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The Cost of a Replacement Car Key It can be a hassle to lose your car keys. But it's important to remember that a replacement key may not be as expensive as you think. The cost of purchasing a new car key is determined by a variety of aspects, including the kind of replacement key you need and your location. Keys that are traditional are the most affordable and the smart keys are more expensive. Cost of the parts Based on the type of key you require the price will vary. Keys that are standard and do not have transponder chips are available for copying between $50 to $110. The costs increase when you require keys equipped with a transponder chip or a push-to start vehicle that requires a second fob to turn on the car. Keys with transponder chips are expensive to duplicate and replace, and they are also more difficult to steal. The cost is also dependent on the year, make and model of car you own. Newer cars may have transponder chips which need to be linked to the car by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that keys that are spare will need to be programmed to work with the car. This could cost up to $200. The cost of replacement keys can also be affected by: Auto locksmiths are the least expensive option, but they don't have the equipment needed to handle more sophisticated key fobs and vehicles. If you don't have the right tools, it may be difficult to copy a simple key at the hardware store. You can also use roadside assistance to assist you find a replacement key however, they'll likely transport your vehicle to a dealership, and the process could take days to complete. If you own a newer key fob, the best way to cut costs is to purchase all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. But this is becoming more difficult since the majority of key fobs come with security features to guard against theft. Many companies have software programs that can be used to create keys, but these are usually only available to customers with service contracts or as a service offered by the dealership. If you try to get around these restrictions, it could cause problems, since most locksmiths won't open vehicles that were forced or tampered with. If you are able to use wire hangers or some other method of opening the car, that will also signal red flags to insurance providers. Cost of Labor The kind of car key you need will determine how much it will cost to replace. For less than $10, a conventional double-edged key can be duplicated in the local hardware store. To program and make more sophisticated keys, you'll need special machines. This could significantly increase the cost of replacing your car key. You'll also require a new key fob in case your car uses one to unlock and start it. The cost can be up to $200 depending on the vehicle's make and model. In addition, many modern vehicles also include a transponder in the key that has to be replaced and programmed in order to work properly. This is an additional expense that is difficult to estimate until the key actually is lost and needs to be replaced. A specialized cutting machine is also required to create the new key replacement. These are expensive and not easily accessible to people who do not have an auto mechanic shop. Additionally, the key's housing needs to be replaced too and this can increase the overall costs of making an replacement car key. Depending on the car key type it is possible that you will need to purchase other replacement parts. Certain key fobs, for instance, include features like remote lock/unlock or panic buttons, which can increase the total cost. Furthermore, certain key fobs require batteries that can be quite pricey to replace. It is best to create an extra key before you lose your primary. This will help you avoid the anxiety of losing your keys and also ensure that you have a backup. If you do end up needing a new key, look for a locksmith or car dealer equipped to work with your car. This is less expensive than purchasing a new key from a dealer, and you will avoid the fees that are high with this method. If you own an ignition key that requires programming, it's important to keep a record of your immobilizer code or the key number in case you have to have it reprogrammed later on. This information is usually located on your registration or title and can be provided to a locksmith or auto dealer for a fee. Cost of Equipment Modern cars come with key fobs that can lock, unlock and even start the vehicle by simply pressing a button. These devices can be very useful, but they are expensive to replace when they are lost or damaged. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace keys without needing to replace the device. However, there are several things to consider when determining the cost of a replacement car key. The year, make & model of the vehicle There are a variety of car keys, from simple laser cut keys to switchblade keys. These keys are distinct and are difficult to duplicate. This is particularly true for modern car keys which have transponders in them that require programming to the vehicle. This procedure can be completed by a professional, however it will generally cost more than a copy of the keys. Another factor that can impact the cost of a replacement car key is the type of car. Cars with basic keys cost less to replace. However, the most advanced cars require a special key that can cost upwards of $500 to replace. The key type and location of the vehicle may affect the cost of a replacement car key. You could be charged more to tow your vehicle to the nearest dealership in case you lose your keys somewhere in a foreign location. This expense is avoided by keeping a spare key in a secure place like at home or work. It is also important to understand that most of the time the new car key has to be programmed by a dealer. This is because most main dealers don't offer mobile key programming services and can only do it in their workshop. It could be costly in the event that you lose your primary set of keys. It's advisable to keep a spare set on you. Cost of replacement keys You may need to buy replacement keys from an automotive locksmith or a dealer depending on the make and models of your vehicle. Check the key of your car to determine if it's a smart key or transponder chip. These technologies can increase the cost of replacing your car's key. A typical car that does not have a keyfob can be inexpensive and can be duplicated in an area hardware store for less than $25. It is recommended to keep a spare in case you lose your original. The latest cars come with 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 and you'll have to contact the manufacturer to obtain a new one and pair it with your car. The cost of the replacement key fob can range from $50 to $125. In certain instances, you can replace a keyfob at a dealership if you have proof of ownership, like the registration or title. Dealers may charge an additional fee to cover travel costs and the time spent in remote locations. You can also purchase an aftermarket car key online, or directly from the manufacturer. This may be less expensive but it's more risky because the quality of the keys can't be assured. Never try to break into auto car key replacement using wire hangers or force. This could trigger alarms and make it more difficult for a locksmith to unlock the door. This could also cause damage to the lock, which will result in more expensive repairs or replacements. If you're able to locate your car keys, it may be worth the extra cost to get them cloned at an auto expert instead of the dealership. This could save you money, particularly if there is an extra car key at home.