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 use a locksmith. If you have a dealer, it is best to contact them. The dealer will charge a little more but the replacement will be cheaper. Technician Losing keys to your car is an emotional experience, and If you own an remote key fob it could be expensive. Getting a replacement key can cost anywhere from $25 to $450, depending on the make and model of your car. The cost of a key will be influenced by the type of key you have as well as the dealer from whom you purchase it from. You can either employ a locksmith or go to the dealership for your car to purchase new keys. Both alternatives are different, but the dealer option is typically the most expensive. Locksmiths are usually able to cut and program a traditional key which isn't a fob. Modern car keys include chips that link up with your vehicle whenever you use it to unlock or start the engine. They require a more complex process to duplicate and will cost more to replace. A basic transponder will cost around $150. A laser-cut version, which is more difficult to duplicate, will cost you around $200. If you own a more advanced key, for instance the switchblade key found in a key fob, or a smart key, you'll need to visit a dealer for the replacement. The majority of locksmiths do not have the equipment to replicate these types of keys, so you'll require them to be ordered from the dealer. This can take several days, and you won't be in a position to drive until the key is delivered. Keeping your keys from getting lost is the most effective way to avoid any extra costs. Keep a spare in your purse or glove box and utilizing an electronic device to track your keys. Call the police immediately if you have lost your car keys. You should not try to force entry into the car as this may result in an insurance claim, or even a claim for theft. Insurance companies can also be concerned in the event that you break windows or hang wires. It is difficult to convince them that the car belongs to you. Dealership Many people have lost their keys to their car at one point or another. If they fell into another dimension or your cat flushed them in the toilet Losing your keys is a constant pain. Replacing them, however, could be a major expense in your budget. The cost of replacing keys can vary based on the type of vehicle you own and the type of key you own. Typically, metal keys can be duplicated at locksmiths or other third-party workshops, but most modern vehicles come with transponder keys with specialization that have to be programmed by a dealer in order to function correctly. Dealers charge between $500 to $1,000 to replace and reprogram these keys. Although that might seem costly however, you can lower the costs by signing up to an extensive key replacement program. These programs charge a monthly cost that includes replacement of keys that are eligible and remote transponders, but not valet keys in the event that they are lost or damaged. Some programs offer the possibility of a free key replacement each year. These programs are usually provided by car dealers as an added benefit to their bumper-tobumper warranty or extended warranty. You may also locate them through reputable companies who specialize in roadside assistance. If you lose a transponder or an all-in-one laser-cut key and you're not able to replace it, you'll need your vehicle town to the dealer for them to replace it. They'll need to purchase the new key and pair it with your vehicle, a process that can take days to complete. To avoid having to pay the full amount to replace the key, be sure to keep a spare on hand. It is also important to note down the VIN number in case you lose it. You can locate the VIN on your car's documentation, dashboard or door jamb. If you prefer, you can contact the manufacturer of your vehicle or a GEICO agent for assistance in finding the VIN. GEICO Roadside Assistance can tow your vehicle to a certified repair facility. The GEICO app offers this service for no cost. Independent Locksmith Key replacement for cars is a big expense that most people aren't prepared for. If you lose your keys, you need to be aware of the price. You can expect to pay a lot of money if you go through the dealership, but it is also possible to find affordable solutions through third-party vendors. It's a good idea to make an extra key and store it safely in case you're worried about losing yours. You can employ an independent locksmith or dealership to do this, but you'll likely need to wait until the process is completed. Some businesses offer an emergency service, however this could be more expensive. The cost of replacing a car key will differ based on the kind of car you own and the features of your car. A standard key made of metal can usually be copied at a hardware store for less than $10 however a transponder, or "smart" key that connects to your car through radio transmitters will cost significantly more. In addition, if your car was built within the past decade or so it is likely to have a key fob remote that needs to be programmed to work with your car. Many locksmiths are equipped to cut car keys however, not all have the necessary blanks for each model and make. They also don't all have the capability to program a brand new car key, particularly for high-end models that use specialized keys. The time of the day you require the car keys is another factor that affects the cost. Locksmiths generally work during regular hours, which means that you'll pay more if you need the key in an emergency outside of these times. The location of your home could influence the cost of a replacement for your car key. You'll probably pay more if you're in an area that is remote. Insurance can pay for the replacement of keys to your car in certain cases. Check with your insurer to find out if you're covered. In certain cases the cost of replacing might be covered under the warranty on your vehicle and/or roadside assistance. Roadside Assistance The term"roadside assistance" refers to the services that aid motorists or motorcyclists stuck on the side of the highway. This service is provided by car associations, departments of transportation or vehicle insurance companies. The employees of the company will respond to the call and check the vehicle or motorbike to determine the type of repairs that need to be completed. If you require a replacement key, the company may charge a fee to provide one. It is important to to duplicate your car key. This is usually done professionally at a locksmith shop or with the aid of a key duplication device. The methods used to duplicate old mechanical keys don't work with modern keys with technology built-in. They come with a transponder in the head of the key that communicates with your car to confirm it's a valid key. They are more difficult to duplicate and are generally only done by a dealership or a licensed locksmith. The first thing you should do when your car key fob is not working correctly is to replace the batteries. Most hardware stores carry the batteries needed for less than $10. If you are unable to locate the correct battery, some dealers or auto experts might be able to supply one for free. A stolen or lost key can be a huge problem, particularly if you're stuck on the side of the road. Many people attempt to solve the issue themselves by trying to copy the key using the aid of a key cutting machine or simply using an image file. These methods are not compatible with modern car keys, however. The majority of them require precise programming and copying by an expert such as a technician locksmith or professional from a car dealership. Car dealerships have the lowest cost for replacing keys however, they also charge some of the highest costs. It is important to check with your insurance provider to see whether they cover the cost of replacing keys to your car.