If there’s one thing we have in common with our car keys is that, in one way or the other, you will have to replace it or misplace it, and in such a situation, you will be required to forge another one. And for that reason, we have compiled some of the basic and detailed information on how much you should spend on replacing or buying a new key. So, here are some of the car keys and the price you will pay for a replacement.
Fobs and Basic Keys
The cost of replacing or forging a remote transmitter fob ranges from $60 to $120 depending on the model, automaker, and key design complexity. All basic keys need to be reprogrammed so that they can fit or match with your transmitter, so it would be wise always to pick a dealership that considers the programming part as after-sale service.
Transponder keys
A Transponder is either a basic forb or just a laser cutter key; the only difference between the transponder and the basic key is that the transponder has a chip that must be reprogrammed before it is assigned to any car. All locksmiths or dealerships have machines and equipment to program the chip. In our research on how much will it cost you to replace or forge a new transponder, we found that the price is tied to the model of the car.
A basic transponder key for a Ford Ranger or F-150 most dealers quoted $200 for a new key and an additional $80 for the chip. But if you visit a locksmith, you can get the same for as low as $50 or even less depending on your bargaining. For a Toyota Salon car, Nissan, hallux and some Mercedes, the cost of replacing ranged from $100 to $200.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser keys have in-built transponder chips, and for this type of key, the replacement is done on the chip at certified locksmiths outlets. However, if you are a member of Associated Locksmith of America or the ALOA, you can search online on their website and get some preferred and certified options. Replacing this particular model will cost you something from $200 to $350. Unlike other models, this requires a certified locksmith since its transmission is a bit complex.
Switchblade keys
Switchblade keys incorporate a fold into the basic keys when they are not in use, and they always pop out with the button press. Some even include some laser cut, and one thing about this model is that each component can be bought differently. If for some incident, your car key is lost or damaged or it doesn’t pop out when you press the open button, then you can buy the shank separately for $70 to $ 90. However, in the most likely scenario of losing your key, here you will need a new key, and it will cost you $300 and $400 once you factor out the programming of both aspects in your car keys.
FAQs About
How much does it cost me to replace my car key?
The price to replace or make a new car key vary from one car model to the other and the type of key you are using. You are expected to spend as low as $ 50 for basic keys and over $600 for advanced tech keys on a random comparison.
Where do I Replace my car Keys?
You can replace your car keys with all certified locksmiths or visit your local dealership for more ideas on better places to replace your keys.
Conclusion
Our guide is based on 2021 replacement rates, and these rates might vary depending on your neighborhood and the model of the car you are driving.