How Much Does Replacing Car Keys Cost?
The cost of replacing lost car keys varies widely dependent on the type of key used and the car you drive. The more secure your car key is, the more expensive the cost of replacement.
The most important factor in determining the cost of replacing your car keys is the technology contained in your key. The key’s technology will determine the price of the new key fob.
Mechanical Keys
Fortunately, mechanical keys are still readily available, and they tend to be the least expensive type of car key to replace. They can typically be duplicated by a locksmith for less than $10. However, these old-fashioned keys made of metal are a remnant of the past and may not work on modern vehicles.
Modern vehicles usually come with high-tech transponder chips on their key fobs as well as remote transmitters that need to be linked to the vehicle. Keys can cost up to $200 to replace, including cutting and programming services. Key fobs that include other features like proximity sensors or push-to start can cost more.
The year and make of the car are among the other factors that determine how much a new car key will cost. Certain key fobs require special tools or Replacing Car Keys Cost a key code program, which can add to the overall price of the key. Certain car makers also have added security features which can make their keyfobs more costly.
Certain keys are only compatible to certain lock systems. If you try to use a key that’s not compatible with a lock, it could cause damage to the lock and key. This could result in costly repairs later on. It’s best to call locksmiths to take out any broken or stuck keys.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain a small chip that is located in the head of the key. When the key is inserted into the ignition and a signal is transmitted to a receiver in the car key replacement cost to verify that it’s a valid key. This is among the most secure varieties of car keys, as the car will not start in the event that the correct key is not used. This kind of key may cost more to replace, however it could be worth the investment for security if it is a priority for you.
The cost of a new ignition key can be influenced by the year, make, and model of your car. Older cars generally use simple mechanical keys, that are fairly inexpensive to replace car key cost. The keys for modern vehicles, on the contrary tend to be more sophisticated and come with transponder chip technology. They must be paired with an locksmith or auto dealer.
Many modern push-to-start cars have remote key fobs for keys, which can be expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. They are connected to the car, so only a key programmed correctly can turn it on. This is a great security feature, but it doesn’t make vehicles completely safe from criminals who can still hot wire them. It is advisable to have a spare car key if you own a push-to start vehicle to avoid the cost of replacing one that is damaged or lost.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own keys that have been laser-cut that is also referred to as a sidewinder key, then you can identify it by the wider shank that doesn’t have conventional grooves cut into it. It’s a more secure kind of car key replacement cost key that makes it much more difficult for thieves to duplicate your car key.
This type of key has a security chip built inside that stops the ignition from starting your car without the correct code. This is also why the cost of replacing this type of key is more expensive than a standard one.
The cost of a laser-cut keys for your vehicle will depend on its make and model. This is due to the fact that each car manufacturer has their own unique code series that the machine needs to be programmed for. A locksmith can easily program the keys to fit your particular vehicle. It’s also around 20% less than buying a car from a dealership.
Certain cars come with a switchblade-style car key replacement cost key, replacing car Keys cost which locks and unlocks by pressing a button on a fob. These keys are difficult to duplicate and expensive to replace. You’ll have to go to an authorized dealer to get a new set of keys.
Smart Keys Keys
It’s amazing that car keys disappear under sofa cushions or in pockets on coats. In the past, it was simple and inexpensive to make duplicate keys at your local box or hardware store. However, advances in the field of car key fob technology have made it much more difficult for thieves to steal vehicles using the existing key to start the engine. As a result, it’s more expensive to replace a lost key or remote fob than in the past.
The cost will vary depending on the type of key you have and the number of keys you’ve lost. The cost to copy a basic car key fob without transponder will range between $10 and $20 at an auto shop or locksmith who has the registration or title of the vehicle.
The most expensive replacement for keys is a smart one that comes with a remote keyfob with a computer chip embedded in. This allows you to lock or unlock your vehicle remotely. This could cost up to $500 if you must get a new key programmed by a locksmith or dealer equipped with special equipment. It’s important to remember that this is also the type of key that may be covered by your car insurance, roadside assistance or additional add-ons to your car’s purchase warranty.
