How Much Does It Cost For Car Key Replacement?

If you've lost your car keys There are a number of options to replace it. The most affordable option is to use a locksmith.

If you have a dealership, it is best to contact them. The dealer may cost a bit more, however, the replacement keys car is typically cheaper.

Mechanical

Losing your car key can be stressful and expensive, especially if you use remote. The cost of a replacement key may cost anywhere from $25 to $450, based on the make and model of your vehicle. The type of key you have and the dealer you choose to purchase it from will affect the cost of your key.

You can hire a locksmith to repair the keys to your car or could visit a dealership to purchase a brand new set. Both options come with different costs and the dealer option is typically the most expensive. Locksmiths typically cut and program a traditional key, which isn't a fob.

Modern car keys have a chip which connects to your vehicle whenever you use them to unlock it or start it. These keys are more difficult to duplicate and cost more to replace. A basic transponder key is around $150, whereas one that's laser-cut and more difficult to duplicate will cost around $200.

If you need a replacement for a more advanced key, such as a switchblade inside the form of a key fob, workshop or a smartkey, you'll have to go to the dealer. The majority of locksmiths don't have the equipment necessary to duplicate these keys. You'll need to purchase them from a dealer. It could take several days, and you won't be able use your vehicle until they arrive.

Keeping your keys from getting lost is the best way to avoid extra costs. Keep a spare in your purse or glove box and utilizing a tracking device for your keys.

If you do lose the keys to your car, be sure to call the police as soon as you can. Do not try to force entry into the car as this may cause an insurance claim or a claim for theft. Insurance companies are also suspicious in the event that you break windows or use wire hangers. It is harder to convince them that the vehicle belongs to you.

Dealership

The majority of people have lost their keys at some time. Whether they slipped into a different dimension or your cat flushed them in the toilet, losing your keys is a constant pain. Replacing keys can be expensive.

The cost of replacing a key at a dealer can differ based on the type of key you've got and the vehicle model. Locksmiths and third-party workshop can easily duplicate regular keys made of metal. However, many modern vehicles come with a transponder keys that must be programmed by the dealer in order to work.

Dealers may charge anything from $500 to $1,000 to replace and reprogram these keys. A comprehensive replacement key program will help you cut costs. These programs offer an annual fee that includes replacement of eligible keys and remote transponders (but not valet keys) if they are damaged or lost. Some programs even provide one qualifying key replacement per year at no additional cost.

These programs are usually offered by car dealers as an extra service to their bumper-tobumper warranty or extended warranty. You may also locate them through reputable companies that specialize in roadside assistance.

You will need to tow your vehicle to a dealer to exchange a lost transponder or an all-in-one key. They will have to order the new key, and then connect it to your vehicle in a process that could take a few days to complete.

Keep a spare key on hand to save yourself the cost of replacing it. If you lose your VIN it's a good idea to record it. The VIN can be found on your car's documentation, on the dashboard or door jamb. Alternatively, you can call your car's manufacturer or an GEICO agent for assistance in finding the VIN. GEICO Roadside Assistance can tow your vehicle to a certified repair facility. It's completely free to join and is available through the GEICO mobile app.

Independent Locksmith

Replacement of car keys is a significant expense that a lot of people aren't prepared for. Before you lose your keys, it's crucial to know the cost. It is possible to pay much if you go through the dealership. However, third-party companies might offer solutions that are affordable.

It's a good idea make an extra key and store it in a secure place if you're concerned about losing yours. It's possible to do this using an independent locksmith or a dealership, but you'll be waiting for the process to be completed. Some businesses offer an emergency service, but this could be more expensive.

The cost to replace the car key may vary depending on the type of vehicle you own and the features. A standard metal key can usually be copied at a hardware store for less than $10, however a transponder, or "smart" key that connects to the car through radio transmitters costs considerably more. If your car was manufactured within the last decade, it could have an old key fob that needs to be programmed with your vehicle.

Many locksmiths are equipped to cut car keys but not all carry the blanks required for each make and model. And not all of them 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 replacing a car key is the time of day that you need the key. You'll be charged more for a emergency key when it's outside of the regular hours of a majority of locksmiths. The location of your home can also affect the cost of a replacement car key. You'll pay more for replacement if your house is in a remote area.

In some cases keys to your car can be covered by insurance. Check with your insurer to determine if you're covered. In some cases the cost of replacement keys for car might be covered under the warranty of your vehicle or roadside assistance.