Losing your car keys or key fob is never a fun experience. You retrace your steps, search high and low, and still can’t find them anywhere. Eventually, you (the car owner) have to come to terms with the fact that they’re gone for good. But don’t worry—we’re here to help! In this blog post, we’ll outline some of the important factors that influence the cost of car key replacement so you can be prepared when it happens to you.
There are a few different factors that will influence the cost of replacing your car keys. Here are some of the most important ones to keep in mind:
- The Make and Model of Your Vehicle: One of the biggest factors that will affect the price of key replacement is the make and model of your vehicle. If you have a newer or luxury vehicle, it’s likely that the replacement key will be more expensive. This is because newer cars often have technologically advanced keys with features like remote start or keyless entry—features that require a more complex new key to replace.
- The Automotive Locksmith You Use: Another big factor influencing the cost of car key replacement is the auto locksmith you use. Prices can vary depending on the locksmith’s experience, location, and availability. It’s always a good idea to do your research ahead of time and find a reputable locksmith service provider in your area so you know you’re getting a fair price from the car locksmith.
- The Time of Year: Believe it or not, the time of year can also impact how much you’ll pay for key duplication. Prices are often higher during peak summer months because demand is higher. So, if you can wait to get your basic or transponder keys replaced until the off-season, you may be able to save yourself some money.
- Location: Lastly, where you live also plays a role in how much it will cost to replace your car keys. If you’re located in a rural area, it’s likely that there will be fewer locksmiths to choose from and prices may be higher as a result. However, if the car owner lives in a city like Chicago with plenty of locksmith options, they may be able to find a better deal for a replacement car key.
- Holiday Lost Key Troubles: Prices are generally higher during the holiday season due to increased demand from customers who have lost their car keys or key fob while on vacation travel, or face the problem of stolen car keys.
- The type of car you have: Some cars are just more expensive than others. If you have a luxury car, for example, you can expect to pay more for duplicate car keys than someone with a more budget-friendly vehicle or basic car key.
- The complexity of the key: If you have a simple or basic car key, it will be less expensive to replace than if you have a smart key with a transponder or other complex features.
- Single Original Key: If you lose your only original key, it may be more expensive to replace than if you have a spare key. But remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your car keys!
- How many car keys need to be replaced: Obviously, replacing one key will cost less than replacing multiple keys.
The average cost of a new car key replacement in Chicago is $200-$300 depending on the factors listed above. Many locksmiths offer discounts for AAA members, seniors, students, and military personnel.
So there you have it! Everything you need to know about the cost of car key replacement in Chicago. If you find yourself in need of a replacement key, don’t hesitate to call Jose, a professional locksmith at Chicago Car Keys at (773) 521-7000 – we’ll be happy to help!
