How Much Does It Cost For Car Key Replacement?
There are a variety of options for those who lose their car keys. The most affordable option is to use a locksmith.
If you have a dealership you can contact them. A replacement from the dealer can be more expensive, but it's the most affordable.
Technician
Losing keys to your car can be a stressful experience and if you have a remote key fob it could be costly. A replacement key can range between $25 and $450 based on your car's model and make. The cost of a new key is influenced by the type of key you have as well as the dealer from whom you purchase it from.
You can either employ a locksmith or visit the car dealership to get a new key. Both options have different costs, but the dealer option is usually the most expensive. If you have a conventional key that isn't a key fob, you can typically locate a locksmith who will cut and program it for $50.
Modern car keys contain an electronic chip that connects to your car when you use them to lock or start it. These keys are more difficult to duplicate and will cost more to replace. A basic transponder will cost you about $150. A laser-cut version, which is more difficult to duplicate, will cost about $200.
If you require an replacement for a advanced key, such as the switchblade on the form of a key fob, or a smartkey, you'll have go to a dealer. Most locksmiths do not have the tools needed to duplicate keys like these. You'll need purchase them from the dealer. It could take several days, and you won't be able to access your vehicle until the keys arrive.
Making sure your keys aren't lost is the most effective way to avoid any extra expenses. Consider keeping a spare in your glove box and utilizing the device to track your keys.
If you lose your car keys, make sure to contact the police as quickly as possible. Don't attempt to force entry into the car, as this could result in an insurance claim or even a theft claim. Additionally, breaking windows or using wire hangers can raise red flags with insurance companies and make it difficult to convince them that you're a legitimate owner of the car.
Dealership
Most people have lost their car keys at some point or another. The loss of keys can be a major hassle, whether they fell into another dimension or were flushed into the toilet by the cat. Replacing keys can be expensive.
The cost of replacing a key at a dealership will vary based on the type of key you have and the vehicle model. Typically, metal keys can be duplicated at locksmiths or other third-party workshops however, most modern vehicles have transponder keys that are specially designed and need to be programmed by a dealer in order to work properly.
Dealers may charge anything from $500 to $1,000 to replace and reprogram these keys. Although that might seem costly, you can reduce the cost by signing up for a comprehensive program for key replacement. These programs offer an annual fee that includes replacement of eligible keys and remote transponders (but not valet keys) if they are lost or damaged. Some even provide one eligible key replacement per year, at no cost.
These programs are usually provided by car dealers as an additional service to their bumper-to-bumper warranty or extended warranty. You may also be able to locate them through reputable companies that specialize in roadside assistance.
If you lose a transponder or an all-in one laser-cut key then you'll have to have your vehicle taken to the dealership in order for them to replace it. They'll need to purchase the new key and pair it with your vehicle in a process that can take days to complete.
To avoid having to pay the full cost for a new key, ensure you keep a spare key in the back of your hand. In case you lose the VIN it's an excellent idea to note it down. The VIN can be found on your car's documentation, the dashboard or the door jamb. You can also contact the manufacturer of your vehicle or a GEICO agent for help finding the VIN. GEICO Roadside Assistance can tow your car to a qualified repair facility. It's free to sign up and is available through the GEICO mobile application.
Independent Locksmith
Most people are not ready for the expense of replacing keys to their car. If you lose your keys, you need to know the cost. It is possible to spend an enormous amount of money if you go through a dealership, however it's possible to find low-cost solutions through third-party providers.
It's a good idea make an extra key and store it in a secure place should you be worried about losing yours. It's possible to do this using an independent locksmith or a dealership, but you'll likely have to wait for the service to be completed. Some locksmiths offer a 24 hour service, but it can be expensive.
The cost of car key replacement can vary based on the type of car you have and the features it comes with. A basic metal key is typically sold at a local hardware store for less than $10. However, a transponder key or "smart key" that connects to your car through a radio transmitter is more expensive. If your car was built within the past decade or so it is likely to have a key fob remote that must be programmed to work with your vehicle.
While many locksmiths have equipment to cut the car key but not all carry the necessary blanks for every make and model. And not all of them have the tools to program a brand new car key, especially for models with high-end features that require special keys.
The time of day that you require the car key is another factor that affects the cost. You'll be charged more for a key that is needed in an emergency when it's outside of the normal hours of many locksmiths. The location of your home can influence the cost of a replacement car key. You'll probably pay more for an area that is remote.
In certain cases keys to your car can be covered by insurance. Contact your insurance company to determine what coverage you have. In other situations, the replacement cost may be included in the vehicle's warranty or roadside assistance additional add-ons.
Roadside Assistance
The term roadside assistance is a reference to services that assist motorists and motorcyclists stuck on the side of the road. This kind of service is offered by transportation departments, automobile associations, or insurance companies for vehicles. The company's employees will respond to the call and check the car or motorcycle to determine what repairs need to be completed. If you require a replacement key the company could charge a fee to supply one.
It is essential to to duplicate the car key. This is typically done professionally at a locksmith shop or by using an instrument for key duplication. However the methods used to duplicate older mechanical keys don't work for modern keys that have technology integrated into them. These keys come with a transponder in the head of the key that communicates with your vehicle to confirm it's a valid key. These kinds of keys are much harder to duplicate, and are typically made at an auto dealership or by a licensed automotive locksmith.
If you're having issues with the key fob in your car the first step is to replace the battery. The procedure is fairly simple and quick, and most hardware stores will sell the required batteries for less than $10. If you're not able to locate the right battery, dealers or auto experts may be able to provide one at no cost.
A stolen or lost key can cause a lot of problem, particularly if you're stuck on the side of the highway. Many people try to fix the problem by copying a car key using a key-cutting machine or file. car key and remote replacement are not compatible with modern car keys however. They require precise programming and copying by a certified professional, like a technician, car dealership professional or locksmith.
Car dealerships have the lowest cost for replacing keys, but also charge the highest costs. Check with your insurance company to find out if the cost of replacing keys is covered.