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How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost Cost? Losing your car keys is difficult and costly. The cost to replace keys varies based on where you are and what type of key you've made. Locksmiths can typically duplicate traditional keys for less than $10. However, a lot of newer vehicles are equipped with transponder chips which must be programmed at the dealership. Laser cut keys and switchblade keys are more expensive and require a trip to the dealership. Make and auto key replacement of Your Vehicle When you lose your car keys, it can be difficult and frustrating. If you have an extra car key and you are aware of what kind of key you lost, it may be more straightforward to duplicate. If you have an older mechanical key, for instance, a locksmith can likely make a duplicate quickly and easily. However, more sophisticated types of keys require specialized knowledge to be copied. They also need to be programmed, meaning you'll probably have visit your dealer to purchase a new one. The type of key 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 keys with an electronic transponder that must be programmed. Key fobs will typically cost more to replace if it has a switchblade key or other specialized features. Whether you choose to replace your key with the help of a professional or DIY could affect the cost of replacing your car key as well. Professionals usually cost more than DIY methods, but they can save you a lot of time and frustration. They also have the most experience regarding your specific vehicle. It's a good idea to replace keys to your car. It's recommended to learn about the factors that determine the price so that you can plan in advance. The best method to determine the cost of your car key will cost is to find a local auto locksmith. They will be able provide you with a quote based upon your specific car model and the make. They will also have the tools to complete the task. Roadside assistance is a different option, but it can be expensive. It is important to note that your insurance company may include this service in your policy. It's not a guarantee, however, that they'll provide the services you need. Dealerships It wasn't long ago that misplacing your keys to your car or losing keys was not a huge deal. You could just call roadside assistance to have your car towed to the dealership, get an alternative key, and be back on the road in no time. But as cars have become more technologically advanced, so too have their keys – and that makes them more expensive to replace. Avoiding the dealership is the best way to cut down on costs, unless you need an entirely new key remote, key fob, or transponder key. Instead, search for an independent locksmith or key replacement shop that offers OEM or third-party keys at a fraction of the cost. A lot of these shops have an online search tool that will assist you in finding an in-store. It's also worth searching for a location to cut and program standard keys, as these are usually cheaper than dealerships. They may not have your kind of key in stock, and will need to purchase it. If they do have the key you need, expect to spend between $220 and $350 for replacement and programming. Some dealers offer in-house service to replace car keys and other lockout issues, however they're still more expensive than a locksmith or independent service. This is especially true for famous car brands like Ford Chevy Toyota and Chrysler. The key fobs and chip replacements are more costly and complex for these brands. If you find yourself at the dealership, make sure to look for warranties that cover lockouts. If so, calling the dealership and mentioning the warranty may help you save money. You might be able to get a mobile locksmith sent to your location. They will unlock your vehicle on the spot and make a replacement key. This is a great solution if you aren't able to wait for a long time for the dealership to order the key and install it. Additionally, you may be able to save up to 50% by going to an independent locksmith instead of the dealership's service center. Independent Locksmiths Apart from being extremely stressful, losing your car keys can also be expensive. Independent locksmiths are the cheapest option to replace keys that have been lost. They are cheaper than dealerships and don't have as many overhead costs. If you already have a working key the cost of a new key can vary. If you already have a key, the cost will be less since it can be copied from that key without needing to be programmed. Older mechanical keys without a transponder can be copied for less than $10. On the other the other hand, modern electronic keys fobs are a lot more expensive to duplicate since they require programming to integrate with the car's system. Depending on your car's make and model the process could be as simple as entering the code or as complex as utilizing a decryptor to modify the key to ensure proper operation. It is also important to note that the location of the vehicle can impact the cost of a new car key. If you're stranded in the middle, it can be more costly to replace your car key because there's no one nearby to assist. Most people in this situation depend on roadside assistance, but it can be expensive and only cover a small portion of the cost. When calculating the cost of replacing a key, it is crucial to remember that a lot of locksmiths are independent and offer discounts to first-time clients or those who refer their services to others. They do this as they want their business to grow and rely more on word of mouth marketing rather than expensive advertising. Another tip is to always keep an extra key on hand, since it will not only spare you from the hassle of dealing with the loss of a car key and be much cheaper than trying to replace a lost key at the last minute. In addition, if you're concerned about the cost of replacing your car key you can contact your insurance provider for more information on their conditions and terms. While they usually do not cover lost car keys, some of them do as a premium add-on. Replacement Keys There are many factors that could impact the cost of a new key for your car, regardless of whether you have lost yours or require a replacement. You should first write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle. This will allow you determine where to go to get the replacement key. The VIN number is located on the side of the dashboard that is on the driver or in the owner's manual. You may need to visit a dealer in order to get a new key when yours is equipped with an electronic transponder. The chips need to be programmed in order to communicate with the vehicle to start it. This is done with special equipment, which is typically only available at dealerships and cost up to $200 for an entirely new fob and key. If your car has an old-fashioned key with no transponder chips, a locksmith will be able duplicate it at a cheaper cost. It could cost as little as $10 for one set of keys or up to $150 depending on the type. Certain keys are more difficult to duplicate and more expensive. A switchblade key, which folds into a fob, is usually more expensive than any other kind of key because it takes more work to create. Smart keys, which use a proximity sensor to unlock the car's door, are another expensive alternative. This can be difficult to reprogram, and typically will cost the most money for the replacement key. If you aren't able to afford going to a dealership to purchase your new key, you can seek out a local auto locksmith who specializes in the brand of car you drive. They are more likely to be able give you a lower estimate and are more reliable that a dealership. Some even provide mobile services that will come to your workplace or at home to cut and program keys for you.