Does AAA Pay for Key Replacement?

When it comes to car key replacement, many car owners wonder whether AAA offers coverage for this service. AAA (American Automobile Association) provides a variety of roadside assistance services, including key-related issues, but the specifics can vary depending on your membership level and the circumstances. Let’s break down the details.

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Key Replacement Services from AAA

AAA provides a number of benefits related to lost or damaged car keys, but it’s important to understand what’s covered and what is not. Here’s an overview of AAA’s services related to car key replacement:

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1. AAA Roadside Assistance for Locked-Out Vehicles

If you’re locked out of your vehicle, AAA can help with unlocking your car as part of their roadside assistance coverage. This includes:

• Lock-out service: If you’ve locked your keys inside the car, AAA can send a locksmith to unlock your car and get you back on the road. However, this service is typically free under your standard membership.
• Towing: If the lock-out situation is not easily resolved, AAA may tow your vehicle to a dealership or trusted repair shop where further key services can be arranged.

It’s important to note that if the locksmith needs to make a new key for your vehicle on the spot (for example, in the case of a broken or lost key), the cost for key replacement may not be fully covered under your basic membership.

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2. Key Replacement Coverage Based on Membership Level

AAA has different membership levels: Classic, Plus, and Premier. The extent of coverage for key replacement services can depend on which level of membership you have. Here’s how each one works:

– Classic Membership:

• Provides basic roadside assistance services, including lock-out help, but does not cover key replacement or making a new key on-site.

– Plus Membership:

• Offers a more comprehensive roadside assistance service compared to the Classic plan, but still, key replacement or making a new key on-site may not be covered. However, if you are locked out, they will help you get back into your car.

– Premier Membership:

• This level offers the most benefits, including higher coverage limits for locksmith services. However, it typically does not cover the full cost of replacing a lost or broken key.
• You may receive discounts on the replacement of keys through AAA’s network of locksmiths or automotive service providers, but the full replacement cost is generally the responsibility of the member.

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3. Additional Services for Key Replacement

If you need to replace a car key because it’s lost, damaged, or broken, AAA may offer assistance in the following ways:

• Discounts on Key Replacement: In some cases, AAA members receive discounts on key replacement through partner locksmiths or automotive service providers that work with AAA.
• Towing to a Service Center: If your key is lost, AAA may tow your vehicle to a trusted mechanic or dealership where they can replace the key. However, this would likely be at your own expense, unless you’re eligible for additional coverage.

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4. Transponder Keys, Smart Keys, and Key Fobs

For newer vehicles equipped with transponder keys or key fobs, the cost of replacement is typically higher because of the advanced technology involved. AAA can provide towing services to a dealership or locksmith that can make a new key, but:

• The replacement cost for smart keys or key fobs is often not included in AAA’s roadside assistance services.
• Programming transponder keys or key fobs might require a visit to the dealer, and these services are generally not covered by AAA.

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5. How to Use AAA for Key Replacement Services

If you lose your keys or need a replacement, here’s how AAA can assist:

1. Call AAA: Contact AAA’s roadside assistance number to explain your situation (lock-out, lost key, etc.).
2. Roadside Assistance: Depending on your membership, AAA may send a locksmith to unlock your vehicle and provide additional services, such as towing to a service center for key replacement.
3. Find a Trusted Locksmith: If your key is lost or damaged, AAA may suggest a network of locksmiths or partner businesses that offer discounts or services for key replacement.
4. Pay for Key Replacement: If a new key needs to be made, expect to pay out-of-pocket for the cost of the new key, unless it falls under specific coverage.

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FAQs About AAA and Key Replacement

1. Does AAA replace lost car keys?

• No, AAA does not directly replace lost keys but can assist in unlocking your car and may refer you to a locksmith or towing service to handle key replacement.

2. Does AAA cover key fob replacement?

• No, AAA does not typically cover the replacement of key fobs or transponder keys. You’ll need to go to a dealership or a locksmith for these types of replacements.

3. Does AAA cover the cost of locksmith services?

• No, locksmith services are generally not covered by basic AAA membership. However, you may receive discounts if you have a Plus or Premier membership.

4. Can I get a discount on key replacement with AAA?

• Yes, AAA members can receive discounts on key replacement services through partner locksmiths or automotive repair centers.

5. Does AAA cover the cost of towing for key replacement?

• Yes, if your car needs to be towed to a dealership or locksmith for key replacement, AAA will cover the cost of towing as part of its roadside assistance, depending on your membership level.

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Conclusion

While AAA offers valuable roadside assistance services for lock-outs, they do not typically cover the full cost of key replacement. Depending on your membership level, you may receive discounts on key replacement services, but the cost of replacing a lost or broken key is generally the responsibility of the vehicle owner. For those with more advanced keys, like transponder keys or key fobs, you will likely need to go to a dealership or locksmith for replacement, which can incur higher costs.