How Much Does a Car Key Replacement Cost?

Car keys are relatively small and can get lost in tiny spaces like coat pockets, under cushions, inside purses, and so on. Also, car keys are lightweight so you wouldn’t notice when it falls off your purse.

However, the frustration that accompanies losing your car key is second to none. At some point, you start asking friends and family to recommend a qualified locksmith that offers the fastest and most reliable car key replacement service.

So, you’ve lost your car key and you need Columbus Locksmith Pro for a quick, relatively affordable, and reliable replacement car key service. But, you want to know how much it would cost to replace your lost car key.

Let’s take a quick look at the average cost of replacing car keys.

The Cost of Getting Car Key Replacement

The cost of replacing car keys varies and is determined by a variety of factors such as the type of key you want to be replaced and so on. Here’s the average cost of replacing car keys based on their types:

Basic Car Keys and Fobs

Electronic key fobs are most common in modern cars and the cost of replacing them would depend on their design complexities and brands. Replacing an electronic key fob would cost between $50 and $100. In some cases, the cost could be slightly higher.

You’ll also be charged a token for programming your new key fob.

Transponder Keys

Transponder car keys have more complex designs and sophisticated technologies than basic electronic fobs. Transponders come with RFID microchips in their key heads. Each microchip is designed to send a unique radio signal to its vehicle. The vehicle’s onboard computer verifies the signal and allows the ignition to start if the signal received is the right one.

Replacing your transponder key would cost between $150 and $250.

Laser-Cut Keys

There is a clear difference between the way basic keys and laser-cut keys look. This appearance's uniqueness can be traced to their mechanical cuts.

Laser-cut keys come with pre-programmed transponder microchips and are cut using more sophisticated key-cutting machines. If you are replacing a laser-cut key, you should keep in mind that your locksmith would also need to program it.

Replacing your laser-cut key would cost between $150 and $250. This rate includes labor charges.

Switchblade Keys

Switchblade keys’ shanks can be folded into their respective key fobs and popped out when their buttons are pressed. Their cuts can be either basic cuts or laser cuts. One of the benefits of using a switchblade key is that you can buy the parts separately. This implies that you can buy the shank alone for an average of $70 if the problem you are facing is with your key’s shank.

However, replacing the entire switchblade key would cost between $200 and $300.

Smart Keys

Keyless entry remotes or smart keys don’t look like most keys. With smart keys, you don’t need to insert your key into your car’s ignition. This key opens your car door or starts its ignition with the press of a button.

Replacing your smart key would cost between $220 and $500.

Final Thoughts

It is better to take good care of your car keys. This way, you are certain that they would operate properly for a long time. However, if you need a car key replacement or have any locksmith needs, contact Columbus Locksmith Pro for reliable service.