Home / Blog / Key Replacement

Why One Replacement Car Key Costs More Than Another

Asking around for a replacement car key price can bring different results. There are many things that can influence a locksmith's quote, and being informed about those things will allow you to understand better the price offered by a locksmith.

What type of key do you need?

The type of key required is one of the biggest price influencers:

  • Metal blank key is the cheapest and fastest option since no programming is necessary.
  • Transponder key has an embedded security chip in addition to a regular key blade.
  • Remote head key features lock and unlock buttons.
  • Smart key works with push-to-start systems.
  • Proximity key operates with radio frequency communication.

Each subsequent type of the key is more sophisticated, so the amount of work to be done increases.

Do you have one working key left?

Having at least one working key might significantly lower the cost of a car key duplication, when there are no functioning keys, the locksmith must make an entirely new key using a code from the vehicle.

The procedure takes extra time and effort from the locksmith, which might increase the total cost. It might happen that keys for similar cars differ in terms of price because one person still has a key, and another lost all keys.

Does it matter which make/model/years of the Vehicle You Have?

Of course, many different manufacturers employ different methods of protection and some car models require a specialist's attention because the manufacturer uses a non-standard approach to securing the vehicle.

The cost of the procedure depends on the type of security system used in the vehicle. Cars produced by premium brands can be more expensive than ordinary ones.

How much programming does your vehicle require?

Some modern car keys are needed to be programmed, therefore before starting, the vehicle needs to learn the new key. Depending on the complexity of the system used, the time of the procedure varies.

Location and timing

Mobile locksmith services are delivered to your exact location preventing the need for towing and saving you money right there. Timing plays a crucial role too, a normal lockout job arranged during regular working hours will be the easiest, but in case of emergencies outside office hours and with you stuck somewhere, the most economical course will be preplanned.

Why dealerships may charge extra?

The dealers may offer car key replacement services, but they usually require bringing the car to their shop.

It means that the following services may be required:

  • Towing.
  • Waiting in line.
  • Labor costs.
  • Service costs.

Mobile services eliminate most problems related to dealer services, making the procedure faster and cheaper.

How to get the most precise quotation?

The most precise quotation would be obtained if a person has information about the following items before calling a locksmith:

  • Car year.
  • Make.
  • Model.
  • Key type.
  • Availability of one working key.

The more information is provided by the customer, the less room for miscalculations, these following questions will save you a lot of time while making it easier for you to obtain more accurate quotes:

  • What type of key do I need?
  • Do I have at least one working key left?
  • What are the exact year, make and model of the car?
  • Can the locksmith access to the car?

Why are some car keys more expensive to replace?

The cost of replacement car keys depends on various parameters, such as car characteristics, key type and presence or absence of working keys. One of the most reliable solutions that will help to lower the cost of key replacement is to have a backup key.

Need your car key replaced today? You've got to the right place, because we provide mobile car key replacement and fob programming throughout Los Angeles and the surrounding areas.

Want a real quote for your car? Victory Car Locksmith handles it on-site, wherever your car is parked. Request a quote or call (213) 816-6024.

Related articles

Ready for a straight quote on a Los Angeles key?

Call (213) 816-6024