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The Cost of a Replacement Car Key It can be frustrating to lose your car keys. It's important to realize that a replacement key might not be as expensive as you think. The cost of purchasing a new car key is determined by various 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 that you need. Keys with transponder chips that are standard are priced between $50 and $110. The cost increases when you require a key fob with a transponder chip, or a vehicle with a push-to-start feature that requires a second fob to activate the car. These keys are expensive to duplicate and replace, and are more difficult to steal. The cost can also be dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle you own. The transponder chip on newer cars will need to be programmed with an auto locksmith or dealer. replacement car fob key means that keys that are spare will need to be programmed with the car. This can add up to $200. Other factors that impact the cost of replacement keys are: Auto locksmiths are often the most affordable, but they lack the tools needed to deal with advanced key fobs or vehicles. You can copy a basic key at a hardware store but the process is time-consuming and may be a challenge in the absence of the proper tools. You can also contact roadside assistance to request a replacement key. However, they will transport your vehicle to a dealer, and the process can take a few days. If you have an old key fob, it's best to buy laser-cut all-in-one keys and program them by yourself. However, this is becoming more difficult since key fobs are often equipped with security features to prevent theft. Many companies offer software to create keys. However, these are only available as a service to customers who have service contracts. Locksmiths aren't likely to open vehicles that have locked locks that have been forced or tampered. Insurance providers will be alerted if you use wire hangers to open your car. Cost of Labor The cost of replacing a car key will be contingent on the type you need. A standard double-edged car keys is usually duplicated at a local hardware store for less than $10. However, more sophisticated keys require special machines to create and program. This can dramatically increase the cost of replacing your car keys. If your car uses an ignition key to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll need install a new key fob as well. It can cost as high as $200, depending on the model and brand of your vehicle. Furthermore, many of the newer models also have a transponder chip inside the key that needs to be replaced and programmed to work properly. This is a price that is difficult to estimate prior to the time that the key is lost and needs to be replaced. A specialized cutting machine is also required to make the new replacement key. They are costly and aren't readily available to those who do not have an auto repair shop. In addition, the housing of the key must be replaced as well which could add to the overall costs of making the replacement key for your car. Depending on the car key type, you may also need to purchase additional replacement parts. For instance, certain key fobs have features such as panic and remote lock/unlock buttons that can add to overall costs. Certain key fobs also need a battery, which can be expensive to replace. It is advisable to create an extra key before you lose the original. This will ease the stress that comes with losing your keys and ensure that you always have a functioning backup. If you need a replacement car key, find a dealer or locksmith that has the right equipment to work on your vehicle. This will be less expensive than buying a new key from a dealer and could let you save some of the costly cost associated with those options. If you own keys that require programming, it's essential to keep a record of the immobilizer code, or the key number in case you need to have it reprogrammed later on. This information can be found on your registration or title, or on other documents. A locksmith or auto dealer will charge a fee to supply this information. Cost of Equipment Modern cars have key fobs that can lock or unlock and even start the car just by pressing the button. These devices can be extremely convenient, however they can be costly to replace if they become lost or damaged. However, locksmiths are able to save you money by replacing these kinds of keys without the expense of replacing the device itself. There are several factors to take into account when determining the price of the replacement of a car key. The Year, Make and Model of the vehicle There are numerous kinds of car keys, ranging from laser-cut keys to switchblades. These keys are difficult to duplicate since they are so distinct. This is especially true for modern car keys, which have transponders in them that require programming to the vehicle. This procedure can be completed by a specialist, but it is generally more expensive than a simple copy of the key. The model of car you drive can affect the price. Older cars and basic keys are cheaper to replace, but the most sophisticated cars will typically require a special device to start the car, which could cost as much as $500 to replace. The type of key as well as the location of the car can influence the cost of a new key. If you lose your keys in an unfamiliar area, you may be charged more for towing your car to the nearest dealership to get a new key programmed. You can avoid this expense by keeping a spare key in a safe place like your home or the office. It is important to remember that keys that are new will probably require programming by the dealer. This is because the majority of dealers do not provide mobile key programming and only offer this service in their workshop. It can be expensive if you lose your only set of keys. It's advisable to keep a spare set of keys with you. Cost of Key Replacement Based on the brand and model of your car, you may need to purchase replacement keys from a dealer or an automotive locksmith. Check the key of your car to determine if it's an electronic transponder or smart key chip. 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 an hardware store in your area for less than $25. It is recommended to have another spare in case you lose your original. Modern cars have a key fob that emits an electronic signal to unlock and start the vehicle. This could be a big problem to replace in the event that it is lost, as you will have to contact the manufacturer of your car to request a replacement key and then pair it with your vehicle. The cost of a typical key fob replacement can vary between $50 and $150. In certain cases you may be able to have your key fob replaced at the dealership so long as you can show proof of ownership using registration or title. However, the dealer could charge an additional cost to cover the cost of travel and time spent in remote locations. Alternately, you can purchase an aftermarket key online or even directly from the car manufacturer. This is a cheaper option however it's more risky due to the fact that the quality of the keys cannot be guaranteed. Never try to get into your car with wire hangers or force. This could set off alarms and make it harder for a locksmith to unlock the door. It could also damage the lock, which could result in additional costs for a full repair or replacement. If you're able to locate your car keys, it might be worth the extra cost to get them cloned at an auto expert instead of the dealership. This could help you save money, especially if you have a spare key at home.