How Much Does It Cost For Car Key Replacement?
There are several options available if you lose your car keys. Locksmiths are the cheapest solution.
If you own a dealership, it is best to contact them. The dealer will charge a little more, but the replacement will be cheaper.
Technician
The loss of your car keys can be a stressful and costly experience especially if you have remote. Key replacements can cost anywhere from $25 to $450 depending on your car's model and make. The price of a key will be influenced by the type of key that you own and the dealer from whom you purchase it from.
You can employ a locksmith, or go to the car dealership to purchase an entirely new key. Both options have different costs however the dealer option is typically the most expensive. If you own a traditional key that isn't a key fob, you'll typically find a locksmith who can 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. They require a more complicated process to copy and are more expensive to replace. A basic transponder key is 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, for instance a switchblade key in a key fob, or a smart key, you will need to go to the dealership for the replacement. Most locksmiths do not have the tools to replicate these types of keys, so you'll need to have them ordered from a dealer. It could take a few days and you will not be in a position to drive until the key is delivered.
Making sure your keys aren't lost is the best way to avoid additional cost. Consider keeping a spare in your pocket or glove box and using an electronic device to track your keys.
If you do lose your car keys, be sure to contact the police as quickly as possible. Don't try to force entry into the car, since this could result in an insurance claim or even a theft claim. Additionally, breaking windows or hanging wire will raise red flags with insurance companies and make it harder to convince them that you are a legitimate owner of the car.
Dealership
Many people have lost their car keys at one time or another. It doesn't matter if they fell into a different dimension or your cat flushed them in the toilet The loss of keys is always a pain. Replacing them, however, could be a major expense in your budget.
The cost to replace keys can differ based on the model of your vehicle and the type of key that you own. Typically, metal keys can be duplicated at locksmiths or other third-party workshops, but most modern vehicles are equipped with specialized transponder keys that need to be programmed by a dealer in order to work properly.
For these types of keys, the dealer can charge between $500 to $1000 to replace and reprogram. By signing up for a comprehensive replacement key program will help you cut costs. These programs offer a monthly fee which includes replacement of eligible keys and remote transponders (but not valet keys) when they are lost or damaged. Some even offer one qualifying key replacement per year for no additional cost.
These programs are often provided by car dealers as an additional service to their bumper-to-bumper warranty or extended warranty. You might also locate them through reputable companies who specialize in roadside assistance.
If you lose a transponder keys or an all-in-one laser-cut key then you'll have to have your vehicle taken to the dealer for them to replace it. They will have to order the new key and then join it to your vehicle, a process that could take a few days to complete.
Keep car key replacements to save yourself the cost of replacing it. Also, you should note the VIN number in case you lose it. The VIN can be located on the car's documentation, the dashboard or the 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 tow your vehicle to a reputable repair shop. It's free to sign up and is available through the GEICO mobile application.
Independent Locksmith
Many people aren't ready for the expense of replacing the car key. It is important to know the cost before you lose your keys. You can expect to spend a lot if you use the dealership. However, third-party companies might offer solutions that are affordable.
It's a good idea make an extra key and keep it in a safe place in case you're worried about losing yours. You can use an independent locksmith or a dealership to do this, however you will likely have to wait until the service is completed. Some companies have a 24-hour emergency service, but this can be more expensive.
The cost of replacing a car key will differ based on the kind of car you own and its features. A standard metal key is usually available at an hardware store for less than $10, however a transponder, or "smart" key that connects to the car via radio transmitters will cost significantly more. If your car was built in the last decade, it may have a key fob that needs to be programmed with your car.
Many locksmiths are equipped to cut car keys but not all carry the necessary blanks for each make and model. They also don't all have the tools to program a new car key, especially for high-end models that use key codes that are specialized.
Another factor that influences the cost of car key replacement is the time of day that you need the key. Locksmiths generally work during regular hours, which means you'll have to be charged more if you require the key in an emergency situation outside of these hours. The location in which you live will affect the cost of a car key replacement. You'll pay more for replacement if your residence is located in a remote location.
In some cases keys to your car can be covered by insurance. Contact your insurance company to see the coverage you have. In some cases the cost of replacing could be covered by the vehicle's warranty and/or roadside assistance.
Roadside Assistance
The term "roadside assistance" refers to the services that are provided by the Department of Transportation, automobile associations, or car insurance companies for motorcyclists and motorists on the roadside. This type of service is offered by departments of transportation or automobile associations, as well as vehicle insurance providers. The company will send a representative to look over the vehicle or motorcycle and determine if any repairs are required. If the need for a replacement key arises, the company may charge a fee to supply one.
It is crucial to be able to duplicate the car key. This process is usually done by a professional at a locksmith's shop or using a key duplication machine. The methods employed to duplicate the older mechanical keys don't work with modern keys with technology built in. They include a transponder inside the head of the key that communicates with your vehicle to verify it's a valid key. These keys are harder to duplicate and are generally only done by a dealership or licensed locksmith.
If you're experiencing issues with your car's key fob, the first step is to replace the battery. The process is relatively simple and quick, and most hardware stores will sell the required batteries for less than $10. Some dealers and auto specialists may be able to offer the battery for free when you're unable find the right one.
A stolen or lost key can be a huge hassle, especially if you're stuck on the side of the highway. Many people try to solve the problem themselves by copying keys using an instrument for cutting keys or simply using the file. These methods won't work with modern car keys however, and most of them require precise copying and programming by a certified expert such as a locksmith, a car dealership professional or a mechanic.
Car dealerships have the lowest cost for replacing keys however they also charge the highest fees. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to see whether they will cover the cost of replacing the car key.