How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys can be a huge hassle, and it's essential to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break your primary one. What is the cost to get a spare car key?
The answer depends on several factors. This article will help you determine if it's worth having an extra.
Make
Having a spare key for your car is always a good idea, as losing one can be a stressful and costly experience. However, the cost of having a spare key can differ depending on the make and model and also the type of key you have.
For example, basic keys that contain no technology will be cheaper to replace since they only require a simple cutting from a blank and do not require any special encoding. A key that is integrated into a car fob or has a chip will require programming and will cost more.
If you have lost your sole key the first step is to find a locksmith that has a machine capable of programming your particular type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. You can find the procedure in the owner's manual or search online for "how do I program (your year model and year of manufacture) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model number of your car influences the cost of the spare key. For example, if you require a replacement for a premium or luxury model, the price will be higher than for an entry-level car. The cost is also affected by the type of material used to create the key. It is cheaper to replace a blank than one with an integrated key fob. If you're looking to save money, many dealerships will also cut and program third-party keys for you.
Year
It is important to have an extra car key especially if you have children who might be locked in the car. You can purchase a spare car key several ways, including by going to the dealership you purchased your car from, employing 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 design of lock. Typically speaking the more expensive the lock, the higher the cost will be.
Type of key
A spare key will allow you to avoid being stranded in the event that you lose your primary car keys. The cost of having a spare key for your car can vary based on the type of lock and key you have.
Hardware stores and locksmiths can cut mechanical keys that operate by inserting the keys into the ignition cylinder. These keys cost just $10. The more expensive alternative chip keys, also known as transponder keys, have a small electronic chip inside the head that communicates with the vehicle to verify it's a valid key. Dealerships are the only ones where you can duplicate keys, because they have all the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems like remote starters or mirror folding can increase the cost of replacing keys. These additional features can be beneficial if you are prone to misplacing your keys or have a tendency to leave them in strange places however, they also increase the risk of theft. It's worth leaving a spare key in a separate place and establishing a routine to clear your pockets of anything you don't require before getting into your vehicle. You can be sure your spare key is there when you need to use it.
Locks
A spare car key can be a wise choice. It can save you a lot of trouble when you lose your keys or lock them in the car. Keep your spare key somewhere secure and easy to locate. For example, a wall-mounted key holder or a drawer in your kitchen are both good locations to store it.
The type of lock that you put on your vehicle can affect the cost of a replacement key. Traditional keys, which are inserted into a lock and open the car doors, are cheaper to replace than smart key fobs, that emit an electronic code that lets you unlock or start your car from the distance.
If you lose your smart key, then you'll have to visit the dealership or locksmith to get a replacement. These specialists will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle, and may require proof such as the registration number or title.
In the past it wasn't such a big issue to lose your car keys. However, with the advancements in technology in cars, it's no longer as simple to get an extra. You'll need to either visit a dealer or a locksmith to get a new one made and it could be expensive. Here are some suggestions to assist you in estimating the cost of a new spare car key.
Dealership
It is essential to keep an extra car key in your pocket in case you lose your keys or they were stolen. You can save money and time in the long term. You'll also not have to request a tow in the event that you are stuck without keys. There are several alternatives to get an alternative key, such as locksmiths, dealerships and online services. make a spare car key near me differ in cost and accessibility therefore you must research before deciding.
The cost will also be contingent on the type of key that you need. Traditional keys, or basic keys, are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace, whereas more advanced keys are more expensive. Some features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start, may require specific components that are more difficult to locate or create. It is essential to keep an inventory of your immobilizer's code and the number of your key that will help lower the overall cost.
Visit the dealership that sells the brand of your vehicle to get a spare key. You'll receive keys that are compatible with your vehicle's system and is programmed correctly. It is more expensive than other options, however it is the most surefire method of ensuring that you have a functioning key when you need it. It is also usually the only way to obtain a key for some newer vehicles.