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The Cost of Replacing Car Keys

It's not too big of a deal to lose your car keys. They can be quickly and inexpensively replaced. The cost will vary depending on the key type, technology, and where you receive the replacement.

Classic keys that are traditional can be duplicated at most hardware stores for less than $10, or at an locksmith for vehicles if you have evidence of ownership (registration or title). The more sophisticated and high-tech keys are more expensive to replace, however they can be replaced at the dealership if needed.

Basic Key Fobs for Keys

Most cars built after the 1990s are equipped with key fobs that can lock and unlock doors by pressing buttons. Most are standard and relatively inexpensive to replace, but the most advanced fobs could cost up to $1000 for a replacement key for car cost installed by a dealer.

In some instances, dealerships may be the only place to replace a key fob since they're typically the only ones to have the costly equipment required to program a new key fob. This is especially relevant for European cars. An Audi or BMW key fob, for instance, comes with a color touchscreen that allows the driver to switch on and off the car's navigation system or access other information. These features, when combined with advanced security systems which can detect the fob's location if it has been moved from its normal location, lost car keys replacement cost make them more difficult to duplicate than more basic fobs manufactured by Nissan or Ford.

You can also purchase fobs replacements from some hardware stores and auto parts retailers for much less than at the dealership. If you are unable to locate the right type of fob that you require for your vehicle, alternatives from the aftermarket work with most models and can be programmed with a code supplied by the manufacturer in the owner's manual. You should also look into your car's warranty, insurance policy or roadside assistance to determine if it covers the cost to replace car key of a replacement car keys cost uk.

Transponder Keys

While basic keys and fobs are cheap to replace, the cost for a standard key with transponder chip is substantially higher. The chips, which are often called mini-circuits are what make your car recognize the key and start.

The reason for this is that these chips, along with a special code disarm the vehicle's immobilizer, allowing the engine to run. This technology is used in all cars built after 2001. Hardware stores can make mechanical copies, but they cannot duplicate the RF chip molded into your current key. That's why you have to go to a dealership for an expensive new key fob and an even more costly programming service.

Many people go to their dealership if they lose their keys. They may not realize that a reputable locksmith may create the same key for Lost Car Keys Replacement Cost less.

A locksmith who is certified can reprogram your transponder key. For this locksmith, they will require the special equipment used by dealerships, but it is available in many automotive stores. You'll also need a duplicate of the lost or stolen key, along with the owner's manual. Without these, the process could be more lengthy and the final price could be a bit more expensive than if you go to a dealer.

High-Tech Keys

Certain cars require key fobs with electronic signals that open doors and start engines. Replacing them is a bit more complex than creating an ordinary transponder key, and can cost you hundreds of dollars.

Keys of this kind are usually created by dealerships, however a locksmith can also make keys. You'll have to bring the key fob along and show evidence of ownership, such as the registration or title of the car. Most locksmiths will charge less than the dealer.

The cost of a new key is largely determined by whether there is an existing key that can be copied. Keys older than that don't have chips and can be copied at the local hardware store for about $10. A modern VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) key has a small resistor in it that needs to match the car's computer. They is available for copying for $20 to $45.

However, there's an exception. The auto industry funds a trade group called the National Automated Vehicles Task Force. The group maintains a key code database and allows dealers and Locksmiths to duplicate keys made after 2000 for VW, Mercedes BMW and Porsche. The Center for Auto Safety, an advocacy group for the consumer led by Ralph Nader, has petitioned the Federal Trade Commission to investigate automakers for keeping key codes secret and charging expensive costs to replace key codes.

Key Replacement at the Dealership

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing the car keys was not a major issue. If you lost your keys you could obtain a replacement from the dealer without too much hassle. However, modern cars are fitted with more and more technology, and that means the process of replacing your car keys is more complex and expensive.

You can go to your local locksmith for basic bladed keys, or a transponder key. They can typically cut a new key for less than $10. However, if you own a switchblade key or a high-tech smart key, your best option is to call roadside assistance and have your vehicle towed by the dealer. You'll need your documents of ownership with you and you may need to wait for several days until the dealership has the key in stock.

If you've lost car keys replacement cost (click here to read) a simple bladed key, a switchblade key or a sophisticated smart key, GEICO can help you get back on the road again with our 24/7 Roadside Assistance service. Note down your vehicle identification number (VIN) which is typically found on the dashboard of your car or on your insurance card. The VIN will be needed to order the right key and have it programmed to your vehicle. Keep a spare in a safe location.