How Much Does It Cost For Car Key Replacement?

If you've lost the car key, there are a few alternatives to replace it. Locksmiths are the most affordable solution.

If you have a dealership you can contact them. The dealer will charge a little more but the replacement will be cheaper.

Technician

Losing your car keys can be a stressful experience and when you have an electronic key fob that can be used as a remote it could be costly. The cost of a replacement key may cost of a replacement car key from $25 to $450, depending on the make and model of your car. The type of key you own as well as the dealer you decide to get it from, will affect the cost of your key.

You can employ locksmiths to change the keys to your car or can visit a car dealership to purchase a brand new set. Both options have different costs and the dealer option is typically the most expensive. Locksmiths typically cut and program a traditional key, which isn't an fob.

Modern car keys include a chip which connects to your vehicle when you use them to unlock or start it. These keys are more difficult to duplicate and cost more to replace. A basic transponder key will cost around $150, whereas the laser-cut version that is harder to duplicate will run around $200.

If you have a more advanced key, such as a switchblade key in a key fob or a smart key, you'll need to visit the dealer for the replacement. Most locksmiths do not have the equipment necessary to duplicate keys like these. You'll have to purchase them from the dealer. This can take a couple of days and you will not be able to use your vehicle until they arrive.

The best way to avoid the extra expense of losing your car keys is to avoid them from getting 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, since this could result in an insurance claim, or even a theft claim. In addition breaking windows or using wire hangers can raise red flags with insurance companies and make it harder to convince them that you are the legitimate owner of the vehicle.

Dealership

The majority of people have lost their keys at some time or another. Losing your keys could be a real hassle regardless of whether they fell into another dimension or were flushed down the toilet by the cat. The replacement of them will certainly put a dent in your budget.

The cost of a replacement car key of replacing a key at the dealership can vary depending on the type of key you've got and your vehicle model. Locksmiths and third-party workshops can easily duplicate regular keys made of metal. However, many modern vehicles have specialized transponder keys that must be programmed by the dealer to work.

For these types of keys, the dealer will charge anywhere from $500 to $1000 to replace and reprogram. Although that might seem costly, you can reduce the costs by signing up to a comprehensive key replacement program. These programs cost a monthly fee that covers replacement of eligible key and remote transponders, but not valet keys, if they're lost or damaged. Some even offer one qualifying key replacement per year for no additional cost.

These programs are often offered by auto dealers as an additional service to their bumper-tobumper warranty or extended warranty. They are also available at reputable roadside assistance firms.

If you lose a transponder key or an all-in-one laser-cut key and you're not able to replace it, you'll need your vehicle taken to the dealership in order for them to replace it. The dealership must order the key and car key replacement pair it with your car this can take a few days.

Keep a spare key handy to save yourself the cost of a replacement. Also, you should note the VIN number in case you lose it. The VIN can be located on your vehicle's documentation, the dashboard or the 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 towing your vehicle to a certified repair shop. It's completely free to join and available on the GEICO mobile application.

Independent Locksmith

Car key replacement is a major expense that most people aren't prepared for. It's important to understand what the cost is before you lose your keys. You can expect to spend an enormous amount if you go to the dealership. However, third-party suppliers may offer affordable solutions.

It's a good idea create an additional key and keep it in a safe place in case you're worried about losing yours. You can do this with an independent locksmith or dealership, but you'll likely have to wait for the service to be completed. Some locksmiths offer a 24 hour service, but it could be expensive.

The cost of replacing a car key can vary based on the kind of car you have and its features. A standard key made of metal is usually available at the hardware store for less than $10, while a transponder or "smart" key that connects to your car via radio transmitters will cost significantly more. If your car was made in the last decade, it could have an old key fob that needs to be reprogrammed to work with your car.

While a lot of locksmiths have tools to cut keys for cars however, not all have the appropriate blanks for every brand and model. Not all have the technology to program a new car key, especially for high-end models that have specialized keys.

The time of day you need the car key is another factor that affects the price. You'll pay more for an emergency key when it's outside of the normal hours of many locksmiths. The place of your residence can influence the cost of a replacement for your car key. You'll be charged more if your home is in a remote area.

In certain cases the replacement of your car key may be covered by insurance. Check with your insurer to find out if you're covered. In some cases the cost of replacing might be covered under the vehicle's warranty and/or roadside assistance.

Roadside Assistance

The term roadside assistance refers to services that help motorists or motorcyclists stuck on the side of the road. This kind of service is provided by transportation departments, automobile associations, or insurance companies for vehicles. The company will send an employee to inspect the vehicle or motorcycle and determine if repairs are needed. If the need for a replacement key arises and the company is able to charge a fee for the supply of one.

It is essential to be able to duplicate the car key. This is usually done professionally whether in a locksmith shop or with an instrument for key duplication. The methods employed to duplicate the older mechanical keys are not compatible with modern keys with technology built into. These keys include a transponder inside the head of the key that communicates with your vehicle to confirm that it's a legitimate key. These types of keys are more difficult to duplicate, and are typically made at the dealership or by a licensed automotive locksmith.

The first thing to do when your car key fob isn't working correctly is to replace the batteries. The procedure is fairly quick and easy and the majority of hardware stores sell the necessary batteries for less than $10. Some auto dealers and specialists may be able to offer an unpaid battery in case you're unable to find the right one.

A lost or stolen key can cause a lot of hassle, especially if you're stuck on the side of the road. Many people try to fix the problem by copying a car key using a key-cutting machine or a file. These methods won't work with modern car keys however. Most of them require precise programming and copying by a certified professional, such as a technician car dealership professional or locksmith.

Car dealerships have the lowest cost for replacing keys however, they also charge some of the highest fees. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to see if they cover the cost of replacing a car key.