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The Cost of a Replacement Car Key It can be a hassle to lose your car keys. It is important to remember that a replacement key for your car might not cost as much as you think. The cost of replacing a car key is contingent on a variety of factors, including the type of key you need as well as the location of your home. Keys that are traditional are the cheapest while the smart keys are more expensive. Cost of Parts The cost will vary depending on the type of key you need. Keys with transponder chips that are standard are priced between $50 and $110. The cost increases if you need keys equipped with a transponder chip or a push-to start vehicle that requires a second fob to start the car. The keys are costly to duplicate and replace, and harder to steal. The cost can also be affected by the year, make and type of car you own. The transponder chip in newer cars will need to be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that a replacement key will need to be programmed in order to work with the car which can cost as much as $200. Other factors that influence the cost of replacement keys include: Auto locksmiths are the least expensive option, but they don't have all the equipment needed to handle more advanced key fobs and vehicles. If you don't have the right tools, it could be difficult to copy a simple key at a hardware shop. You can also call roadside assistance for a replacement key. However, they'll tow your vehicle to a dealer and the process can take a few days. If you have an older key fob, it is recommended to purchase laser-cut all-in-one keys and program them by yourself. But secret info is becoming more and more difficult as many key fobs have security features to guard against theft. Many companies have software programs that can be used to create keys, but they are typically only available to those with service contracts or as a service offered by the dealership. If you try to get around these restrictions, it can lead to problems, since most locksmiths won't open cars that were forced or tampered with. Insurance companies will be notified if you use wire hangers to open your vehicle. Cost of Labor The type of car key you need will determine how much it will cost to replace. A standard double-edged car keys can usually be duplicated at a local hardware store for less than $10. To program and create more sophisticated keys, you will need special equipment. This could significantly increase the cost of replacing your car key. You'll also need a new key fob if your vehicle has one to unlock and start it. The cost could be anywhere from to $200, depending on your vehicle's model and make. Many newer vehicles use a transponder in the key which must be programmed and re-installed in order to function correctly. This is a cost that is hard to estimate until the key is actually lost and requires to be replaced. A specialized cutting machine is also required to create the new replacement key. They are costly and aren't readily available for those who don't have an auto repair shop. In addition, the housing of the key must be replaced as well, which can add to the overall costs of making an replacement car key. Depending on the type of car key it is possible that you will need to purchase additional replacement parts. Certain key fobs, as an instance, include features like panic or remote lock/unlock buttons that can increase the total cost. Furthermore, certain key fobs require batteries that can be costly to replace. It is best to create an additional key prior to the time you lose your original. This will reduce the anxiety that comes with losing keys and ensure that you always have a functional backup. If you do end up needing an additional key, seek out a locksmith or car dealer equipped to work with your vehicle. This is less expensive than buying a new key from the dealership and should let you avoid the high cost associated with those options. It is essential to keep an inventory of your immobilizer code and the key number if you have to reprogramme your key. This information is normally found on your registration or title and can be provided to a locksmith or auto dealer for a small fee. Cost of Equipment Modern cars have key fobs that can lock or unlock and even start the car just by pressing one button. These devices are useful, but they are expensive to replace if they become lost or damaged. Luckily, locksmiths can often save you money by replacing these types of keys without the added cost of replacing the device itself. There are a few 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. These key types are very distinct and are difficult to duplicate. This is especially relevant for modern car keys which have transponders in them that need to be programmed to the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, however it will cost more than a standard key copy. The model of car you drive can influence the cost. Older cars and basic keys are cheaper to replace, however the most advanced cars will typically require a special device to start the car, and can cost up to $500 to replace. The type of key and location of the vehicle could also influence the cost of a replacement key. You could be charged more to tow your vehicle to the nearest dealer if you lose your keys somewhere unfamiliar. You can avoid this expense by keeping an extra key in a secure location like your home or office. It is also important to understand that the majority times, a new car key is programmed by the dealer. This is because the majority of main dealers do not provide mobile key programming and can only offer this service in their workshop. This could be a significant expense in the case of losing your car's only set of keys, therefore it is better to take preventative measures and keep a spare with you at all times. Cost of replacing keys You may need to buy new keys from an automotive locksmith or a dealer, depending on the make and models of your vehicle. Before you do, check the type of key in your vehicle and whether it has a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can raise the cost of replacing your car's key. A typical car that doesn't have a keyfob is cheap 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. Most recent cars come with an ignition key that emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your vehicle. This could be a big hassle to replace in the event that it is lost, as you'll have to contact your manufacturer of your car to request a replacement key and have it paired with your vehicle. The cost of an alternative key fob ranges between $50 and $125. In certain cases you can get a key fob repaired at the dealership as long as you can show proof of ownership using registration or title. However, the dealer may charge an additional fee for the service to cover travel costs and time spent in remote locations. You can also purchase an aftermarket car key online, or directly from the manufacturer. This is a cheaper option however it's more risky as the quality of the keys can't be assured. It is not advisable to gain entry into your vehicle using wire hangers or even force, as this could cause alarms and make it difficult for a professional locksmith to unlock your car's 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 may be worth the extra expense to have them copied by an auto repair shop instead of the dealership. This can save you money, especially if there is a spare car key at home.