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The Cost of a Replacement Car Key The loss of your car keys can be a very frustrating experience. It is important to keep in mind that a replacement car key may not cost as much as you think. The cost of replacing 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 Depending on what type of key you need the price will vary. Standard keys without transponder chips are available for $50 to $110. The price increases if you need a key fob with a transponder chip, or a push-to start vehicle which requires an additional fob to turn on the car. Keys with these types of features can be costly to duplicate or replace, and are more difficult for thieves to break into. The year, make and model of your car will also impact the cost. The transponder chip on newer cars will need to be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer. That means that a spare key will have to be programmed with the car. This could cost up to $200. Other factors that affect the cost of replacement keys include: Auto locksmiths may be the most expensive, but they lack the equipment to handle advanced key fobs or vehicles. You can copy a basic key in a hardware shop, however, the process takes a long time and may be a challenge when you don't have the appropriate tools. You can also rely on roadside assistance to help get a replacement key but they'll probably take your vehicle to a dealer and the process could take a few days to complete. If you own a more recent key fob, the most efficient way to cut costs is to buy all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. This is becoming more difficult since many key fobs are equipped with security features that stop theft. Many companies offer software to make keys. However, they are only a service to customers who have service contracts. Trying to bypass these restrictions can lead to problems, since locksmiths generally do not open cars that have been forced or tampered with. If you are able to employ wire hangers or a different method to open the car and then raise red flags for insurance providers. Cost of Labor The cost of replacing the car key will vary on the type you need. For less than $10, a traditional double-edged key can be duplicated at an area hardware store. However, more advanced keys require special machines to create and program. This can add significantly to the cost of replacing keys for cars. If your vehicle has an ignition key to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll have to install a new fob also. It can cost as high as $200, depending on the model and make of your vehicle. Furthermore, many of the newer models also include a transponder in the key that needs to be replaced and programmed in order to function correctly. This is a cost that is hard to estimate until the key actually is lost and requires to be replaced. A cutting machine with specialized capabilities is also required to create the new replacement key. These can be expensive to purchase and are not accessible to people who don't have an auto mechanic's shop. The key housing must also be replaced, which can increase the cost of a replacement key. Depending on the kind 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 which can increase the overall cost. Certain key fobs also require a battery that can be costly to replace. It is best to make a spare car key before you lose the one you have. This will help you avoid the stress of losing your keys and ensure that you have a backup. If you need a new car key, locate an authorized locksmith or dealer who has the right equipment to work on your car. This is less expensive than getting a new one from a dealer and could let you avoid some of the high costs associated with these options. If you own an ignition key that requires programming, you must keep a record of the immobilizer code, or the key number in case you need to get it reprogrammed in the future. car key replacement is available on your registration or title, or on other documents. A locksmith or auto dealer may charge a fee for providing this information. Cost of Equipment Modern vehicles have key fobs which can lock, unlock and even start the vehicle by pressing one button. These devices are extremely convenient, but they can also be expensive to replace if they are damaged or lost. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace these keys without having to replace the device. However, there are several things to consider when it comes to determining the cost of replacing a 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. They are extremely difficult to duplicate due to being so distinct. automotive car key replacement is especially relevant for modern car keys that have transponders 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. Another aspect that could affect the cost of a replacement car key is the type of car. Keys for older cars that are basic cost less to replace. However, the most advanced cars require a special key that can cost upwards of $500 to replace. The key type and location of the vehicle can also affect the cost of a replacement car key. You could be charged more to tow your vehicle to the nearest dealership in case you lose your keys somewhere unknown. You can avoid this expense by keeping a spare key in a safe place, such as your home or the office. It is also important to understand that most times the new car key must be programmed at the dealer. This is due to the fact that most major dealers do not have mobile key programming facilities and can only do it in their workshop. It can be costly if you lose your only set of keys. It's advisable to keep a spare set on you. Cost of replacement keys Depending on the make and model of your vehicle You may need to purchase replacement keys from an auto locksmith. 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 increase the cost of replacing your car's key. A standard car key with a key fob is relatively cheap and can typically be duplicated at the local hardware store for less than $25. It's a good idea keep a backup in case you lose the original. The latest cars come with key fobs that emit an electronic signal to unlock and start the 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. The cost of a standard key fob replacement could range between $50-$150. In certain instances you can get a key fob repaired at the dealership as long as you prove ownership by proving registration or title. Dealers might charge an additional cost to cover travel expenses and the time spent in a remote location. Alternately, you can purchase an aftermarket key online, or even directly from the car manufacturer. This option is cheaper however it is more risky because the quality of these keys can't be assured. Don't attempt to hack into your car using wire hangers or force. This could trigger alarms and make it harder for locksmiths to open the door. It could also damage the lock, which could result in additional costs for a full repair or replacement. If you can find your car keys it may be worth it to have them copied by an auto expert instead of at the dealership. This can save you a lot of cash, particularly if have an extra key in your home.