How Much Does It Cost For Car Key Replacement?
There are many options for those who lose their car keys. Locksmiths are the most affordable solution.
The best option is to call your dealer in case you own one. The dealer may charge a little more however, the replacement is typically cheaper.
Mechanic
Losing keys to your car is stressful, especially if you have an electronic key fob that can be used as a remote it can be costly. The cost of a replacement key may cost between $25 and $450, depending on the model and make of your car. The type of key you own and the dealer you decide to purchase it from will affect the cost of your key.
You can either employ a locksmith or go to the car dealership to purchase a new key. Both options are different, but the dealer option tends to be the most expensive. If you have a traditional key that is not a key fob, you'll typically find a locksmith who can cut and program it for $50.
Modern car keys include an electronic chip that connects with your vehicle when you use it to lock or start the engine. They require a more complicated process to copy and are more expensive to replace. A basic transponder costs around $150. A laser-cut version which is more difficult to duplicate, will cost you about $200.
If you need an alternative to a more sophisticated key, like a switchblade inside the form of a key fob, or a smartkey, you'll need to go to the dealer. Most locksmiths do not have the tools needed to duplicate keys like these. You'll have to purchase them from the dealer. It could take a couple of days and you won't be able use your vehicle until the keys arrive.
Making sure your keys aren't lost is the most effective way to avoid any extra cost. Keep a spare key in your pocket or in the glove box, and think about using a tracking device to locate your keys.
Contact the police immediately if you lose your car keys. Do not attempt to enter the car, as this could cause an insurance claim or a claim for theft. Also breaking automotive car key replacement or using wire hangers can raise red flags with insurance companies and make it more difficult to convince them that you are the legitimate owner of the car.
Dealership
The majority of people have lost their keys at some time. Whether they slipped into a different dimension or the cat flushed them in the toilet, losing your keys is always a pain. Replacing them could be a major expense in your budget.
The cost to replace a key can vary depending on the type of vehicle you own and the type of key you own. Locksmiths and third-party workshops are able to easily duplicate metal regular keys. However, most modern vehicles come with a transponder keys that must be programmed by the dealer to work.
Dealers can charge anywhere from $500 to $1,000 to replace and reprogram these keys. Signing up for a comprehensive replacement key program can help you reduce costs. These programs provide a monthly cost that includes replacement of eligible keys and remote transponders (but not valet keys) if they are damaged or lost. Some programs offer the possibility of a free key replacement each year.
Most of these programs are available at auto dealers, who often offer them as an extra add-on to their bumper-to-bumper or extended warranty coverage. They can also be found at reputable roadside assistance companies.
You'll need bring your vehicle to the dealer to replace a lost transponder or all-in-one key. They will have to order the new key, and then join it to your vehicle in a process that can take days to complete.
To avoid having to pay the full cost for a new key, be sure to keep a spare in your possession. It is also important to note down the VIN number in case you lose it. The VIN can be found on your car's documentation, on the dashboard or door jamb. If you prefer, you can contact the manufacturer of your car or an GEICO agent for help finding it. GEICO Roadside Assistance can tow your vehicle to a certified repair facility. The GEICO app provides this service for no cost.
Independent Locksmith
The majority of people aren't prepared for the cost of replacing keys to their car. Before you lose your keys, you need to know the cost. You can expect to pay a lot of money if you go through the dealership, but it's also possible to find low-cost solutions through third-party providers.
It's a smart idea to create a second key and store it in a secure place in case you're worried about losing yours. 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 have a 24-hour emergency service, however this can be more expensive.
The cost of car key replacement will differ based on the kind of car you own and its features. A standard key made of metal is usually available at an hardware store for less than $10 while a transponder or "smart" key that connects to the car via radio transmitters costs considerably more. If your car was manufactured in the last decade, it may have an old key fob that needs to be reprogrammed in order to work with your vehicle.
Many locksmiths are equipped to cut keys for cars however, not all have the necessary blanks for each model and make. Not all locksmiths have the technology necessary to program a car key. This is especially applicable to high-end models that come with specific keys.
Another factor in the cost of replacing your car keys is the time of day you require the key. Locksmiths generally work during regular hours, which means that you'll pay more if you need the key in a crisis outside of these times. The place of your residence can affect the cost of replacing a car key. You'll probably pay more for an area that is remote.
Insurance might pay for the replacement of a car key in some circumstances. Check with your insurance company to see what coverage you have. In other instances the cost of replacement may be covered under the warranty for your vehicle or roadside assistance additional add-ons.
Roadside Assistance
The term "roadside assistance" refers to the services that are offered by the Department of Transportation, automobile associations, or vehicle insurance providers for motorists and motorcyclists stuck on the sides of the highway. This service is provided by automobile associations, departments of transportation or insurance companies for vehicles. The company's employees will respond to the call and check the vehicle or motorcycle to determine what repairs are required to be done. If a replacement key is needed the company could charge a fee to supply one.
Being able to duplicate your car keys is important. This is usually done professionally at a locksmith shop or by using a key duplication device. However the methods used to duplicate older mechanical keys don't work for modern keys with the latest technology built into the keys. They come with a transponder in the head of the key, which communicates with your vehicle to confirm it's a valid key. These types of keys are very difficult to duplicate and are typically only done at an auto dealership or by a licensed automotive locksmith.
The first thing you need to do if your car key fob is not working properly is to replace the batteries. Most hardware stores carry the batteries required for less than $10. Some dealers and auto specialists may be able to offer a free battery if you are unable to find the right one.
A stolen or lost car key can be a major hassle, especially when you're stranded on the side of the road. Many people attempt to solve the problem themselves by trying to copy a key with a key cutting machine or simply using an image file. These methods will not work with modern car keys however. They require precision programming and copying by an professional like a technician, car dealership professional or locksmith.
Car dealerships offer the lowest costs for replacing a key, but also charge some of the most expensive fees. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to find out if they cover the cost of replacing the car key.