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Factors That Influence the Cost For Replacement Car Key
Losing your car keys can be a nightmare. The cost of a replacement key will vary based on the type of vehicle and the type of key.
The first thing you must do is determine the type of key your vehicle comes with. Certain cars are equipped with advanced keys that can only be changed at a dealership.
What is the make and model of your car?
The days of being able to visit a hardware store and have duplicate car keys made for pennies are long gone. Key fobs of today are tiny electronic devices that include 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 make and model of your vehicle will ultimately determine how much you'll pay for a new car key. In general, older keys are cheaper. Keys older than that are simple metal keys that start cars when they are inserted into an ignition cylinder. They don't require any special technology to operate. They can be repaired by an automotive locksmith that is standard at an affordable price and can also be bought from a car dealership or parts store.
The latest models come with advanced security and technological features, including a smart key which locks and unlocks the doors from a distance, and a proximity sensor to start the engine. They can only be programmed using specialized equipment and are best suited to professionals who have access to this type of device which is typically only available through an auto dealer.
Laser-cut keys require special equipment to make spare. These are thicker than traditional keys and feature deep ridges and grooves for more durability and security. The cost of a key laser-cut is usually a bit more than that of a standard key for cars, but it could be significantly more expensive if it has a transponder.
Based on the make and model of your car You can expect to spend anywhere from $100-$850 for a new car key. This does not include fees, taxes, or any other costs that are associated with the purchase. Auto locksmiths are the best option for obtaining an updated key. They offer competitive prices and will usually be capable of supplying you with one in an hour or less. You can also seek the help of roadside assistance services, though they are often more expensive and not as reliable.
The type of key
Most people aren't aware that the cost of duplicate car keys will vary depending on the kind of key you own. While a classic double-edged steel car key can easily be replaced at a hardware store in your area for less than $10 Modern key fobs require professional programming to ensure they work with the specific vehicle you have. It is important to choose an locksmith that provides mobile service and has the tools and software necessary to make a new car key on the instantaneously.
In older vehicles you can typically purchase keys that are new from the dealership or even at an auto parts store, but more recent models have transponder keys that need to be programmed to function. These are more expensive to duplicate and require a particular device that is typically only available through the dealer. This makes them the most expensive kind of key to replace.
Laser-cut keys are also more difficult to replicate and are usually more expensive than traditional key kinds also. They feature distinct cuts that have to be etched in the key blank, and require a special tool which is only available in dealerships. They can add $50 or more to a new key.
Switchblade keys are also very expensive and are hard to duplicate. These are the keys that you've seen your friends playing with, and they fold into key fobs. They can be replaced for $150 or even more by a locksmith but they are much more difficult to take.
Smart keys are the most expensive kind of car replacement key keys, and they use radio frequencies to communicate with the computer in your car. These are the most secure and high-tech keys, however they are the most expensive to replace. It's not uncommon for them to run upwards of 600 dollars. You should talk to your dealer, locksmith or mechanic to determine the cost to duplicate or program different types of keys.
The location of your vehicle
The days where you could go to a hardware store and get an identical car key for less than $10 are long gone. It can cost as much as $160 to replace a key, dependent on the type of key you need. Here are the main factors that affect the cost of replacement keys:
The make and model of your vehicle are the primary factors that determine the cost of replacing a car key. Modern vehicles are more likely to have more advanced technology, so they can be more expensive to duplicate or repair than older models. Some cars require special equipment to cut the blades of the keys, cost for replacement car key which can add to the cost.
Most cars come with remote key fobs, which is an electronic device that lets you lock and unlock your vehicle from an extended distance. This can be helpful in bad weather or unsafe zones, but it's not impervious to loss or damage. The key fob can be reprogrammed by an automotive locksmith or by your local dealer in cars.
A key fob can also be linked to your phone, so that you can start your car using your smartwatch or other device. These key fobs can be the most expensive as they require software codes that are only available from the manufacturer.
The location you live in will also affect the cost of a replacement key for your car. Prices are higher in cities or rural areas and with various types of locks. This is due to the fact that some locks are more difficult to cut or open, requiring more knowledge and experience.
A locksmith or a car dealer can usually duplicate a common car key with chip at a reasonable cost. However, if you have an advanced key fob, the only option to replace it is to visit the dealership.
Most dealerships will charge a premium for their services, however they are usually more reliable than other options and can save you lots of time and money. Moreover, the price of a car key fob will be covered by your insurance policy on your vehicle, but it is essential to verify the terms of your policy before making an claim.
The locksmith or towtruck
Key replacement for cars isn't a pleasant experience, but it can be much less painful when you have the correct information. You'll have to know the type of key, the locksmith, or tow truck, who will perform the service and the cost. Make sure you are covered by your vehicle insurance or warranty.
A traditional double-edged key can be replaced for around $10 at the hardware store. You can even get an original key made at home if you have lost the original key. If you have an advanced key, such as a key fob or transponder you'll need to consult a professional automotive locksmith. They will need to have the model and year of your vehicle as well as proof of ownership (like the registration or title) and an additional key. If you have a key fob that has a switchblade, it may require a special programming. Only dealers are able to do this.
If you own an electronic key cut with lasers or one that has an embedded transponder chip the key, it will need to be programmed to the vehicle. On average it will cost about $150 to $225. It's more expensive to do it at a dealership, however you'll be able to avoid the hassle of waiting for a third-party company to complete the job.
If you try to remove a damaged or jammed key on your own can cause further damage to the lock, making the task more difficult. Call a professional if you have an extra. They will be familiar with your lock type and have backup plans in the event of any issues.
You must write down your vehicle identification number, or VIN, in case you lose keys to your car. The VIN can be found in a variety of places in the dashboard on the driver's side of your vehicle, under the engine's hood, in the door jamb or in the trunk of the car. The VIN can also be located on the papers that came along with your vehicle, or on your insurance policy.
