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The Cost of a Replacement Car Key It can be a hassle to lose your car keys. It's important to keep in mind that a replacement key may not cost as much as you think. The cost of buying a new car key is determined by a variety of aspects, including the kind of replacement key you require and the location of your home. Keys made of traditional design are the cheapest while smart keys are the most costly. Cost of the parts The price will vary based on the type of key you need. Keys that are standard and do not have transponder chips are priced from $50 to $110. The costs increase for those who require an ignition key with a transponder chip, or a vehicle with a push-to-start feature which requires an additional fob to turn on the car. Keys with transponder chips are expensive to duplicate and replace, and harder to steal. The cost is also dependent on the year, make and model of vehicle you own. The transponder chip on newer vehicles will need to be paired with an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that a replacement key will need to be programmed to work with the car, which could cost up to $200. The cost of replacing keys is also affected by: Auto locksmiths are the most affordable alternative, but they don't have the equipment required to deal with more sophisticated key fobs or vehicles. You can try to copy a basic key in a hardware shop, but the process is time-consuming and may be a challenge in the absence of the appropriate tools. You can also call roadside assistance for a replacement key. However, they'll tow your vehicle to a dealer, and the process may take several days. If you have an old key fob, it is recommended to purchase laser-cut all-in-one keys and program them yourself. This is becoming more difficult as a lot of key fobs have security features that stop theft. Many companies offer software programs to make keys. However, these are only an option to customers who have service contracts. Most locksmiths will not allow cars to be opened if they've had their locks forced or altered. If you're able use wire hangers or another method to open the vehicle it will raise red flags for insurance companies. Cost of Labor The cost of replacing a car key will be contingent on the type you need. A standard double-edged car key can usually be duplicated at your local hardware store for less than $10. To program and make more sophisticated keys, you'll require special equipment. This can increase the cost of replacing the car key. You'll also need a new key fob if your car uses one to unlock and start it. The cost could be anywhere from to $200 based on the make and model. A lot of newer cars have transponders inside the key, which needs to be programmed and replaced to function correctly. This is a cost that is hard to estimate prior to the moment when the key is lost and needs to be replaced. A specialized cutting machine is also required to create the new replacement key. They are expensive and aren't readily available for those who don't have a mechanic shop. In addition, the housing of the key is also required to be replaced which could add to the overall costs of making the replacement key for your car. Depending on the car key type it is possible that you will need to purchase additional replacement parts. For instance, certain key fobs come with features like remote lock/unlock and panic buttons which can increase the total cost. Furthermore, certain key fobs require a battery which can be expensive to replace. It is best to create an additional key prior to the time you lose the original. This will ease the stress that comes with losing keys and ensure that you always have a functional backup. If you do need an additional key, seek out a locksmith or car dealer equipped to work with your vehicle. This will be less expensive than getting a new one from the dealership and should allow you to avoid the high costs associated with these options. If you own keys that require programming, you must keep a record of the immobilizer code or the key number in case you need to have it reprogrammed later on. This information is available on your registration and title or any other document. A locksmith or auto dealer will charge a fee to supply this information. Cost of Equipment Modern automobiles have key fobs that lock, unlock and even start the vehicle by simply pressing the button. These devices can be extremely convenient, however they can be costly to replace when they're lost or damaged. Fortunately, locksmiths can save you money by replacing these kinds of keys without the cost of replacing the device itself. There are replacement key fobs for cars to consider when the cost of replacing a car key. The year, make and model of the vehicle. There are a variety of car keys ranging from laser-cut keys to switchblades. These keys are distinct and are difficult to duplicate. This is particularly the case for modern car keys transponders, which must be programmed into the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a specialist, but it is generally more expensive than a simple copy of the key. Another factor that can affect the cost of a replacement car key is the model of car. Basic keys and older cars are more affordable 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 type of key and the location of the car can influence the cost of a new car key. If you lose your keys in an unfamiliar location, you could be charged a higher price for towing your car to the nearest dealership to get a new key programmed. This cost is reduced by keeping a spare key in a safe location like at home or work. It is also important to understand that most times, a new car key has to be programmed by a dealer. This is because the majority of major dealers do not provide mobile key programming and can only do this in their workshop. This could be a significant cost in the event of losing your only set of car keys, therefore it is better to be proactive and keep a spare with you always. Cost of Replacement Keys You may have to purchase replacement keys from an automotive locksmith or a dealer, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Examine the key in your vehicle to see if it has an electronic transponder or smart key chip. These technologies can increase the cost of your car key replacement. A traditional car key without a key fob is relatively cheap and can typically be duplicated at the local hardware store for less than $25. It is recommended to keep another spare in the event that 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 when it's lost in the event that you lose it, since you'll need to contact the manufacturer to obtain a new one and pair it with your car. The cost of the replacement key fob can range between $50 and $125. In certain cases you can get a key fob replaced at the dealership so long as you can prove ownership with proof of registration or title. However, the dealer may charge an additional cost to cover travel expenses and time spent in a remote location. You can also purchase an aftermarket car key online, or directly from the manufacturer. This is less expensive, but may be a bit more risky as the quality of these keys can't be assured. Never try to hack into your car using wire hangers or force. This could raise alarms and make it more difficult for locksmiths to open the door. This could also cause damage to the lock, which will lead to more expensive repairs or replacements. If you can locate the car keys, it might be worth it to have them cloned by an auto technician rather than the dealership. This could help you save money, particularly if you have a spare key at home.