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The Cost of a Replacement Car Key Losing your car keys can be a frustrating experience. It's important to keep in mind that a replacement key for your car may not cost more than you think. The cost of buying a new car key is determined by a variety of factors including the type of replacement key you require and the location of your home. The traditional keys are the cheapest while the smart keys are more expensive. Cost of the parts Depending on what kind of key you require the price will vary. Standard keys without transponder chips are priced between $50 and $110. If you need an electronic keyfob or a push-to-start vehicle that requires a second fob, the cost will rise. Those types of keys can be expensive to duplicate or replace and are more difficult for thieves to break into. The cost can also be affected by the year, make and type of car you have. The transponder chip in newer vehicles will need to be connected with an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that a replacement key will need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle which can cost as much as $200. The cost of replacing keys is also affected by: Auto locksmiths are the cheapest alternative, however they don't have the equipment required to deal with more sophisticated key fobs and vehicles. You can copy a basic key at a hardware store but the process is time-consuming and can be difficult if you do not have the proper tools. You can also call roadside assistance for a new key. However, they'll tow your vehicle to a dealer, and the process may take several days. If you own a more recent key fob, the best way to cut costs is to purchase all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. This is becoming increasingly difficult as a lot of key fobs have security features that stop theft. Many companies have software that can be used to make keys, however these are generally only available to customers who have service contracts or as a courtesy through the dealership. Most locksmiths will not allow cars to be opened if they've locked locks that have been forced or tampered. Insurance companies will be notified when you use wire hangers to unlock your car. Cost of Labor The kind of car key you need will determine how much it will cost to replace. A traditional double-edged car key can usually be duplicated at a local hardware store for less than $10. However, key replacement for car advanced keys require special machines to create and program. This can increase the cost of replacing a car key. You'll also need a new key fob if the vehicle has one to unlock and start it. It could cost up to $200, depending on the make and model 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 function properly. This is a price that is difficult to estimate prior to the moment when the key is lost and has to be replaced. A cutting machine with specialized capabilities is also required to make the new key replacement. These are expensive and not easily accessible for those who don't have an auto repair shop. In addition, the housing of the key is also required to be replaced, which can add to the overall cost of an replacement car key. Based on the type of car key you have, you may have to purchase additional replacement parts in addition to. For instance, some key fobs have features such as panic buttons and remote lock/unlock that can add to overall costs. Certain key fobs also require a battery, which can be expensive to replace. It is advisable to make a spare car key prior to the time you lose your original key. This will lessen the anxiety that comes with losing keys and ensure that you always have a functioning backup. If you do end up needing a new key, you should try to find a locksmith or a car dealer equipped to work with your vehicle. This will be less expensive than buying a new key from the dealer and will save you the high fees that come with this option. It is essential to keep an inventory of your immobilizer code and the key number in case you need to reprogramme a key. This information can be found on your registration, title or other documents. A locksmith or auto dealer will charge a fee to provide this information. Cost of Equipment Modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock, unlock, and start the car with just a button. These devices can be very convenient, however they can be costly to replace when they are lost or damaged. Locksmiths can save you money by replacing these keys without having to replace the device. There are a few factors to consider when determining the cost of a replacement car key. The year, the make and model of the vehicle. There are a variety of keys for cars, from laser-cut keys to switchblades. They are extremely difficult to duplicate because they are so distinct. This is particularly true for modern car key transponders that need to be programmed into the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, however it will cost more than a regular key copy. The model of the vehicle will influence the cost. Cars with basic keys cost less to replace. However the most modern cars require a special device that can cost upwards of $500 to replace. The key type and location of the vehicle could also influence the cost of a replacement key. If you lose your keys in a remote area, you could be charged a higher price for towing your car to the nearest dealership to have a new one programmed. This cost can be prevented by keeping an extra key in a safe location such as at home or at work. It is important to remember that keys that are new will probably require programming by the dealer. This is due to the fact that the majority of dealers do not offer mobile key programming and only do this in their workshop. It can be costly when you lose your sole set of keys. So, it's better to keep a spare set on you. Cost of Replacement Keys You may need to buy new keys from an automotive locksmith or dealer, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Before you do, check your vehicle's key type 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 typical car that doesn't have a keyfob is affordable and can be duplicated at an area hardware store for less than $25. It's a good idea keep a backup in case you lose the original. More recent cars have a key fob that emits an electronic signal to unlock and start the car. It can be a hassle to replace when it's lost in the event that you lose it, since you'll need to contact the manufacturer for a new one and pair it with your car. The cost of the replacement key fob can range from $50 to $125. In certain cases you may be able to have your key fob repaired at the dealership as provided you can prove ownership by proving registration or title. Dealers may charge an additional fee to cover travel costs and time spent in a remote location. Alternatively, you can buy an aftermarket key online, or even directly from the car manufacturer. This option may be cheaper, but it is also more risky because the quality of the keys cannot be guaranteed. You should never attempt to break into your vehicle using wire hangers or force, as this could cause alarms and make it difficult for an expert locksmith to open the door of your car. This could also cause damage to the lock, which will cause cost-intensive repairs or replacements. If you're able to locate your car keys, it may be worth the extra money to get them cloned at an auto repair shop instead of the dealership. This can help you save money, especially if you have an extra key at home.