How Much Does Car Key Replacement Cost?

The days when car keys were simple and relatively inexpensive to replace are long gone. Today, most cars use a transponder chip in the key head that communicates with the immobilizer in the vehicle to confirm that it’s the proper key and allows the car to start. This technology adds a layer of security but also makes the replacement process significantly more involved and expensive.

There are a few things that can impact the overall cost of Car Key Replacement. First, the type of key that’s been lost or stolen will affect how much you’ll pay to have it replaced. If you have a traditional mechanical key, a locksmith or auto dealer can simply cut you a new blank and you’re done – this will usually cost under $50. But most people will have a key fob with a switchblade or another type of key that has a transponder in it – these are much harder to duplicate and can run you up to $150 or more to get a new one.

Depending on the car model, you’ll also need to factor in whether or not it requires reprogramming. This can be an additional cost to consider, as it may require a trip to the dealership and possibly an extra charge for reprogramming. For instance, some cars have specific requirements for reprogramming, such as pressing a certain sequence of buttons while the engine is running. Each car and each dealer is different, so check your owner’s manual for instructions.

If you have a spare, you can usually save some money on the cost of replacing your key by going to a locksmith or auto dealer that’s familiar with your brand and will have the right information for the specific key you need to make. This is also an important time to remember that many insurance policies cover the cost of car key replacement as part of their comprehensive or additional coverage options.

For more information on how to get the most out of your coverage, read our article on How To Ensure You Have The Best Coverage For Your Car.

If you lose your keys, the best thing to do is try to retrace your steps and find them – this is often all it takes. If you can’t, then the next step is to call roadside assistance and have a tow truck take you to your dealership to order a replacement key. It’s important to understand how the dealer works and what you’ll be charged for before you go this route, though, as it can be more expensive than a locksmith or independent auto shop. In addition, the dealer will probably require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title for your vehicle. This is a good idea anyway, since some dealerships have strict guidelines about who they will work with to create a replacement key. This is to protect them from scams and fraud. This is a common problem in the industry, and the dealerships have developed strict protocols to help them prevent it.

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