It can cost anywhere from $5 to over $200 to replace a car key. It all depends on the make and model of your car and how many keys you need to be replaced. The average cost is about $65-$75 for one key, but that varies depending on what kind of locksmith service you go through or whether or not you have an after-market replacement key made by a locksmith.
Why would I need to replace my car key?
Why would I need to replace my car key?There are a few different reasons why you might need to replace your car key. If it is worn down and no longer locks or unlocks the doors, then that’s probably a good indication that it needs to be replaced as soon as possible before someone gets locked out of their car or, worse- their ignition breaks off in the lock. A broken key usually means you can’t unlock your vehicle, and that’s why it might be time to replace the key.
Suppose a regular household screwdriver can remove all metal from around your ignition lock cylinder but still not allow you access into the trunk or steering wheel. In that case, the chances are good that either someone has attempted to steal your vehicle and failed or the lock is broken and needs to be replaced.
A broken lock cylinder is a grave matter. If you need to get into your trunk or steering wheel but can’t, then you must take the car straight to an auto locksmith as soon as possible for service.
How much does it cost to replace a car key?
The average price for a car key replacement seems around $165-$175 per key, but that varies depending on what locksmith service you go through and whether or not they have an after-market replacement made by a locksmith. Many locksmiths prefer to use after-market replacements because it’s less expensive for the customer, and they can usually do their work on-site.
If you need to replace an ignition lock cylinder, too, then the price will probably be a bit higher. If Toyota makes your car and if it’s 2005 or newer, for example, then expect to pay somewhere around $300-$400 because those locks are usually complicated to crack into without professional equipment that most locksmiths don’t have.
To get a reasonable price for your key replacement, be sure to ask the locksmith precisely what they plan on doing and how much it will all cost before you allow them to start work or take any payment from you whatsoever. If there’s anything fishy going on at all with their prices, then consider calling another locksmith for a second quote.
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How long does it take to replace a car key?
Replacing your car keys can usually be done within 30 minutes or less, and that’s if the locksmith service has the replacement on hand already. If they have to contact their supplier first to get one made by another locksmith, you might have to wait a bit longer.
If you need to get into your trunk or steering wheel because the lock cylinder is broken, then expect it to take at least an hour for them to crack open the ignition and replace it with another one that works just as well. If they cannot rekey this part of your car, however, you might be able to do it on your own with the help of some online guides that show you how.
What should you consider when deciding whether or not to replace your car keys?
If your keys are worn down and no longer lock or unlock the door, then the chances are good that you need to replace them as soon as possible before someone gets locked out of their car. If a regular household screwdriver can remove all of the metal from around your ignition lock but still not allow you access into the trunk or steering wheel, then it’s probably time to call a locksmith.
If you need to get into your trunk or steering wheel but can’t, then you must take the car straight to an auto locksmith as soon as possible for service. If a broken lock is a severe matter and if there’s anything fishy going on at all with their prices, consider calling another locksmith for a second quote.
Final thoughts
Replacing a car key can be done in 30 minutes or less if the locksmith service has the replacement on hand already. If your keys are worn down and no longer locks or unlock the door, then the chances are good that you need to replace them as soon as possible before someone gets locked out of their car. Always get the professional service of a locksmith to avoid any hassles down the road.
