How to Avoid Expensive Replacement Car Key Costs It's not pleasant to lose or lose your car keys. It can also cost a lot to replace them. The cost of a replacement key could differ greatly based on the type of key, the way it's replaced, and where you get it completed. Below are some of the most important elements that determine the cost of replacing a Cheap car key replacement near me key. Make and Model of Your Vehicle Not long ago the loss or misplacement of your emergency car key replacement keys wasn't an issue. You could go to your local locksmith or hardware store and purchase a basic steel key replacement for pennies. Nowadays, cars are more technologically advanced and so are keys. This makes it harder for thieves to steal a car keys lost replacement, but also increases the cost of replacing a stolen or lost key. One of the biggest factors that affects the cost of the replacement car key is the make and model of the vehicle. Some manufacturers produce more complex, high-tech keys than others.