Carmax Key Replacement: What You Need To Know

CarMax is a used-car retailer that offers a range of services, including key replacement. The company previously guaranteed two keys for every car sold, but this is no longer the case. Customers can now order additional keys through the CarMax app at a discounted price. CarMax also offers key programming services for a fee, which is significantly cheaper than what most dealers charge. The company has also been known to cover the cost of key replacement under its MaxCare warranty.

Carmax will replace lost keys

In the past, CarMax guaranteed two keys for every car. However, this policy seems to have changed, with some customers reporting that they only received one key when purchasing a car. It is unclear if this is a new standard policy or an exception.

If you have lost your keys, it is best to contact CarMax directly to inquire about replacement options and costs.

Carmax may not replace keys for free

In a Reddit forum for CarMax employees and customers, multiple individuals have shared their experiences with purchasing cars that only included one key. This change in policy appears to be a cost-saving measure for the company, as replacement keys can be quite expensive, ranging from $200 to $1000. CarMax now offers a 20% discount on replacement keys through their app, but the cost is still borne by the customer.

It is worth noting that CarMax does offer certain services and warranties for vehicles purchased within the last 90 days or 4,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, it is unclear if key replacement is included in these services. Additionally, CarMax charges a nominal fee of $31 for key fob programming, which is significantly lower than what most dealers charge.

While CarMax may not provide free key replacement, they do offer various services and discounts to mitigate the cost. Customers can utilize their app to order replacement keys at a discounted price, and take advantage of the company's nationwide network of repair shops for other vehicle maintenance and repair needs.

Carmax offers a key replacement discount

CarMax, a used car retailer, has recently changed its policy on providing two keys for its vehicles. For 30 years, the company guaranteed that each car would come with two keys. However, due to cost-saving measures, CarMax has decided to transition to providing only one key per car. This decision has sparked mixed reactions among customers and employees, with some arguing that the absence of a second key is a deal-breaker, while others consider it a minor inconvenience.

Despite this change, CarMax still offers a key replacement discount to its customers. If a customer purchases a car with only one key, they can order an additional key through the CarMax app at a 20% discount. This discount is exclusive to CarMax buyers and employees. The discounted price for a replacement key is approximately $480, which is significantly cheaper than the $600 price point without the discount.

It is worth noting that CarMax also provides key programming services for a fee of $31. This service is available to anyone, regardless of whether they purchased their vehicle from CarMax or not. CarMax's key programming fee is considerably lower than the $100 to $150 typically charged by dealers.

Carmax's key replacement policy has changed

The new policy states that customers can order an additional key through the CarMax app at a 20% discount, which comes out to about $600 for a key. This has been a point of contention, as some customers feel that CarMax is passing on the cost of the second key to them. Some employees agree, feeling that CarMax is tired of covering the cost of providing two keys.

The change in policy has also affected how CarMax values cars. While they used to lower the value of a car if it only had one key, they no longer do this. This has led to some customers feeling that CarMax is not offering a fair deal. Additionally, there have been reports of customers returning cars with only one key, leaving CarMax to pay for a third key.

Overall, the change in CarMax's key replacement policy has been a controversial one. While some see it as a necessary cost-saving and efficiency measure, others feel that it is an inconvenience and an additional expense. It is essential to note that CarMax still offers key programming services for a low fee of $31, which is significantly cheaper than what most dealers charge.

Carmax's key replacement policy varies by location

It is important to note that CarMax offers a 90-day/4,000-mile (whichever comes first) limited warranty on all cars purchased from them. This warranty covers the major systems and parts of the vehicle, including the engine, transmission, and electrical system. However, it is unclear if key replacement is covered under this warranty.

Additionally, CarMax offers optional MaxCare extended service plans that provide comprehensive coverage for various systems and parts of the vehicle. These plans can be tailored to the customer's budget and offer nationwide protection, rental reimbursement, and discounted deductibles. It is worth checking with your local CarMax service center to see if key replacement is covered under the MaxCare plan.

In terms of key programming, CarMax charges a low fee of $31 for key fob programming, which is significantly cheaper than most dealers. This service is available to anyone, regardless of whether the car was purchased from CarMax or not.

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