A VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) key is a mechanical key, but it does have a little resistor in it. Very rare keys (think out of production classic cars) can go as high as $25. You can pay as little as $7 or $8 for these keys, and most are around $10. How Much Does It Cost for a Mechanical Car Key? Standard, All Metal Car Key Mechanical keys do not require any programming, and they are the least expensive keys to have copied. But for the most part, you will need to see your car dealership if your auto’s manufacturer does not participate. On a very few models, it may be possible for a locksmith to ‘clone’ a key. We hear from customers telling us that some dealers are charging more than $600 for spare keys and FOBs! If you are lucky enough to drive one of these cars, you are unlucky in that they will be the most expensive backup car keys and FOBs you will ever get. With very few exceptions only dealers will be able to make VW, Mercedes, BMW, Porsche, Saab and Volvo keys.

There are financial consequences to this these manufacturers if they are selling cars in the US, but the manufacturers pay them, and keep their information proprietary, meaning if you need duplicate keys or fobs you have no choice but to go to the actual dealer for copies and replacements. German Car Manufacturers Are Some of the Most Expensive Car Keys But a few European manufacturers do not participate in NASTF. And there are rules and procedures in the US that most auto manufacturers abide by, allowing things like key and car key programming to be accomplished by locksmiths and auto mechanics.

What is NASTF? It is a cooperative effort from the auto service industry, the equipment and tool industry, and auto manufacturers, to assist in the objective of ensuring vehicle owners have the ability to swiftly and properly repair and service vehicles. If you auto dealer participates in the National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) key copies will still be reasonable as they will be competing with local auto key makers for your business. In addition, auto dealerships can make keys. These will be your lowest-cost car keys, as they are usually local providers. Locksmiths are a Great Price Option for Duplicate Car Keysįor most vehicles, locksmiths and some independent auto repair shops will have the equipment and credentials make and program car keys. In very rare cases (older vehicles only), you can get duplicate keys made at places like Auto Zone and Home Depot. Where to Get Duplicate Car Keys Made and How Does it Impact Cost? But if you do lose all of your keys, the cost to replace your last car key will be $100-200 more than the prices discussed below. this article focuses on just on how much it cost to duplicate a car key. Getting an extra car key may seem costly now, but in the long run, it will save you a lot more, should you lose it. While you may balk at these duplication costs, it can be 2X – 100X as expensive to originate a key when you’ve lost that last one! The reason is simple: it is far cheaper to make a copy of a key you already have than it is to originate one that you don’t. IMPORTANT NOTE: If you only have one working key for your vehicle, the time to get a copy is now. How Does Vendor Impact Key Cost? How Much Does It Cost for a Mechanical Car Key? Why Transponder Car Keys are More Expensive Can I Program A Car Key Myself And Save Money? Why Laser Cut Car Keys More Expensive Summary Chart Showing Auto Key Cost for All Key Factors Why Locksmiths are the Low-Cost Option to Duplicate a Car Key Ways to Save Money on Backup Car Keys Important Key Programming Tip

Car keys copied home depot