How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys could be a huge hassle, and it's essential to have an extra key in case you lose or break the one you have. How much will it cost to purchase a spare car key?
The answer is contingent on a variety of factors. This article will explore those factors to determine if it's worth having an extra key made.
Make
The idea of having a spare car key is always a good idea, as losing one can be a costly and stressful experience. The cost of a spare car key varies depending on the make and model of your car and its type.
Basic keys, for example ones that don't contain any technology, are cheaper to replace because they only require an easy cut from a blank. They also don't need an encoding system that is specialized. Keys that are integrated into a car fob or has a chip will require programming, and will cost more.
If you lose your only key, the first step is to find an authorized locksmith with an equipment that can program 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 go online to search for "how do I program (your year make and model) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model number of your car determines the price of an extra car key. For instance, if require a replacement for a luxury or premium model, the cost will be more expensive than for an entry-level car. The kind of material used to manufacture the key will also impact the price. It is cheaper to replace a blank rather than one 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 important to have a spare car key, especially if you have children who might get locked out of the car. spare key replacement can purchase a spare car key in various ways, such as visiting the dealership that you purchased your car from or hiring an auto locksmith or purchasing one on the internet. Each choice comes with the associated costs and benefits. You should consider the type of key you want and the lock type before making a decision. The more expensive a brand is, the greater the cost.
Key type
A spare key can help you avoid being stranded in the event you lose your car keys. spare car key replacement cost of an extra key for your car could vary depending on the type lock and key that you own.
Traditional mechanical keys that function by inserting them into the ignition cylinder can be cut for as little as $10 at an establishment like a locksmith or hardware store. The more expensive alternative chip keys, also known as transponder keys, are equipped with a tiny electronic chip in the key head that communicates with the vehicle to verify it's a valid key. Dealerships are the only place where you can duplicate keys, because they have all the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems, 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 your keys or leave keys in strange places, but they increase the chance of theft. Consider putting your spare keys in a different spot and making it a routine of emptying your pockets prior to getting into your vehicle. You can be sure that your spare key is available in case you need it.
Locks
Having a spare car key is a smart move. You'll avoid a lot of trouble if you lock your keys inside the car or lose them. It is recommended to 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 good places to put it.
The type of locks on your vehicle will also impact the cost of replacing a spare key. Keys that are traditional, which slide into a lock and then open the doors to the car, are cheaper to replace than smart key fobs that emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock the car or start it from a distance.
If you lose your smart keys you'll need to go to a locksmith or dealership to obtain an alternative. The experts will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle, and may require proof of ownership like the registration or title.
In the past the time of car keys being lost, it was not a big deal. But with technological advancements in cars, it's no longer as simple to get an extra. You'll need to visit an authorized dealer or locksmith to get a new one made, and that can be costly. Here are a few tips to help you estimate the cost of purchasing a new spare car key.
Dealership
If you've lost your car keys or they were stolen, it's essential to have a spare key in the side. You can save time and money in the long run. It also prevents you from needing to call a tow truck if you are stranded without a key. You have a few alternatives to replace your key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. These options differ in cost and ease of use, so you should research the options before making a final decision.
The kind of key you require also affects the cost. Keys of the traditional type, also known as 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 locate or create. It's important to have an inventory of your immobilizer code and key number, which will help to reduce the overall costs.
The most reliable way to find a spare car key is to visit the dealership that sells your vehicle's model. You'll receive an appropriate key that is compatible with the vehicle's system, and that has been programmed correctly. It may cost more than other options, but it is the best method to ensure that you have a working key when you need it. It is also often the only way to get the key for certain more recent vehicles.