20 Trailblazers Lead The Way In Cost For Car Key Replacement
How Much Does It Cost For Car Key Replacement?
There are several options available for those who lose their car keys. The most cost-effective option is to employ a locksmith.
If you own a dealership, it is best to contact them. The process of getting a replacement through the dealer can be more expensive, but it's usually the cheapest.
Technician
Losing your car keys can be a stressful experience and if you have an remote key fob it could be costly. A replacement key can range from $25 to $450, based on the car's make and model. The type of key you own, as well as the dealer you decide to purchase it from, will affect the cost of your key.
You can get a locksmith to change your car keys or you could visit a dealership to purchase a new set. Both options are different, but the dealer option tends to be the most expensive. Locksmiths typically cut and program a traditional key, which is not a fob.
Modern car keys include chips that link up with your vehicle whenever 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 key is around $150, while the laser-cut version that is more difficult to duplicate will cost around $200.
If you own a more advanced key, such as a switchblade key in a key fob or a smart key, you'll have to visit a dealer to purchase a replacement. Most locksmiths do not have the tools to duplicate these kinds of keys, so you'll need to order them by the dealer. This can take a few days, and you will not be able to access your vehicle until the keys 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 purse or glove box and using an electronic device to track your keys.
Call the police immediately if you have lost your car keys. Do not try to force entry into the car, as this could lead to an insurance claim, or even a theft claim. Insurance companies can also be concerned when you break windows or hang wires. It is difficult to convince them that the vehicle belongs to you.
Dealership
The majority of people have lost their keys at some time or another. The loss of keys can be a real pain regardless of whether they fell into another dimension or were flushed down the toilet by the cat. Replacing them can really put a dent in your budget.
The cost of replacing a key at a dealership can vary depending on the type of key you've got and your vehicle model. Typically, metal keys are easy to duplicate at locksmiths or workshops of third-party companies however, most modern vehicles have transponder keys with specialization that have to be programmed by a dealer in order to work properly.
For those types of keys, the dealer could charge anywhere from $500 and $1000 to replace and reprogram. While that may seem expensive however, you can lower the cost by signing up for a comprehensive key replacement program. These programs charge an annual fee that includes replacement of keys eligible for replacement and remote transponders (but not valet keys) if they are lost or damaged. Some programs even provide one qualifying key replacement per year at no cost.
A majority of these programs are available at dealerships, which often offer them as an extra option to their bumper-tobumper or extended warranty coverage. 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 dealership in order to have them replace it. The dealership will have to order the key and pair it with your car, a process which can take a few days.
To avoid paying the full cost to replace the key, ensure you keep a spare on hand. If you lose your VIN it's recommended to note it down. The VIN can be located on your vehicle's documentation, the dashboard or the door jamb. You can also contact the manufacturer of your car or a GEICO representative for assistance. GEICO Roadside Assistance can tow your vehicle to a certified repair facility. The GEICO app provides this service for free.
Independent Locksmith
Car key replacement is a big expense that a lot of people aren't prepared for. If you lose your keys, you need to be aware of the price. You can anticipate to pay a lot if you use the dealership. However, third-party providers might offer solutions that are affordable.
It's a good idea make an extra key and store it safely in case you're worried about losing yours. You can do this with an independent locksmith or dealership, but you'll be waiting for the process to be completed. Some companies offer a 24 hour emergency service, but it could be more expensive.
The cost of car key replacement can vary based on the kind of car you have 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 to your car via radio transmitter will cost a lot more. In addition, if your car was built in the past decade or so, it likely has a key fob remote that must be programmed to work with your vehicle.
While many locksmiths have the equipment to cut the car key however, not all have the appropriate blanks for every brand and model. Not all locksmiths have the technology necessary to program a car key. This is particularly the case for models that have specialized keys.
The time of the day you need the car key is another factor that affects the cost. You'll be charged more for an emergency key when it's outside of the normal hours of many locksmiths. The place of your residence can affect the cost of a replacement car key. You'll pay more for replacement if your residence is located in a remote location.
In certain instances, car key replacement can be covered by insurance. Contact your insurance company to see if you are covered. In other situations the replacement cost could be covered under the vehicle's warranty or roadside assistance additional add-ons.
Roadside Assistance
The term"roadside assistance" refers to the services that aid motorists and motorcyclists stuck on the side of the highway. This service is provided by the automobile associations, departments of transportation or car insurance companies. The employees of the company will respond to the call and check the vehicle or motorcycle to determine what repairs are required to be made. The company might charge for a replacement key if one is required.
The ability to duplicate your car keys is important. This is typically done professionally either in the locksmith shop or using a key duplication device. However the methods used to copy older mechanical keys aren't suitable for modern keys that have technology embedded in them. These keys include a transponder inside the head of the key, which communicates with your car to verify it's a valid key. These keys are harder to duplicate and are typically only done by a dealer or a licensed locksmith.
The first thing you should do if your car key fob isn't working properly is to replace the batteries. Most hardware stores carry the batteries needed for less than $10. Some dealers and auto specialists may be able provide a free battery if you are unable to locate the correct battery.
A lost or stolen key can cause a lot of issue, especially if stuck on the side of the road. Many people will try to solve the problem on their own by copying the key using an instrument for cutting keys or simply using a file. These methods will not work with modern car keys however. They require precision programming and copying by a qualified professional, such as a technician, locksmith or car dealership professional.
In the majority of cases, car dealerships offer the most affordable rates for replacing keys for cars, but they also have the highest fees for service. Contact your insurance company to determine if the cost of replacing keys is covered.