How Much Is A Car Key Replacement Cost

Losing your car key is an immeasurable inconvenience and is undoubtedly annoying. Before the 1990s, lost car key replacement wasn’t a big deal. You could get a key made at any hardware store, locksmith, or dealership. But that ease of making a new replacement also made it easy for a thief to steal your car.

Today advances in key fob technology make it more difficult to steal cars, but at the cost — literally — of car key replacement. Here we’ll look at different methods and costs to replace your key. The prices quoted here are for “Southern California areas“. Parts and labor costs in your region may vary.

How Much Cost Of A Car Key Replacement

Car key replacement costs can vary widely from $90 to $5000+ depending on many factors. The make & model of the car, type of key (traditional, remote, or smart key), and need for programming are all factors influencing cost. We recommend seeking an estimate from a reputable local automotive locksmith or dealership for the most accurate pricing.

Types Of Car Keys

There are multiple types of car keys for replacement ranging from $50 to $500. The final sum depends on the key type because each has a different replacement procedure. Generally, they can be divided into the following categories: 

1. Basic Keys And Fobs

The electronic key fob, also called a remote, is a crucial part of the key set for many modern cars. If you ever need to replace this key fob, it might cost you between $50 to $100 or more, depending on your car’s make and how complex the design is. Remember, all key fobs have to be programmed, and while some dealerships might do it for free, others may charge you for about half an hour to an hour of labor.

But here’s a money-saving tip: you can often program the key fob yourself by following specific instructions in your car’s owner’s manual or searching online. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, you can also buy aftermarket key fob remotes online or from a locksmith. Keep in mind that the quality may vary, but they’re a budget-friendly alternative to consider.

2. Transponder Keys

Since the late ’90s, car keys started having a tiny chip, called a transponder, in the plastic head. This chip talks to the car’s ignition, and if it doesn’t hear the right signal, your car won’t start. Transponder keys need programming before they work, and dealerships can do this – some might do it for free, while others may charge up to an hour of labor. Auto locksmiths usually have the tools too.

For example, we asked about a basic transponder key for an older Ford F-150, and the dealer said it was $160 for the key and an extra $75 for the fob. If your key and fob are one unit, it can be pricier.

Another way to save is by ordering a basic key without the transmitter, which won’t start the engine but can unlock the car. If you tend to lose keys, making a spare and programming it yourself might save you money.

In case, you don’t know where to get the best replacement car key and how to program it, you need to contact us. Our experienced locksmith will surely solve your problem.

3. Laser-Cut Keys

Laser-cut keys are easy to spot—they’re a bit thicker with a unique pattern on the shank, making them stand out from basic keys. These keys are often called “sidewinder” keys because of their distinct design. But getting a replacement is a bit trickier; the machines that make these keys are pricier, so you won’t find them everywhere.

Laser-cut keys also come with built-in transponder chips that need programming. Usually, this has to be done at the dealership or by a certified locksmith. If you have an all-in-one laser-cut key, be ready for a higher cost, ranging from $150 to $250, including labor.

4. Switchblade Keys

Switchblade keys are cool—they fold into the key fob and pop out when you press a button. They can come in a basic or laser-cut style. The good thing is, if your key breaks, you can buy the folding part for about $60-$80.

In case, you lose the whole thing, be prepared to spend more. Getting a replacement switchblade key can cost you between $200 and $300, including programming both the key and the fob.

5. Keyless Entry Remote

A keyless entry remote, also known as a “smart key,” is not your regular car key. It’s a special fob that goes into the dash or stays in your pocket. You can start the car by just pressing a button. These smart keys use rolling security codes to keep your car safe, making it hard for thieves to hack them. Mercedes-Benz was one of the first to use this tech, and now many cars, from a Nissan Altima to a Ford Escape, have it.

But if you lose your smart key, it can be a pain. Replacing one for a 2018 Honda Accord can cost around $300. That includes $150 for the smart key module and cutting the “emergency” key blade, plus about $120-$140 for an hour of programming. So, while smart keys are handy, losing them can be a bit heavy on the wallet.

Factors Affecting the Car Key Replacement Costs

While the average cost for car key replacement is $464, how much to replace car keys varies based on several factors. That’s why the car keys are so expensive.

For example, smart car key replacement costs could be lower or higher depending on your wants and needs. 

Here are some of the factors affecting the car keys cost;

1. Make and model of your car.
2. Your location.
3. Time of day.
4. Cost of Recovering Your Car.
5. Types of car keys.
6. Cost For Your Car Key Number Record.
7. Extra Car Key Features.

1. Make and Model of Your Car

Every car brand, like Nissan, Kia, or Renault, has its unique way of securing car keys, and this influences how much it costs to replace them. Even within the same brand, the cost can change based on the specific model of your car. Below, we’ll look at some popular car brands and what it typically costs to get a replacement key from their dealers.

2. Your Location

Where you live also makes a difference in how much it costs to replace your car key. The price can vary between different places, with dealers in New York often being the most expensive.

3. Time Of Day

If you get your car key replaced during the regular hours of dealers or auto locksmiths, it usually costs a standard amount. However, if you need a replacement outside of their normal working hours, it might be more expensive. If it’s not urgent, waiting until the next day could save you money. But in case you find yourself needing a car key replacement late at night, you can call us & our locksmith will assist you.

4. Cost of Recovering Your Car

Main dealers do not usually have a mobile service for key programming. This means that if you lose your car key, you will also need to allocate a budget for the cost of recovering your car from their workshop.

5. Cost For Your Car Key Number Record

Make sure to have a record of your car key number and immobilizer code. If you don’t, the dealer could charge an extra fee for supplying this.

6. Extra Car Key Features

These days, car keys come with cool safety features like alarms, Bluetooth trackers, remote start, and more. Sure, these extras might cost you more, but they make your key more secure and your life a bit easier.

Getting your car keys replaced can be a bit pricey and take some time, but it’s necessary if you want to use your car again. Luckily, Airtasker makes it simple. You can find local auto locksmiths and connect with Taskers who fit your budget – easy and convenient!

Different Ways To Replace Car Keys

When you lose your car keys, it’s important to realize that there are many different ways to replace your car keys. You can read our guide Different Ways To Replace Car Keys to understand how you can easily replace your car keys in multiple ways.

FAQs – Car Key Replacement Cost

1. How Much Does It Cost To Copy A Car Key?

Several factors affect the key replacement cost, ranging from $50 to $500, which makes the car keys so expensive. The final sum depends on the key type because each has a different replacement procedure.

2. How Can I Get A Replacement Key For My Car?

Contacting Us will always be the best thing to get a key replacement for your car. You can read our guide on How To Get A Replacement Car Key Without The Original for your easiness.

3. Can You Get A Key Made For A Car With The VIN?

Yes, you can get a key made for a car with its VIN, though you’ll also need to show proof of ownership to the locksmith service. On some newer vehicles, the vehicle must be present when the key is cut, so you wouldn’t be able to order a key online, for example.

You can read our guide on How To Get A Replacement Car Key Without The Original to know about how you can order a key with the VIN.