How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys could be a huge inconvenience and it's important to have a spare key in case you lose or break your primary one. What is the cost to get a spare car key?
The answer will depend on a myriad of factors. This article will help you determine whether it's worthwhile to have an extra made.
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It's always a good idea to have a spare car key as losing a key can be costly and stressful. But the cost of having a spare key may differ based on the vehicle's model and make and the kind of key.
For instance, keys that are basic with no technology will be less expensive to replace because they require a simple cutting from blanks and do not require any special encoders. A key that is integrated into a car fob or has a chip will need to be programmed and will be more expensive.
If you lose your only key, the first step is to find an locksmith who has the ability to program your particular type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. You can locate the procedure in the owner's manual, or on the internet for "how do I program (your year make and model) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model of your vehicle influences the cost of an extra car key. If you require an replacement key for a luxurious model or a premium vehicle, the cost will be more expensive. The type of material used to manufacture keys also affects the cost. It is less expensive to replace a blank than a key with an integrated key fob. If you're looking to save money, several dealerships will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.
Year
It is crucial to have a spare car key, especially if you have young children who could lock themselves in the vehicle. There are a variety of options to obtain a spare key, including visiting the dealership where you purchased your vehicle, using an auto locksmith, or getting one online. Each option comes with its own set of costs and advantages. You should take into consideration the type of key you want and the lock type prior to making a choice. The more expensive a particular brand is, the more expensive the price.
Key type
A spare key will allow you to avoid being stranded in the event that you lose your primary car keys. However the cost of an extra car key could vary greatly depending on the type of lock your vehicle is using as well as the type of key you have.
Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys that operate by inserting the keys into the cylinder for ignition. The cost of these keys is as little as $10. Transponder keys or chip keys are more expensive and feature small chips that communicate with the vehicle to confirm the key is valid. These kinds of keys are only able to be duplicated at dealerships, as they have the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced features, such as remote starters or mirror folding options, could also add to the overall cost of a replacement key. These features are useful if you tend to lose keys or put keys in strange places, but can also increase the risk for theft. You might want to think about keeping your spare keys in a separate place and making it a routine to empty your pockets of anything you don't require prior to getting into your car. This way, you'll ensure that your spare key will be there when you need it.
Locks
A spare car key could be a wise decision. You'll save yourself a lot of trouble by locking your keys in the car or lose them. Keep spare car keys cut near me in a safe place and easy to locate. For example the wall-mounted key holder or an open drawer in your kitchen are both good places to leave it.
The type of lock you have on your car can also affect the cost of replacing keys that are spare. The cost of replacing the traditional keys that unlock the car door by inserting them into the lock is less expensive than the cost of replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs transmit an electronic code that enables you to unlock the car or start it from a distance.
If you lose your smart key, then you'll need to go to an establishment or locksmith for an alternative. They will have to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle, which may require proof of ownership such as the registration number or title.
In the past it wasn't such a big problem to lose your car keys. With the advancements in technology for cars, it is not as easy to get a spare. You'll need to visit an authorized dealer or locksmith to have a brand new one made and it could be expensive. Here are some suggestions to help you determine how much it will cost to get a spare car key made.
Dealership
If you've lost your keys to your car or were stolen, it's crucial to keep a spare key on the side. You'll save money and time in the long run. It will also save you from having to call for a tow if you are stuck without keys. There are several options to obtain an alternative key, such as dealerships, locksmiths, and online services. You must compare the cost and ease of these options before making a choice.
The type of key you require can also affect the price. Traditional keys are relatively cheap and easy to replace. Keys with more advanced features are more expensive. Some features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start, may require specific components that are more difficult to locate or manufacture. It's important to have an inventory of your immobilizer code and key number that will help lower the overall cost.
The most reliable way to obtain a spare car key is to go to the dealership that sells the brand of your car. This will ensure that you have a key compatible with your car's systems and is properly programmed. It is more expensive, but you'll be certain to have a key that works when you need one. It is also usually the only way to obtain keys for newer models of vehicles.