How Much Does It Cost to Replace Lost Car Keys?
The loss of your car keys could be a huge inconvenience. There are a variety of ways to replace them without breaking the bank.
The most commonly used option is to contact the dealer where you purchased the vehicle. This can be expensive especially if your car is located in an area that is remote. Other options include roadside assistance as well as auto locksmiths.
The kind of key
There are many different kinds of keys for cars. The cost of replacing your keys will depend on the type of key you have. The mechanical type that fits inside the ignition cylinder is the most common kind of key. This kind of key can be replaced at a relatively low cost by a locksmith. The remote key can be used to lock the vehicle and then start it from an extended distance. These keys are more expensive to replace as compared to the mechanical key.
Key fobs are a different type of car keys that includes an electronic chip and a metal. This kind of key is not easily duplicated by a locksmith or even the dealer. This type of key will need to be programmed by a dealership. This could cost up to $200.
You may also need to pay towing charges or other charges if you are not able to drive your vehicle. The best method to avoid this is having a spare key readily available. Many locksmiths provide an extra key service which will cost you less than the cost to get the dealer to program your lost key.
Some people find it beneficial to wear their car keys around their necks. This can help them remember to look for them often and prevent them from being lost. If you don't have enough money to purchase a lanyard your key fob or lanyard at all, attach a heavy keychain. This will serve as an incentive.
Some people lose their keys while driving. This is especially risky in the case of an automatic transmission. If you're in this situation contact a towing service immediately and have the car be towed to an authorized dealer. In some cases, the dealer will be able to create a replacement key without needing to reset the ignition cylinder. In some instances the dealer may be able to provide you with an alternative key without having to rekey the ignition cylinder.
The make and model of your vehicle
Losing your car key or fob isn't an enjoyable experience. There are fortunately, a variety of ways to obtain a replacement car key or fob. You can call roadside assistance or an auto locksmith, or visit your dealer. Many of these options will help you replace your key quickly and at a reasonable cost. The type of key you own can also play a part in how much you pay to get it replaced.
Traditional keys are typically the most affordable to replace. They can be purchased at many locksmiths and hardware stores for around $20, though this may vary slightly depending on where you live and the distance the locksmith is. Transponder keys are more expensive because they contain a computer chip that must be connected to the car's computer. They range from $75-$200 and include cutting and programming services. Smart keys, which incorporate proximity sensors and are often coupled with push-to-start ignitions are more expensive.
In addition to the cost 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 secure and safe to ensure that you don't lose it. You can purchase keys to carry your spare so you have it in your pocket.
It is crucial to know the differences between a car dealership and an automotive lock and a third-party provider of car keys when you need a new one. By understanding car lost key replacement between these three providers, you can save money, time and hassle by selecting the most appropriate choice for your particular situation.
If your key is a traditional car key or an ordinary key fob, you can typically have it replaced by a locksmith local to you for about $100. If your car has keys that have a remote transmitter, or a key coupled with an ignition that requires a push to start, you'll have to visit a dealership. The process could take several days because the dealership has to purchase the key and connect it to the computer system in your car.
The location of your car
It is a stressful experience to lose your car keys. With a little planning and knowledge, you can reduce the costs. To begin, you'll have to know what type of key your vehicle has. Then, you can be sure that the locksmith has the necessary information to create an alternative key. This will help you avoid the cost of unnecessary work.
Metal keys made of traditional design are typically the least expensive to replace. Locksmiths can easily create keys from them. They are used for locking and starting the car. They may cost $20 or less, depending on the car model.
Keyless ignitions come with proximity sensors which allow drivers to unlock their vehicle and then start it by pressing the button. These keys, also referred to as Smart Keys, can be obtained by providing the VIN from the registration or title of the vehicle. Then, you will need to pay a fee to reprogram the immobilizer system.
Another factor that affects the cost of a lost car key replacement is the location at which it was lost. The tow truck will have to travel a long distance to get to you. In addition, if you lose your car keys in a remote location, it may be more difficult to locate it and will be more expensive.
Whenever you lose your car key the first thing you should do is to try to locate it. Follow your steps back and remember what you were doing when you lost it. If you are able to remember, you'll be in a position to locate it quickly.
If you're unable to locate the key, consider calling AAA for assistance at the roadside. You can also contact your local dealer to request a replacement key from the factory. Be aware that the dealer may charge a premium to provide this service.
When you are ready to purchase a replacement car key, first contact your insurance company to inquire about the policy that will cover. Most insurance companies will pay the cost of purchasing a new key for their customers, which will save you money.
The locksmith's cost
Many people have been through the dread of losing their car keys. It is not impossible to replace your car keys, and the process is relatively inexpensive. Based on the type of key you have however, the cost will vary greatly. In certain instances you might need to show proof of ownership to the locksmith to get an additional key. This can include documents like your car registration or driver's license. These documents are useful in the event that you lose your keys.
The type of key you are using will also affect the price. For example traditional keys are less expensive to replace than keys with transponder chips or key fobs. These key types require the help of an auto locksmith or dealer to program the computer in the car to recognize the new key. It is important to have a spare key, even if your vehicle is an automatic.
Always choose a professional locksmith who is reputable to replace your keys. They will be able cut the correct key, and provide quality service at a reasonable price. They will also have tools to handle various keys, allowing them to locate the correct key for your vehicle. Moreover they will be able to insert the new key in your vehicle without damaging the lock.
Contacting a roadside assistance provider will also help you save money on your car key replacement. These companies often have locksmiths on hand who can assist with lost keys to your car for a small cost. This is a less expensive option than going to the dealership and also save money on towing costs.
The last factor that can affect the cost of replacing your lost keys to your car is the location of your vehicle. If you reside in an area that is remote the cost will be higher since the locksmith will need to travel further to get to your vehicle. In addition, they could have to pay extra for the use of automated key cutting machines and programming equipment.