How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It's a huge inconvenience to lose your car keys. It's important to keep one spare in the event that you lose or break your primary key. How much does it cost to get a spare car key?
The answer depends on a number of factors. This article will explore the factors that will determine if it's worth getting a spare key made.
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It's always a good idea to have an extra car key as losing a key can be expensive and stressful. The cost of the spare car key is depending on the make and model of your vehicle and also the type of car.
Basic keys, for example ones that don't contain any technology, are cheaper to replace because they only require a simple cut from a blank. They also don't need specialized encoding. A key that is integrated into a car fob or has a chip, will need to be programmed, and will cost more.
If you've lost your primary key the first step is to locate a locksmith that has a machine capable of programming the type of key you want. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. You can find the process in the owner's manual, or go online to search for "how do I program (your year make and model) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model of your car influences the cost of a spare key. If you need an replacement key for a luxurious model or a premium vehicle, the cost will be higher. The type of materials used to make the key will also impact the cost. For instance, it'll cost less to replace the key with a blank one than a key that is complete with an integrated fob. If you're looking to save money, many dealers will also cut and program third-party keys for you.
Year
A spare car key is essential especially if your kids are young and may be locked out of the car. There are many ways to get a spare key, including visiting the dealership where you purchased your automobile, utilizing an auto locksmith, or purchasing one on the internet. Each method has the associated costs and advantages. You should take into consideration the type of key you want and the type of lock before making a choice. The more expensive a particular brand is, the greater the cost.
Type of key
A spare key can allow you to avoid being in a bind if you lose your main car keys. The cost of an extra key for your vehicle can vary based on the type of lock and key you have.
Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys that operate by inserting the keys into the cylinder for ignition. These keys cost just $10. Chip keys, also known as transponder keys, are more costly and include tiny chips that talk to the vehicle to verify that the keys are valid. Dealerships are the only place where you can duplicate these keys, since they are equipped with all the necessary equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems such as mirror folding or remote starters can also make it more expensive for the replacement of keys. These extra features are beneficial if you are prone to losing your keys, or leave them in odd places however, they also increase the risk of theft. You may want to consider keeping the spare key in a different location and making it a habit to empty your pockets of all items you don't use before getting into your vehicle. This way, you'll ensure that your spare key will be available when you require it.
Locks
The idea of having a spare car key is a smart idea. It can save you a lot of hassle in the event that you lose your keys or have them locked in your car. However, you must keep your spare key in a secure place and ensure that you put it somewhere easily accessible. It can be put in a key holder placed on the wall or in a drawer of your kitchen.
The type of locks on your vehicle will also impact the cost of replacing the spare key. The cost of replacing the traditional keys that open the car door by inserting them into the lock is cheaper than replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs emit an electronic code which allows you to unlock the car or start it from an extended distance.
If you have lost your smart keys, you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or a dealership to obtain a replacement. The experts will need to confirm that you're the owner of the vehicle, which may require proof of ownership like the registration or title.
In spare keys wasn't such a big issue to lose your car keys. With the technological advancements of automobiles, it's not as easy to get an extra. You'll need to either visit an auto dealer or a locksmith to get a new one made for you, and that can be expensive. Here are some tips to help you figure out the cost to get a spare car key made.
Dealership
If you've lost your car keys or they were stolen, it's crucial to have a spare key on hand. It can save you money and time in the long in the long run. It also prevents you from having to call a tow truck if you are stranded without a key. There are a variety of options to obtain an alternative key, such as dealerships, locksmiths and online services. These options differ in cost and ease of use and you should investigate before deciding.
The type of key you need also affects the cost. Keys that are traditional, or basic keys are affordable and simple to replace, while more advanced keys are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start, may require specific components that are more difficult to find or create. You should keep a record of the immobilizer code, as well as your key number. This will allow you save money.
The most secure method to find a spare car key is to visit the dealership that sells your vehicle's model. This will ensure that you have a key that is compatible with your car's system and has been programmed correctly. It's more expensive but you'll be certain to have a key that works in the event that you require one. It is also usually the only way to obtain a key for some more recent vehicles.