How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys can be a huge inconvenience and it's essential to have an extra 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 several factors. This article will explore those factors to determine if it's worth having a spare key created.
Make sure you make use of
Having a spare car key is always a good idea since losing a key can be a costly and stressful experience. But the cost of having a spare key could differ based on the vehicle's make and model and the kind of key you have.
Basic keys, like, that do not contain any technology are cheaper to replace since they require an easy cut from a blank. They don't require an encoding system that is specialized. A key that is integrated into a car fob, or is equipped with a chip will need to be programmed and will be more expensive.
If you've lost your key, your first step is to find a local locksmith who has a tool that can program your kind of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. The steps to do this will be explained in the owner's manual or you can look on the internet for "how to program (your year model, make, and year) key." This could help you save up to $150.
Model
The model of your car determines the cost of the spare car key. For instance, if you require a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the price will be higher than that of an entry-level vehicle. The cost is also influenced by the type of material used to create the key. It is cheaper to replace a blank rather than a key with an integrated key fob. If you want to save money, several dealers will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.
Year
A spare car key is essential particularly if your children are still young and might lock themselves inside the vehicle. You can purchase a spare car key several ways, including by going to the dealership you purchased your car from or employing an auto locksmith, or purchasing one from the internet. Each option has its own costs and advantages. Before you make a decision you must take into consideration the type and style of lock. Typically speaking, the more expensive the lock and the more expensive it will be.
Key type
A spare key can help you avoid being left stranded if you lose your main car keys. The cost of an extra key for your car could vary depending on the type lock and key you own.
Traditional mechanical keys that function by inserting them into an ignition cylinder, they can be cut for just $10 at an establishment like a locksmith or hardware store. Chip keys or transponder keys are more expensive and feature small chips that communicate to the vehicle in order to verify that the keys are valid. Dealerships are the only place where you can duplicate keys, because they have all the necessary equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems, such as remote starters or mirror folding can also increase the cost of the replacement of keys. These extra features can be useful if you're prone to misplacing your keys or have a tendency to leave them in strange places but they also increase the likelihood of theft. It's worth leaving a spare key in a separate location and establishing a routine to take out all items you don't use before getting into your car. This way, you'll ensure that your spare key will be there whenever you require it.
Locks
A spare car key is a smart idea. You can save yourself many headaches if you lock your keys inside the car or lose them. However, you must keep your spare keys in a safe place, and ensure that you place it in a place that is easy to find. You can put it in a key holder that is on the wall or in a drawer of your kitchen.
The type of lock that you put on your vehicle can also affect the cost of replacing a key. Traditional keys, which insert into the lock and open the doors of your car are less expensive to replace than smart key fobs, which emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock or start the car from a distance.
If you lose your smart key, then you'll need to go to the dealership or locksmith to get a replacement. They will have to confirm that you're the owner of the vehicle, which could require proof of ownership such as the registration or title.
In the past the time of car keys being lost, it was not a major issue. With the technological advancements of automobiles, it's no longer as easy to get a spare. It can be costly to have a new key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some tips to help you figure out how much it will cost to get a spare car key made.
Dealership
It's important to keep a spare car key handy regardless of whether you lost your keys or were stolen. It can save you time and money in the long run. It will also save you from having to request a tow in the event that you are stuck without a key. There are several options to get a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. You should compare the price and convenience of these options before making a choice.
The cost will also be contingent on the type of key that you need. places that make spare car keys are relatively cheap and simple to replace. Keys with more advanced features are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation remote start, and alarm activation, could require specific components that are more difficult to find or create. It is essential to keep an accurate record of your immobilizer code and key number that will help reduce the overall costs.
Visit the dealership that sells the model of your car to purchase a spare key. You'll get an appropriate key that is compatible with your vehicle's system and has been programmed correctly. It's more expensive, but you will be sure to have a key that works when you require it. It is also typically the only way to get keys for newer vehicles.