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The Cost of a Replacement Car Key The loss of your car keys can be a stressful experience. It is important to keep in mind that a replacement car key might not cost as much as you think. The cost of replacing a car key is contingent on a variety of aspects, including the type of key you need as well as your location. Keys that are traditional are the cheapest, while smart keys are the most expensive. Cost of Parts The cost will vary depending on the type of key you require. Standard keys without transponder chips are available for $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. Those types of keys can be expensive to duplicate or replace and are difficult for car thieves to break into. The cost will also be dependent on the year, make and type of car you own. The transponder chip in newer vehicles will have to be programmed with an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that a replacement key will need to be programmed in order to work with the car and could cost as much as $200. The cost of replacing keys is also affected by Auto locksmiths may be the most expensive however, they don't have the tools needed to deal with advanced key fobs or vehicles. If you don't have the proper tools, it can be difficult to copy an ordinary key at a hardware shop. You can also rely on roadside assistance to help obtain a new key, but they will likely tow your car to a dealership 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 purchase all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. This is becoming more difficult, as many key fobs come with security features that can prevent theft. Many companies offer software to create keys. However, they are only an option for customers with service contracts. If you try to get around these restrictions, it could cause problems, as most locksmiths will not allow cars to be opened if they were forced or tampered with. Insurance companies will be notified in the event that you make use of wire hangers to open your car. Cost of Labor The kind of car key you need will determine how much it will cost to replace. For less than $10, a traditional double-edged key can be duplicated at the local hardware store. To auto key replacement cost and make more advanced keys, you'll need special equipment. This can significantly increase the cost of replacing a car key. You'll also need a brand new key fob if your vehicle has one to unlock it and start it. It could cost up to $200, based on the model and make of your vehicle. In addition, many modern vehicles also include a transponder inside the key that needs to be replaced and programmed to work properly. This is an additional cost that is difficult to estimate until the key is actually lost and must be replaced. A cutting machine that is specialized is also required to make the new key replacement. They are costly and aren't readily available for those who don't have a mechanic shop. In addition, the housing of the key is also required to be replaced and this can increase the overall cost of the replacement key for your car. Based on the type of car key, you may have to purchase other replacement parts as well. Certain key fobs, as an instance, come with features such as panic or remote lock/unlock buttons that can increase the total cost. Some key fobs also require a battery that can be costly to replace. It is advisable to create a spare key before you lose your primary. This will lessen the stress that comes with losing keys and ensure that you always have a working backup. If you do end up needing an additional key, you should seek out an auto dealer or locksmith with the right equipment to work with your vehicle. This will be cheaper than purchasing a new one from a dealership and will enable you to avoid some of the high cost associated with those options. If you have keys that require programming, it's important to keep a record of your immobilizer code, or the key number in case you need to get it reprogrammed in the future. This information is typically found on your registration or title and is available to a locksmith or auto dealer for a small fee. Cost of Equipment Modern cars have key fobs that lock, unlock, and start the vehicle by pressing the button. These devices are extremely convenient, but they can also be expensive to replace if lost or broken. However, locksmiths are able to save you money by replacing these types of keys, without the cost of replacing the device itself. There are a few aspects to take into consideration when determining the cost of a replacement car key. The year, the make and model of the vehicle There are many types of keys for cars, from laser-cut keys to switchblades. These keys are difficult to duplicate because they are so distinct. This is particularly the case for modern car keys, with transponders that require programming to the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, however it will cost more than a standard key copy. The type of vehicle can affect the price. Basic keys and older cars are less expensive to replace, however the most advanced cars will generally require a specific device to start the car, which can cost up to $500 to replace. The type of key as well as the location of the car can influence the cost of a new key. It could cost you more to tow your car to the nearest dealership if you lose your keys in an area in a foreign location. This expense can be avoided by keeping an extra key in a safe place such as at home or work. It is also important to understand that the majority times the new car key must be programmed at the dealer. This is because most main dealers don't offer mobile key programming facilities and can only do it in their workshop. This could be a huge expense if you end up losing your car's only set of keys, so it is recommended to be proactive and carry a spare with you always. Cost of replacement keys You might need to purchase replacement keys from an auto locksmith or a dealer depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Before you do, check the type of key in your vehicle and if it comes with a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can increase the cost of replacing your car's keys. A classic car that doesn't have a keyfob is affordable and can be duplicated at an area hardware store for less than $25. It's best to have a spare in the event that you lose your original. The majority of new cars have an ignition key that emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your vehicle. It can be a hassle to replace in the event of a loss in the event that you lose it, since you'll need to contact the manufacturer to get the new one and connect it with your car. The cost of a typical replacement key fob can range from $50 to $150. In certain cases, you can have a key fob repaired at the dealership as provided you can prove ownership with proof of registration or title. However, the dealer might still charge an extra cost to cover travel expenses and time spent in remote locations. You can also purchase an aftermarket key online or even directly from the manufacturer. This may be less expensive however it's more risky because the quality of the keys can't be assured. Do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle using wire hangers or even force, as this could cause alarms and make it difficult for an expert locksmith to open your car door. This could also damage the lock, which would cause cost-intensive repairs or replacements. If you're able to locate your car keys, it might be worth the extra money to get them cloned at an auto expert instead of the dealership. This can save you lots of cash, particularly if have an extra key in your home.