How Much Does It Cost to Replace Lost Car Keys?

The loss of your car keys could be a huge inconvenience. There are several ways to replace them without costing you a fortune.

The most commonly used alternative is to call the dealer from whom you purchased your vehicle. However, this can be costly, particularly when you're located in a remote location. Other options include roadside assistance and auto locksmiths.

The type of key

There are a variety of car keys. The type of key you've got will affect the amount it will cost to replace it. The mechanical type that fits inside the ignition cylinder is the most popular type of key. Locksmiths can replace this kind of key for a low price. The other common type of car key is the remote key that allows you to lock and start the car from some distance. These keys can be more expensive to replace when compared to traditional mechanical keys.

Key fobs are another type of car keys that includes electronic and metal components. This type of key cannot be copied by locksmiths or even the dealer. If you lose this kind of key, it will have to be programmed by a dealership, which can run up to $200.

In addition to the cost of a replacement key, you could also need to pay for towing or other costs if your vehicle is disabled. It is recommended to have a spare key on hand. Many locksmiths provide an extra key service that is cheaper than having a dealer program your key.

Many people also find that it is helpful to keep their keys to their car on a lanyard that they wear around their necks. This can aid them in remembering to look for them frequently and keep them from being lost. If you don't want to purchase a lanyard, consider putting a strong key chain to your key fob, which will act as an alert.