5 Car Key Replacement Lessons Learned From The Professionals
How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost?
Losing your car keys can be costly and frustrating. The cost to replace keys varies based on where you are and what kind of key you have made.
Locksmiths can typically duplicate traditional keys for less than $10. However, the majority of modern vehicles use transponder chip technology that need to be programmed by the dealership. Keys cut with lasers and switchblade keys are more expensive and require a trip to the dealership.
Make and Model of Your Vehicle
The loss of your car keys can be frustrating and stressful. If you have an extra car key and know the type of key you lost, it may be simpler to duplicate. If you have an older mechanical key for instance, a locksmith can likely duplicate it quickly and easily. However, more advanced types of keys require specialized knowledge to be copied. They also have to be programmed, meaning you'll probably have to go to your dealership to get a new one.
The type of key that is lost will also determine the cost of replacing it. The cost of replacing a conventional mechanical key that is put into the ignition cylinder is lower than that of the key fob which has a transponder which must be programmed. It will cost more to replace the key fob if it's equipped with a switchblade or special features.
If you decide to replace your key with the assistance of a professional or do it yourself may have an impact on your car key replacement costs as well. Professionals typically cost more than DIY methods however, they can save you time and frustration. They'll also have the best experience with your particular type of vehicle.
While having a car key replaced is costly but it's worth it in the long in the long. It's a good idea to learn about the factors that affect the cost to be able to plan your budget according to your budget.
Find a local auto-locksmith to obtain an estimate of the cost of your car key. They will be able to give you an estimate based upon the model and make of your car. They will have the equipment to do a good job. Roadside assistance is a different option however it is costly. It's worth noting that your insurance company may offer this service as part of your policy. However it's not a guarantee that they'll provide the services you need.
Dealerships
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing your keys to your car or loosing them was not a big problem. You could contact roadside assistance to get your car towed to the dealership, get a new key, and get back on the road in a matter of minutes. As cars advanced in technology, so too have their keys. This makes them more expensive to replace.
The most efficient way to save money is to avoid going to the dealership unless you need a new key fob, key remote car key replacement or transponder chip keys. Instead, search for an independent locksmith or key replacement shop that offers OEM or third-party keys for less than the price. Many of these shops offer an online search tool that can help you locate a store close to you.
It is also advisable to find a place that can cut and program a standard key, since they're generally cheaper than a dealership. They may not have the kind of key in stock and will have to order it. If they have the key, you should expect to be charged between $200 and $350.
Some dealers offer in-house service for replacing car keys and other lockout problems, but they're still more expensive than a locksmith or an independent service. This is especially applicable to the most popular automobile brands like Ford, Chevy, Toyota and Chrysler. Key fobs and chip replacements are more costly and complex for these manufacturers.
If you end up at a dealer, make sure to inquire whether there are any warranties that cover lockouts. If they do, then calling the dealership and mentioning the warranty could help reduce your bill. You may be able to have a mobile locksmith sent to your location who can unlock the vehicle on the spot and make a replacement car key fobs key. This is a great option if you aren't able to wait for days for the dealership to order your key and then install it. You can cut costs by up to half by hiring an independent locksmith instead of the dealership service center.
Independent Locksmiths
In addition to being extremely stressful, losing your car key fobs replacement keys could be expensive. The most affordable option to replace keys that have been lost is to look for an independent locksmith as they are usually cheaper than going to a dealership and do not have the same overhead expenses.
If you already have a working key, the cost of a new key will vary. If you have it, it will cost much lower since the copy can be made from the key that is currently in use and doesn't require programming. Keys that were mechanical before the transponder can be copied for less than $10.
Modern electronic keys, on the other hand, are more expensive to duplicate because they must be programmed to be compatible with your vehicle's system. Based on the car's make and model the process could be as simple as typing the code, or as complicated as utilizing a decryptor to reprogram the key for proper operation.
It is also important to remember that the location of the vehicle may impact the cost of a new car key. If you're stuck in the middle of nowhere, getting your car key replaced can be more costly as there isn't anyone close to help with the procedure. Most people in this situation depend on assistance from the roadside however it can be expensive and only cover a small portion of the cost.
One thing that can be useful to keep in mind when calculating your replacement key cost is that many locksmiths who are independent will offer discounts on their services to first-time customers or those who recommend them to others. This is due to the fact that they are looking to expand their business and rely on word-of-mouth marketing as opposed to costly advertisements.
A final suggestion to always keep a spare car key. This will save you the burden of replacing a key that has been lost, and it is less expensive than attempting to do it at the last moment. If you're concerned about the cost of replacing your car key, call your insurance company and request more information. Some insurance companies offer the option of a fee to replace lost keys.
Key Replacement
There are a variety of aspects that could affect the cost of the new key for your vehicle, whether you've lost yours or require a replacement. You should first write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle. This will allow you decide where to go to find an alternative key. The VIN number is on the dashboard of the driver or in the owner's manual.
You may have to visit a dealer in order to obtain a new key in the event that yours has an electronic transponder. These chips need to be programmed to work in order to communicate with the vehicle to allow it to start. This is done with special machines, which are usually only available at dealerships and cost as much as $200 for an entirely new key and fob.
If your car replacement key cost is equipped with traditional keys that do not have transponder chips You should be able to find a locksmith that can duplicate it at a lesser cost. Depending on the kind of key, this could be as low as $10 or even $150 for a whole set of replacement keys.
Other kinds of keys are more difficult to replicate and could be more expensive. A switchblade key, which folds into fobs, is generally more expensive than any other kind of key because it requires more effort to produce. Another expensive option is a smart key, which utilizes a proximity sensor to unlock the car door. This can be difficult to reprogram, and typically will cost you the most for a replacement key.
You can locate an auto-locksmith near me car key replacement local to you who is familiar with the brand that you drive if need to visit the dealership. They will likely be able to give you a cheaper estimate and will be more reliable than a dealership would be. Some even offer mobile service that will come to your workplace or at home to cut and program your keys for you.