How Much Does It Cost For Car Key Replacement?
There are many options if you lose your car keys. Locksmiths are the most affordable solution.
However, the best way is to call your dealer if you have one. The process of getting a replacement through the dealer may be more expensive, but it's the least expensive.
Technician
Losing your car key can be stressful and expensive, especially if you use a remote. The cost of a replacement key ranges from $25 to $450 depending on the model and make. The type of key you have, as well as the dealer you select to purchase it from can impact the price of your key.
You can either employ a locksmith or go to the car dealership to get a new key. Both options come with different costs and the dealer option is usually the most expensive. Locksmiths are usually able to cut and program a traditional key, which is not an fob.
Modern car keys come with an electronic chip that connects with your vehicle when you use it to lock or start the engine. These keys require a much more involved process to copy and are more expensive to replace. A basic transponder will cost about $150. A laser-cut version which is more difficult to duplicate, will cost you about $200.
If you require an replacement for a sophisticated key, like a switchblade inside a key fob or a smartkey, you'll need to go to the dealer. car key replacements of locksmiths do not have the equipment to duplicate these kinds of keys, so you'll need to have them ordered from a dealer. This can take several days, and you won't be able use your car until it arrives.
The best way to avoid the cost of losing your car keys is to avoid them from being lost in the first place. Keep an extra key in your pocket or in the glove box, and you should consider using a tracking device to locate your keys.
If you do lose your car keys, be sure to notify the police as quickly as possible. You should not attempt to enter the car because this could lead to an insurance claim or a claim for theft. Additionally, breaking windows or using wire hangers can cause alarms to insurance companies and make it difficult to convince them that you're a legitimate owner of the car.
Dealership
A majority of people have lost their keys at some point. It doesn't matter if they fell into another dimension or your cat flushed them in the toilet, losing your keys is always a pain. Replacing them can really put a dent in your budget.
The cost of replacing a key can vary depending on the type of vehicle you own and the type of key you own. Traditionally metal regular keys are simple to duplicate at locksmiths or other third-party workshops, but most modern vehicles are equipped with transponder keys that are specially designed and need to be programmed by a dealer to function properly.
For these types of keys, the dealer will charge anywhere from $500-$1000 to replace and reprogram. Signing up for a comprehensive program for replacement keys can cut down on costs. These programs cost a monthly fee that covers replacement of keys that are eligible 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.
These programs are typically offered by car dealers as an extra service to their bumper-tobumper warranty or extended warranty. They can also be found at reputable roadside assistance firms.
If you lose a transponder or an all-in-one laser-cut key and you're not able to replace it, you'll need your vehicle town to the dealership in order to have them replace it. They'll have to purchase the new key and pair it with your vehicle. This process could take a few days to complete.
Keep a spare key on hand to keep from paying the full cost of the replacement. In case you lose the VIN, it is an excellent idea to record it. The VIN can be located on your vehicle's documentation, on the dashboard or door jamb. You can also call the car's manufacturer or a GEICO representative to get assistance. GEICO's Roadside Assistance service can help you tow your vehicle to a certified repair shop. The GEICO app provides this service for free.
Independent Locksmith
Most people are not prepared for the expense of replacing a car key. It's crucial to know what the cost is before you lose your keys. It is possible to pay much if you go through the dealership. However, third-party providers may offer affordable solutions.
If you're worried about losing your car keys, it's a good idea to make an extra key and keep it in a safe location. You can do this by using an independent locksmith or a dealership, but you'll likely be waiting for the process to be completed. Some companies provide a 24-hour service, but it could be expensive.
The cost of replacing keys for cars can differ depending on the type of vehicle you own and its features. A regular metal key is typically available at a local hardware store for less than $10. However, a transponder key or "smart key" that connects with the car via radio transmitter will cost a lot more. In addition, if your car was built in the recent past, it likely has a key fob remote that needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Many locksmiths are equipped to cut car keys but not all carry the blanks required for each type and make. They also don't all have the technology to program a brand new car key, especially for models with high-end features that require special keys.
The time of day you require the car key is another factor that affects the price. Locksmiths generally work during regular hours, which means that you'll be charged more if you require the key in an emergency outside of these hours. The location of your home can influence the cost of a replacement car key. You'll pay more for replacement if your home is in a remote area.
Insurance may cover the cost of replacing the car key in certain circumstances. Contact your insurance company to find out what coverage you are entitled to. In certain cases, the cost of replacement may be covered by the vehicle's warranty and/or roadside assistance.
Roadside Assistance
The term roadside assistance is a reference to services that assist motorists or motorcyclists stuck on the side of the highway. This service is provided by the automobile associations, departments of transportation or insurance companies for vehicles. The employees of the company will respond to the call and check the car or motorcycle to determine the type of repairs that need to be made. If a replacement key is needed, the company may charge a fee to supply one.
It is crucial to to duplicate your car key. This is typically done professionally whether in the locksmith shop or using the aid of a key duplication device. However, the methods used to copy older mechanical keys won't work for modern keys with technology integrated into them. Keys with this type of technology have a transponder in the key head that communicates with the car to confirm that it is a genuine key. These types of keys are much harder to duplicate, and are typically only done at the dealership or by an authorized automotive locksmith.
If you're experiencing issues with your car's key fob, the first step is to replace the battery. Most hardware stores sell the batteries needed for less than $10. Some auto specialists and dealers may be able provide an unpaid battery if you are unable to locate the correct battery.
A stolen or lost car key can be a big problem, especially if you're stuck on the side of the road. Many people will try to solve the problem themselves by trying to copy a key with an instrument for cutting keys or simply using the file. These methods are not compatible with modern car keys however. Most of them require precision programming and copying by a qualified professional, like a technician, locksmith or car dealership professional.
Car dealerships offer the lowest prices for replacing a key however they also charge some of the highest fees. It is important to check with your insurance company to determine if they cover the cost of replacing keys to your car.