How Much Does It Cost to Replace Lost Car Keys?
It can be a major inconvenience to lose your car keys. There are a variety of ways you can replace keys without spending a lot of money.
The most common alternative is to call the dealer from whom you purchased your vehicle. This can be costly, especially if your vehicle is located in a remote location. Alternatives include auto locksmiths and roadside assistance.
The kind of key
There are a variety of car keys. The cost of replacing your key will depend on the type you have. The mechanical type that fits inside the ignition cylinder is the most commonly used kind of key. This kind of key is replaceable at a relatively low cost by locksmiths. The remote key lets you lock the vehicle and start it from the distance. These keys are more expensive to replace compared to the mechanical key.
Key fobs are a different type of car key that includes a metal and electronic chip. This type of key cannot be copied by locksmiths or even the dealer. This type of key has to be programmed at a dealership. This can cost up to $200.
You may also have to pay towing charges or other fees if you are unable to drive your vehicle. It is best to have a spare available. Numerous locksmiths offer a spare key service, that will cost less than the cost to pay for the dealer to program your lost key.
Many people also find that it is helpful to keep their car keys on a lanyard that they wear around their necks. This can aid them in remembering to look for them frequently and stop them from being lost. If you don't have the money to purchase a lanyard for your key fob, or even a lanyard at all, put a keychain on it. This can serve as a reminder.
Some people lose their keys while driving. This is especially dangerous if the key is for an automatic transmission. If you're in this situation you should contact a towing firm immediately and have your car towed to a dealer. In some cases, a dealer will make you a new key without needing to rekey your ignition cylinder. In some instances the dealer will be able to provide you with a replacement key without needing to reset the ignition cylinder.
What is the make and model of your vehicle?
It's never a pleasant experience to lose your car keys. There are fortunately, a variety of ways to get an alternative car key or fob. You can call roadside assistance or an auto locksmith or visit your dealer. These options will allow you to replace your key quickly and affordably. The type of key you own will also play an important role in the price you will pay to have it replaced.
The most affordable keys to replace are traditional keys. Most hardware stores and locksmiths offer them for around $20. However, this price can vary based on where you live or the distance to a locksmith. Transponder keys are more expensive, as they contain a chip which must be connected to the vehicle's computer system. These keys cost between $75 and $200, which includes the cutting and programming services. Smart keys, which include proximity sensors and are usually paired with push-to-start ignitions, are also more expensive.
In addition to the price of the new key, you'll have to think about whether or not you have an additional. If you have one, it's a good idea to keep it somewhere safe and secure, so that you don't lose it again. You can buy keys to carry your spare so you have it available.
If you're in need of a new car key, it's essential to understand the difference between a dealer or an automotive locksmith and third-party providers of car keys. By knowing the distinctions between these three options and a third-party provider, you'll be in a position to save time, money and hassle.
If lost my car keys have an ordinary car key or key fob that is about 100 dollars, a locksmith can replace it. If, however, your vehicle has keys that use an electronic remote transmitter or a key that's paired with a push-to-start ignition you'll need to visit the dealership. The process could take several days as the dealership must order the key and pair it with the computer system of your car.
Your vehicle's location
The loss of your car keys is always a stressful experience. With a little planning and knowledge, you can cut down on the costs. In the beginning, you'll need to know what kind of key your vehicle uses. You should then make sure that the locksmith is armed with the correct information to create a new key. You'll save money on unnecessary work.
Metal keys are the easiest to replace. Locksmiths can easily make keys from them. They are used to lock and start the car. They may cost $20 or less, depending on the car model.
Keyless ignitions are equipped with proximity sensors that allow the driver to unlock the vehicle and then start it by simply pressing the button. These keys, also known as Smart Keys, can be obtained by providing the VIN from the title or registration of the vehicle. You will then be charged a fee to change the immobilizer.
Another aspect that affects the price of a replacement for a lost car key is the location where it was lost. The tow truck has to travel a distance to get to you. In addition, if lose your car key in a remote location it might be more difficult to find it, and will be more expensive.
The first thing you should do when you lose your car keys is to try and find them. Follow your steps back and remember what you were doing when you lost it. If you are able to remember, you will be able to locate it quickly.
If you are unable to locate the key, contact AAA for roadside help. You can also contact your local dealership to purchase a new key from the factory. Be aware that the dealer may charge a fee to provide this service.
Contact your insurance company prior to purchasing a replacement key in order to learn about the coverage available. The majority of insurance companies will cover a new car key and save you money.
The locksmith's cost
The loss of your car keys is a typical issue for a lot of people. Fortunately, it is not impossible to get replacements and the process can be affordable. Depending on the type of key you own however, the cost will vary greatly. In some cases the locksmith may require proof of ownership before issuing keys. This can include documents such as your vehicle registration or driver's license. These documents are useful in the event that you lose your keys.
The kind of car key you have also affects the cost. For instance, traditional keys are cheaper to replace than keys that have key fobs or transponder chips. Keys with these types of locks require the assistance of an auto locksmith or dealer to program the car's computer to recognize the new key. This is why it's beneficial to keep a spare car key in hand, even if you are driving a vehicle with a push-to-start feature.
It is recommended to choose a reputable locksmith to provide your key replacement services. They'll be able to cut the correct key, and will provide top-quality service at reasonable prices. They will also have tools to deal with a variety of different keys, so they can find the right one for your particular vehicle. They'll also be able to put the new key in your car without damaging its lock.
Contacting a roadside service provider can also help you save money on car key replacement. These companies often have locksmiths on hand who can assist with lost car keys for a small fee. This can be a more affordable alternative than visiting the dealership and also save money on towing costs.
The location of your car can also impact the price. If you live located in an area that is remote, the cost of the service will be higher because the locksmith will have to travel farther than normal to reach your vehicle. In addition, they could need to pay an additional fee to use automated key cutting machines as well as programming equipment.