can get a replacement made at home. If you have a technologically advanced key, for instance one with a transponder keys or switchblade keys it is necessary to visit a professional locksmith for your automobile. The locksmith will require the model and year of the vehicle, proof of ownership (such as a registration or title), and a spare. If you have a fob that has a switchblade keys, it could require a special programming process that only a dealer is able to do.
If you own a laser cut key or one that has a transponder chip built in the key, it will need to be programmed to the vehicle. On average it will cost about $150 to $225. The process by a dealership is a little more expensive, but it will save you the headache of waiting for an outside party to finish the job.
The lock could be damaged when trying to remove a broken key or jammed one. This will make the task even more difficult. If you have a spare key it's recommended to call an expert since they're familiar with the particular type of lock and have the necessary solutions for any problems that might arise.
It is important to note down your vehicle identification number, or VIN, prior to losing keys to your car. The VIN is found in many places in the dashboard of the driver's side of your car, under the engine's hood, in the door jamb, or in the trunk of your vehicle. car key replacement near me can also be located on the papers that came along with your vehicle or in your insurance policy.