How Much Does It Cost For Car Key Replacement?
If you lose the car key there are several options to replace it. Locksmiths are the most affordable solution.
If you have a dealership, it is best to contact them. The dealer may cost a bit more, but the replacement will be cheaper.
Technician
Losing your car keys can be stressful, especially If you own an remote key fob it could be expensive. Getting a replacement key can cost anywhere from $25 to $450, based on the model and make of your car. The type of key you have and the dealer you choose to purchase it from, can impact the price of your key.
You can hire locksmiths to replace the keys to your car or could visit a dealership to purchase a new set. Both alternatives are different, but the dealer option is typically the most expensive. If you have a conventional key that's not a key fob, you can typically locate a locksmith who will cut and program it for about $50.
Modern car keys have chips that connect to your car when you use them to unlock it or start it. These keys are more difficult to duplicate and are more to replace. A basic transponder will cost about $150. A laser-cut version that is more difficult to duplicate, will cost you around $200.
If you have an advanced key, like the switchblade key found in a key fob or a smart key, you will need to visit the dealer for a replacement. Most locksmiths do not have the tools required to duplicate these keys. You'll have purchase them from a dealer. This could take several days, and you will not be able use your car until it arrives.
The best way to avoid the extra cost of losing your car keys is to stop them from being lost in the first place. Keep a spare in your pocket or glove box and using a tracking device for your keys.
Contact the police immediately if have lost your car keys. Don't attempt to force entry into the car, as this could result in an insurance claim or a theft claim. Additionally, breaking windows or hanging wire will cause alarms to insurance companies and make it harder to convince them that you're a legitimate owner of the car.
Dealership
The majority of people have lost their keys at some point. It doesn't matter if they fell into a different dimension or the cat flushed them in the toilet, losing your keys is a constant pain. Replacing them can really put a dent in your budget.
The cost of replacing a key at a dealer can differ based on the type of key you've got and the model of your vehicle. 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 to work.
Dealers may charge anything from $500 to $1,000 to replace and reprogram these keys. While this may sound expensive however, you can lower the costs by signing up for an extensive key replacement program. These programs charge a monthly fee that covers replacement of keys that are eligible and remote transponders, but not keys for valet, when they're damaged or lost. Some even offer one qualifying key replacement per year, at no cost.
The majority of these programs are offered at auto dealers, who often offer them as an add-on to their bumper-to-bumper or extended warranty coverage. They can also be found at reputable roadside assistance companies.
You'll need to tow your vehicle to a dealer to replace a lost transponder or all-in-one key. The dealership will need to request the key and connect it with your car, a process which can take a few days.
To avoid having to pay the full price for a replacement key, be sure to keep a spare in your possession. In case you lose the VIN it's a good idea to write it down. You can locate the VIN on your car's paperwork or on the dashboard or door jamb. You can also call the car's manufacturer or a GEICO representative for assistance. 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 app.
Independent Locksmith
Many people aren't ready for the expense of replacing a car key. It's crucial to know the cost before you lose your keys. You can expect to spend much if you go through the dealership. However, third-party suppliers might offer solutions that are affordable.
If you're worried about losing your car keys, it's an excellent idea to create another one and store it in a secure place. It's possible to do this using an independent locksmith or dealership, but you'll have to wait for the process to be completed. Some companies offer a 24-hour service, but it could be costly.
The cost of replacing keys for cars can differ depending on the type of vehicle you own and the features. A standard key made of metal can usually be copied at the hardware store for less than $10, however a transponder, or "smart" key that connects to the car through radio transmitters will cost significantly more. If your car was built in the last decade, it could have a key fob that needs to be programmed with your vehicle.
Many locksmiths are equipped to cut car keys however, not all have the necessary blanks for each model and make. Not all locksmiths have the technology necessary to program the car key. This is especially applicable to high-end models that come with specific keys.
Another aspect that affects the cost of car key replacement is the time of day that you need the key. You'll pay more for a emergency key if it is outside the regular hours of a majority of locksmiths. The location of your home can affect the cost of replacing a car key. You'll probably pay more for an area that is remote.
Insurance may pay for the replacement of a car key in some instances. Contact your insurance company to determine the coverage you have. In certain cases, the cost of replacement may be covered by the warranty of your vehicle or roadside assistance.
Roadside Assistance
The term "roadside assistance" refers to the services provided by the Department Transportation automobile associations, as well as insurance companies for motorcyclists and motorists on the sidelines of the highway. This kind of service is offered by departments of transportation or automobile associations, as well as vehicle insurance providers. auto key replacement will send an employee to examine the motorcycle or vehicle and determine if repairs are required. The company may charge for a new key if it is needed.
The ability to duplicate your car keys is important. This is typically done professionally either in the locksmith shop or using an instrument for key duplication. The methods used to duplicate old mechanical keys are not compatible with modern keys that have technology built in. These keys include a transponder inside the head of the key, which communicates with your car to confirm that it's a legitimate key. These keys are harder to duplicate and are typically only done by a dealer or a licensed locksmith.
The first thing you need to do if your car key fob isn't working correctly is to replace the batteries. Most hardware stores sell the batteries required for less than $10. Some auto dealers and specialists may be able provide the battery for free in case you're unable to locate the correct battery.
A lost or stolen key can cause a lot of issue, especially if stuck on the side of the highway. Many people try to fix the issue by copying a car key using a key-cutting machine or file. These methods will not work with modern car key however. Most of them require precision programming and copying by a certified professional such as a technician, car dealership professional or locksmith.
Car dealerships offer the lowest costs for replacing a key however they also charge some of the highest costs. It is worth contacting your insurance company to determine whether they cover the cost of replacing a car key.
