How to Replace It for Hundreds Less

Hardware stores used to copy car keys for just a dollar or two. But now most car keys are high-tech devices that can cost hundreds of dollars to replace. Fortunately, there can be ways to save. What you need to know…

TYPES OF KEYS

Different cars use a variety of key technologies with varying replacement costs. For all the key types, dealerships charge an extra $40 to $150 for 30 to 60 minutes of labor to program them for your car. Labor costs might be higher if you don’t have any remaining copies of the key because programming might be more difficult—all the locks might need to be recoded. You probably will have to have the vehicle towed to a dealership, too.

Transponder keys have computer chips hidden inside their plastic heads. When the ignition is turned on, the vehicle sends a signal to the key as a theft deterrent. The car won’t start unless the chip in the key sends back the proper response. Dealerships charge $40 to $200 for replacement transponder keys. Valet keys vary in functionality but generally are less expensive to replace.

Electronic key fobs attach to key rings and feature buttons that remotely open doors or perform other functions. Dealerships typically charge $50 to $100 for replacement fobs.

Smart keys are electronic devices similar to fobs, only they wirelessly transmit security codes that allow cars to be started without mechanical keys, although some include a manual key for emergencies. Dealerships often charge $200 to $400 for smart keys.

Laser-cut keys—also called “sidewinder” keys—have thicker shanks and fewer grooves than conventional keys. Dealerships often charge $150 to $250 for replacements.

NONDEALER OPTIONS

Some locksmiths, hardware stores and auto-parts stores can replace laser-cut keys and can replace and program certain transponder keys. Prices usually are well below dealership rates, but they can vary significantly, so call around for quotes.

Helpful: Locksmiths who belong to Associated Locksmiths of America are likely to have the equipment and know-how. www.FindALocksmith.com

Replacement transponder keys, fobs and smart keys are available on eBay and elsewhere online for well below dealership or locksmith prices—but people who purchase these sometimes discover that the keys don’t work with their vehicles or don’t work at all. I would steer clear unless the device is guaranteed to come from the original manufacturer…you locate confirmation in a car-owner chat group that reprogramming eBay-purchased keys has worked for others with your specific vehicle…the seller receives excellent feedback from other eBay buyers…and the price of the eBay part is far enough below dealership and locksmith prices that it is worth the gamble.

ADDITIONAL MONEY SAVERS

Five more potential money savers…

Labor charges might be avoidable even when the dealership is the only option. Some dealerships act as if programming a transponder key is a difficult job—and with some models and in some cases, it does indeed require a pro. But assuming that you still have at least one of your keys, programming a replacement key could be simply a matter of inserting and turning keys in a particular sequence.

Example: With some models, you just put the working key in the ignition, turn it to on, turn it back to off, then quickly insert the new key and again turn the ignition to on. If the procedure is not detailed in your owner’s manual, Google your make and model along with the words “program” and “key” (or “fob”).

If it is possible to program your car’s keys and fobs without dealership assistance, another owner likely has posted the instructions in a vehicle chat group. Web sites that sell replacement transponder keys also might provide online directions.

Investigate the process for programming your vehicle’s keys before you lose a key. Occasionally this procedure requires both of the keys issued with the car. If so, it might be worth buying and programming a spare key before either of the originals is lost, particularly if you’re someone who loses things frequently.

Call several dealerships for price quotes if you must replace a key or fob through a dealership. Rates can vary significantly. Make sure that quotes include both parts and labor.

Turn down lost-key insurance if a salesman offers it to you. It’s overpriced. If you’re very concerned about losing your keys, use your money to purchase and program a spare key instead.

Buy a key-locator device if you lose your keys often. These gadgets are available on Amazon.com and elsewhere for less than $50. Their range tends to be limited, however—these devices can help you locate your keys when you lose them in your home or workplace but probably not when you lose them around town. Taping your e-mail address and possibly a “reward if found” message to the key ring might help.