How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
Losing your car keys can be a huge inconvenience and it's essential to have a spare key in case you lose or break the one you have. How much will it cost to get a spare car key?
The answer depends on a variety of factors. This article will explore those factors to help you decide whether it's worth having an extra key made.
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It is always a smart idea to keep a spare car key, since losing a key could be expensive and stressful. However, spare car key replacement cost of having a spare key can differ depending on the make and model and also the type of key you have.
Basic keys, for example keys that do not have any technology are cheaper to replace as they require an easy cut from the blank. They don't require special encoding. However keys that are integrated with a car fob or transponder chips will have to be programmed by experts and can increase the cost.
If you lose your only key the first step is to find an authorized locksmith with a machine capable of programming the type of key you want. spare car key replacement cost can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. You can locate the procedure in your owner's guide 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 determines the price of the spare car key. For example, if you need a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the cost will be more expensive than for an entry-level car. The type of material used to make the key will also impact the price. It is more affordable to replace a blank rather than the key that has an integrated key fob. Many dealerships can also cut and program a third-party key for you, if you want to save money.
Year
A spare car key is essential particularly if your children are still young and might be locked out of the car. You can purchase a spare car key in several ways, including by going to the dealership you purchased your car from or by employing an auto locksmith, or purchasing one from the internet. Each comes with its own cost and advantages. Before you make a decision you must take into consideration both the type and type of lock. Typically speaking the more expensive the brand is the more expensive the price will be.
Type of key
A spare key can prevent you from being stranded in the event that you lose your primary car keys. However the cost of an extra car key could differ greatly based on the type of lock your vehicle uses and the type of key you have.
Traditional mechanical keys that work by inserting them into the ignition cylinder can be cut down for as little as $10 at the hardware store or locksmith. Chip keys, also known as transponder keys, are more costly and include tiny chips that talk with the vehicle to verify that the key is valid. Dealerships are the only ones that can duplicate these keys, since they are equipped with all the necessary equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems like remote starters and mirror folding can make it more expensive for replacing keys. These extra features can be beneficial if you are prone to losing your keys, or have a tendency to leave them in odd places, but they can also increase the chance of theft. You might want to think about keeping the spare key in a different location and making it a routine to empty your pockets of any items you don't need before you get into your car. This way, you'll ensure that your spare key will be there when you require it.
Locks
A spare car key is a smart move. You can save yourself many headaches if you lock your keys in your car or lose them. It is recommended to keep your spare keys in a safe place and easy to find. You can leave it in a key holder that is on the wall or in a drawer in your kitchen.
The type of locks you use on your car will also affect the cost of replacing the spare key. The cost of replacing the traditional keys that unlock the car door by inserting into the lock is less expensive than the cost of replacing smart key fobs. spare car key replacement cost emit an electronic code that enables you to open the car or start it from a distance.
If you lose your smart keys, you'll need to visit a locksmith or dealership to get a replacement. They will verify that you have the vehicle. It may be necessary for you to present proof like the registration or title.
In the past, losing your car keys was not a major issue. However, with the advancements in technology in cars, it's no longer as easy to find a spare. You'll need to either visit an auto dealer or a locksmith to have a brand new key made for you and it could be costly. Here are some suggestions to help you determine how much it will cost to get a spare car key made.
Dealership
It is essential to keep a spare car key handy regardless of whether you lost your keys or were stolen. You'll save time and money in the long term. It also prevents you from having to call a truck if you are stranded with no key. There are several alternatives to replace your key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. It is important to compare the costs and convenience of these choices before making a decision.
The cost will also depend on the type of key that you need. Keys of the traditional type, also known as basic keys, are relatively affordable and simple to replace, whereas more advanced keys will be more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, remote start, and alarm activation, could require specific components that are more difficult to locate or make. It's important to have a record of your immobilizer code and the key number, which will help to reduce the overall costs.
Visit the dealer that sells the brand of your vehicle to obtain a spare key. You'll get keys that are compatible with the system of your vehicle, and that has been programmed correctly. It can be more expensive than other options, but it is the most reliable method of ensuring that you have a working key in case you require it. It is also usually the only way to get keys for newer vehicles.