Why Are Replacement Car Keys Expensive?

It’s long past the days when you could walk into a hardware shop and get duplicate keys for pennies. Many drivers have never seen an older metal key that looks similar to a house key. The modern car uses everything from a simple transponder key with a black head to a much more complicated keyless proximity remote. 

The electronic components in the newer keys do everything from operating the door locks to disabling the immobilizer. All these electronic components are susceptible to wear with time. You may have to replace your car key or repair it at some point.

What Is the Cost of a Replacement Car Key?

The cost of replacing a car key is affected by several factors. The cost of replacing a car key is affected by several factors, including the complexity and type of key, as well as the model, year, and make of your vehicle.

Parts Costs

We have already said that the car keys are electronic devices. The key contains circuitry and a battery that powers its functions. The replacement key itself can be expensive. This is even before you have it programmed or cut to fit your vehicle.

A genuine BMW car key fob, for example, can range from $170 for an ignition key up to $1,000 for one with a radio remote display. The keys are coded with your VIN, but they still require programming. Before you start, this part is expensive. A replacement key fob can cost up to $160.00 for a Lexus ES350 from 2015. These keys are available in cheaper versions that aren’t made by Lexus or BMW. The quality of these keys varies greatly, and some are cheap copies. Many auto locksmiths in your area will not even program or cut these keys due to the high 

Cost of Equipment

To cut the blades for your replacement keys, you will need sophisticated and expensive equipment. To remain profitable, businesses must include their overhead in their prices. The cost of the machinery will be included in the price to replace your key. In the case of Mercedes and BMW vehicles, special equipment is needed that is only available to these brands. The cost of cutting those keys is going to be higher because only the owners of those cars will pay for the special equipment needed to do so.

Keychain Locksmith Kansas City is your trusted locksmith in Shawnee, MO. With years of experience, our dedicated team of skilled locksmiths is committed to providing top-notch services to ensure your security and peace of mind.