How Much Does It Cost For Car Key Replacement?
There are many options in the event that you lose your car keys. The most affordable option is to use an locksmith.
However, the best method is to contact your dealership in case you own one. A replacement from the dealer is a bit more expensive, but it's the least expensive.
Mechanical
Losing keys to your car can be an emotional experience, and If you own a remote key fob it could be expensive. Finding a replacement key could cost between $25 and $450, based on the make and model of your car. The cost of a new key will be influenced by the type of key that you own and the dealer from whom you purchase it from.
You can get a locksmith to replace the keys to your car or can go to a car dealership to purchase a brand new one. Both options are priced differently however the dealer option is typically the most expensive. If you have a conventional key that is not a key fob, you'll usually find a locksmith that can cut and program it for $50.
Modern car keys have an electronic chip that connects with your vehicle when you use it to unlock the car or start the engine. These keys require a much more complex process to duplicate and are more expensive to replace. A basic transponder key will cost around $150, while one that's laser-cut and more difficult to duplicate will cost you about $200.
If you own a more advanced key, like an e-key in a key fob or a smart key, you'll need to visit the dealer to purchase the replacement. The majority of locksmiths do not have the equipment to duplicate these kinds of keys, so you will need to have them ordered by the dealer. This could take a couple of days and you won't be allowed to drive your vehicle until the key is delivered.
Preventing your keys from becoming lost is the most effective way to avoid any extra cost. Keep a spare in your purse or glove box, and using the device to track your keys.
If you lose your car keys, be sure to call the police as soon as possible. Don't attempt to force entry into the car, as this could lead to an insurance claim or a theft claim. Also, breaking windows or using wire hangers could cause alarms to insurance companies and make it difficult to convince them that you're a legitimate owner of the vehicle.
Dealership
Most people have lost their keys to their car at one point or another. If they fell into a different dimension or your cat flushed them into the toilet, losing your keys is always a hassle. Replacing keys can be expensive.
The cost to replace a key can vary depending on the model of your vehicle and the type of key you own. Locksmiths and third-party workshops are able to easily duplicate keys made of metal. However, most modern vehicles come with a transponder keys that must be programmed by the dealer in order to work.
Dealers charge between $500 to $1,000 to replace and reprogram these keys. While this may sound expensive, you can reduce the costs by signing up to an extensive key replacement program. These programs charge a monthly cost that includes replacement of eligible key and remote transponders, but not valet keys if they're lost or damaged. Some programs provide the possibility of a free key replacement each year.
A majority of these programs are offered at auto dealers, who typically offer them as an extra addition to their bumper-to-bumper or extended warranty coverage. You may also be able to find them through reputable companies that specialize in roadside assistance.
If car key replacement fob lose a transponder key or an all-in-one laser-cut key then you'll have to have your vehicle town to a dealership for them to replace it. The dealership will need to request the key and connect it to your vehicle and this could take several days.
To avoid having to pay the full amount for a replacement key, make sure to keep a spare on hand. In case you lose the VIN it's recommended to note it down. You can locate the VIN on your car's paperwork or on the dashboard or door jamb. You can also contact the manufacturer of your car or an GEICO representative for assistance. GEICO's Roadside Assistance service can help you towing your vehicle to a qualified repair shop. It's completely free to join and available on the GEICO mobile application.
Independent Locksmith
The majority of people aren't prepared for the cost of replacing keys to their car. Before you lose your keys, it's important to be aware of the price. You can expect to pay lots of money through a dealership, however it is possible to find low-cost solutions through third-party vendors.
It's a good idea create a second key and keep it in a safe place should you be worried about losing yours. You can hire an independent locksmith or a dealership to make this happen, but you'll likely need to wait until the work is completed. Some businesses offer an emergency service, but it can be more expensive.
The cost of replacing keys for cars can differ dependent on the kind of car you own and the features. A standard metal key can be duplicated at the hardware store for less than $10 however a transponder, or "smart" key that connects to the car through radio transmitters costs considerably more. Additionally, if your car was built within the past decade or so, it likely has the key fob remote that needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
While many locksmiths have the tools to cut keys for cars but not all have the appropriate blanks for each make and model. Not all have the technology to program a new car key, specifically for models with high-end features that require special keys.
Another aspect that affects the cost of replacing a car key is the time of day you need the key. You'll pay more for a emergency key if it is outside the normal hours of many locksmiths. Finally, the location where you reside can impact the cost of a car key replacement as well. You'll be charged more if your house is in a remote location.
Insurance can pay for the replacement of keys to your car in certain cases. Check with your insurance company to see what coverage you are entitled to. In other cases the cost of replacement may be covered under the warranty of your vehicle or roadside assistance add-ons.
Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance refers to the services provided by the Department of Transportation automobile associations, the Department of Transportation, or vehicle insurance providers for motorcyclists and motorists on the roadside. This kind of assistance is provided by departments of transportation, automobile associations, or insurance companies for vehicles. The company will send a representative to examine the motorcycle or vehicle and determine if repairs are needed. The company may charge for a replacement key if it is needed.
Having the ability to duplicate your car keys is important. This procedure is usually performed by a professional at a locksmith's store or by using a key duplication machine. The methods employed to duplicate the older mechanical keys do not work with modern keys with technology built into. They have a transponder built into the head of the key that communicates with your vehicle to confirm it's a valid key. These types of keys are very difficult to duplicate, and are usually only made at a dealership or by an authorized automotive locksmith.
If you're experiencing a problem with the key fob in your car the first step is to replace the battery. The majority of hardware stores have the batteries needed for less than $10. Some dealers and auto specialists may be able to offer an unpaid battery if you are unable to find the right one.
A stolen or lost key can be a huge issue, especially if stuck on the side of the road. Many people attempt to solve the issue by copying their car key using a key cutting machine or a file. These methods will not work with modern car keys however. Most of them require precision programming and copying by an expert like a technician, locksmith or professional from a car dealership.
Car dealerships provide the cheapest costs for replacing a key however, they also charge some of the highest fees. Check with your insurance provider to find out if the cost of replacing keys is covered.