Why are new keys so expensive?!

[Cindycs]

I've had a quote for a new key for my 2012 Berlingo XTR of about £220, and the local locksmith guy who does them for about £180. I had no idea it was so expensive!

Any ideas on how to make it cheaper? My keys do work but the plastic outer casing is shot and breaks apart (currently held together with duct tape). 

Any links/advice would be much appreciated. TIA.

[jamesg]

Can't you just get a new case off ebay and transfer the insides?

[Tomcat3]

If the internal parts are ok you could buy a new case/shell and swap the parts over or there are companies out there that will refurb your key for you. https://www.autotronics.co.uk/
https://www.remotekeyrepairs.com/product...r-service/
Ive not used these companies its just an example as what to look for.

[iscom]

Is that for a complete key including transponder and programing?
I was quoted 80euro for programing my spare key which the remote in not working but manualy opens and starts the car

[Tomcat3]

In the above sites the prices are for repairing cases and some do circuit board and button repairs.

[Cindycs]

Is that for a complete key including transponder and programing?  
I was quoted 80euro for programing my spare key which the remote in not working but manualy opens and starts the car

Hi, who was that from?

[iscom]

Is that for a complete key including transponder and programing?  
I was quoted 80euro for programing my spare key which the remote in not working but manualy opens and starts the car

Hi, who was that from?

That was a locksmith in Athlone  Ireland

[geoff]

I had a transponder failure ( how who knows ? ) and the main dealer supplied and coded a replacement for £120

The key blade and remote circuitry were not replaced in this price but the casing was.

As said above you can get a new casing from Ebay for a fiver and you simply swap out all the internal components, easy job even for a child !

[iscom]

I have post a how repair or replace remote key on the How To page

[Cindycs]

I had a transponder failure ( how who knows ? ) and the main dealer supplied and coded a replacement for £120

The key blade and remote circuitry were not replaced in this price but the casing was.

As said above you can get a new casing from Ebay for a fiver and you simply swap out all the internal components, easy job even for a child !

Ok, I'm going to give it a go! Have ordered one from Ebay...