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The Cost of a Replacement Car Key Losing your car keys could be a very frustrating experience. It's important to remember that a replacement car key may not cost as much as you think. The cost of a replacement car key is contingent on a variety of factors, including the type of key you require and the location of your home. The traditional keys are the most affordable while the smart keys are more expensive. Cost of Parts Depending on the type of key you require the price can differ. Keys that are standard, but without transponder chips are available for copying between $50 to $110. The costs increase when you require keys with a transponder chip, or a push-to-start vehicle that requires a second fob to start the car. These keys are expensive to duplicate and replace, and are more difficult to steal. The year and make of your vehicle will also affect the cost. The transponder chip in newer vehicles will have to be programmed by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that a replacement key will need to be programmed to function with the vehicle which can cost up to $200. Other factors that affect the cost of replacement keys include: Auto locksmiths are the least expensive alternative, but they don't have all the equipment required to deal with more sophisticated key fobs or vehicles. If you don't have the proper tools, it could be difficult to copy the basic key from an hardware shop. You can also contact roadside assistance to request a replacement key. However, they'll tow your vehicle to a dealer and the process may take several days. If you have an older key fob, it is best to buy laser-cut all-in-one keys and program them by yourself. This is becoming more difficult since many key fobs are equipped with security features that prevent theft. Many companies have software that can be used to make keys, but they are usually only available to those with service contracts or as a courtesy through the dealership. Most locksmiths will not open vehicles that have had their locks forced or tampered. Insurance companies will be notified when you employ wire hangers to open your vehicle. Cost of Labor The cost of replacing a car key will depend on the type you need. For less than $10, a standard double-edged key can be duplicated at a local hardware shop. However, more sophisticated keys require special machines to design and manufacture. This can significantly increase the cost of replacing your car keys. If your vehicle has the key fob to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll have to install a new key fob also. It can cost as high as $200, based on the make and model of your vehicle. Many modern vehicles have transponders inside the key, which needs to be programmed and replaced to function properly. This is an additional cost that can be difficult to estimate until the key is lost and must be replaced. To create a new replacement key, a specially-designed cutting machine is required. These are expensive and not easily accessible to those who do not have an auto repair shop. The key housing also needs to be replaced, which may increase the cost of a replacement key. Depending on the type of car key You may also have to purchase additional replacement parts. For example, some key fobs have features such as panic buttons and remote lock/unlock that can add to overall costs. Some key fobs also require batteries that can be costly to replace. It is recommended to create an extra car key before you lose your original key. This will reduce the stress that comes with losing your keys and ensure that you always have a working backup. If you do end up needing an additional key, try to find a locksmith or car dealer with the right equipment to work with your vehicle. This will be less expensive than purchasing a new one from a dealer and could enable you to avoid the high cost associated with those alternatives. automotive key replacement to keep an inventory of your immobilizer code and the key number if you need to reprogramme a key. This information is typically found on your title or registration and can be provided to a locksmith or auto dealer for a fee. Cost of Equipment Modern cars are equipped with key fobs that are able to lock, unlock, and start the car just by pressing a button. These devices are useful, but they are expensive to replace if they become lost or damaged. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace keys without having to replace the device. However, there are several factors to consider when determining the cost of a replacement car key. The Year, Make and Model of the vehicle There are numerous kinds of car keys ranging from laser-cut keys to switchblades. Keys of this kind are distinct and are difficult to duplicate. This is especially true for modern car key transponders that must be programmed into the vehicle. This procedure can be completed by a professional, however it will generally cost more than a simple key copy. Another aspect that could affect the cost of replacing a car key is the type of car. Older cars and basic keys are less expensive to replace, however the most advanced cars will typically require a special device to start the car, and can cost as much as $500 to replace. The key type and location of the vehicle could also affect the cost of a replacement car key. You could be charged more to tow your car to the nearest dealer if you lose your keys in a place unfamiliar. This expense is avoided by keeping a spare key in a secure place such as at home or work. It is also important to understand that most of the time, a new car key is programmed by the dealer. This is due to the fact that the majority of main dealers do not provide mobile key programming and only offer this service in their workshop. This could be a huge expense if you end up losing your car's only set of keys, which is why it's best to be proactive and keep a spare set with you always. Cost of Replacement Keys You might need to purchase new keys from an automotive locksmith or a dealer, depending on the model and make of your vehicle. Check the key of your car to see if it has a smart key or transponder chip. These technologies can increase the cost of your car key replacement. A traditional car that doesn't have a keyfob is cheap and can be duplicated in the local hardware store for less than $25. It's always a good idea to have 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 can be a challenge to replace in the event of a loss and you'll have to contact the manufacturer to obtain the new one and connect it with your car. The cost of an alternative key fob ranges between $50 and $125. In some cases you can replace a keyfob at a dealership if you have proof of ownership, like a registration or title. However, the dealer may still charge an extra cost to cover the cost of travel and time spent in an unreachable location. You can also purchase an aftermarket car key online, or directly from the manufacturer. This is less expensive, however it is more risky since the quality of these keys cannot be guaranteed. Do not attempt to break into your own car with the use of wire hangers or even force, as this could trigger alarms and make it difficult for a professional locksmith to open your car door. This could also damage the lock, which will result in higher costs for repairs or replacements. If you can locate your car keys, it may be worth the extra expense to get them cloned at an auto specialist instead of the dealership. This could save you a lot of money, particularly if you have a spare key at home.