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 case you break or lose your primary key. How much will it cost to get a spare car key?
The answer depends on several factors. This article will look at these factors to determine if it's worth having a spare key created.
Make
A spare key for your car is always a good idea as losing one can be a costly and stressful experience. The cost of an extra car key varies depending on the make and model of your car and its type.
Basic keys, for example, that do not contain any technology are less expensive to replace since they require the simple cutting of the blank. They also don't require special encoding. Keys that are integrated into a car fob or has a chip, will need to be programmed, and will cost more.
If you have lost your sole key, your first step is to find a local locksmith who has a tool that can program the type of key. Alternatively, you can try to save money by having a new key cut, and then programming it yourself. You can find the process in your owner's guide or search online 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 the spare key. For instance, if you need a replacement key for a luxury or premium model, the cost will be more expensive than for an entry-level vehicle. The kind of material used to create keys also affects the cost. It is more affordable to replace a blank key than the key that has an integrated key fob. A lot of dealerships will cut and program a third-party key for you if you prefer to save money.
Year
A spare car key is crucial, especially if your children are still young and might get locked inside the car. There are several ways to get an extra key, such as visiting the dealership where you bought your automobile, utilizing an auto locksmith, or purchasing one on the internet. Each choice comes with its own set of costs and advantages. Before making a decision, you should consider the type and style of lock. Generally speaking, the more expensive the brand is and the more expensive it will be.
Type of key
A spare key can help you avoid being left without a place to go if you lose your main car keys. However the cost of having the spare car key may vary greatly depending on the lock type your vehicle uses and the type of key you own.
Traditional purely mechanical keys that work by inserting them into an ignition cylinder can be cut for just $10 at an establishment like a locksmith or hardware store. The more expensive alternative chip keys, also known as transponder keys, contain a tiny electronic chip in the key head that communicates with the vehicle to confirm it is a valid key. Dealerships are the only places where you can duplicate these keys as they have all of the necessary equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems, such as remote starters and mirror folding options, may also increase the total cost of a new key. These additional features can be useful if you're prone to misplacing your keys or have a tendency to place them in a strange location, but they can also increase the likelihood of theft. You may want to consider placing your spare keys in a different location and making it a habit to empty your pockets of all items you don't use before getting into your car. You can be certain that your spare key is in the right place in case you need it.
Locks
A spare car key can be a wise decision. You'll avoid many headaches when you lock your keys in the car or lose them. You should keep your spare keys in a safe place and easy to locate. For example an affixed key holder on the wall or a drawer in your kitchen are great places to leave it.
The type of lock you have on your car can also affect the cost of replacing a spare key. Keys that are traditional, which slide into the lock and open the car doors are less expensive to replace than smart key fobs which emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock or start your car from the distance.
If you have lost your smart keys, you'll need to go to an authorized locksmith or a dealership to obtain an alternative. These specialists will verify that you own the vehicle. This may require you to present proof such as the registration or title.
In getting a spare key for my car wasn't a huge issue to lose your car keys. With the advancements in technology for automobiles, it's no longer as simple to find an extra. You'll have to go to an auto dealer or a locksmith to have a new one made and it can be expensive. Here are some tips to help you figure out how much it will cost to get a spare car key made.
Dealership
Whether you lost your car keys or they were stolen, it's crucial to have a spare key in hand. It will save you money and time in the long run. It also helps you avoid needing to call a tow truck in the event that you are stuck without a key. You have a few alternatives to replace your key. These include dealerships, online services and locksmiths. You must compare the cost and convenience of these choices before making a choice.
The type of key you need will also impact the price. Keys that are traditional are inexpensive and easy to replace. Keys with more advanced features are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start, may require specific components that are more difficult to locate or make. Keep a log of the immobilizer code, as well as your key number. This will help you to save money.
The most secure method to find a spare car key is to visit the dealership that sells your vehicle's brand. You will get an appropriate key that is compatible with your vehicle's system and is programmed correctly. It's more expensive, but you will be sure to have a key that works in the event that you require one. Additionally, it is usually the only method to obtain keys for newer vehicles.