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 an extra key in case you lose or break your primary key. How much will it cost to purchase a spare car key?
The answer will depend on a myriad of factors. This article will help you decide whether it's worthwhile to have a spare made.
Make
The idea of having a spare key for your vehicle is always a good idea, since losing one could be a costly and stressful experience. But the cost of having a spare key could differ depending on the model and make and also the kind of key.
Basic keys, for instance keys that do not have any technology, are cheaper to replace because they only require an easy cut from an empty. They don't require an encoding system that is specialized. However keys that are integrated with a car fob or has transponder chips will need to be programmed by experts, which will increase the price.
If you have lost your sole key, the first step is to find an locksmith who has the ability to program the type of key you want. Alternatively, you can try to save money by having a new key cut and programming it yourself. The process for doing this will be outlined in your owner's manual or you can go on the internet for "how to program (your year model, make, and year) key." This could help you save $150 or more.
Model
The model number of your car determines the cost of a spare car key. If you need an replacement key for a high-end model or premium vehicle, the cost will be higher. The type of material used to manufacture the key also impacts the price. For instance, it will cost less to replace an uncut key than a key that is complete with an integrated fob. If you're looking to save money, a lot of dealers will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.
Year
It is essential to have an extra car key, particularly if you have young children who may get locked out of the car. There are many options to obtain a spare key, including visiting the dealership from which you bought your automobile, utilizing an auto locksmith, or obtaining one online. Each method has its own costs and benefits. Before making a choice 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.
Type of key
A spare key can allow you to avoid being in a bind in the event that you lose your primary car keys. However the cost of having a spare car key can vary greatly depending on the type of lock your vehicle uses and the kind of key you have.
Hardware stores and locksmiths can cut mechanical keys that function by inserting the key into the cylinder of ignition. They can cost less than $10. Transponder keys or chip keys are more costly and include small chips that communicate to the vehicle to confirm the keys are valid. These keys can only be duplicated in dealerships because they are equipped with the technology needed to program them.
Other advanced features, such as remote starters or mirror folding options, could be a factor in the overall cost of replacing a key. These extra features are beneficial if you are prone to losing your keys or leave them in strange places however, they also increase the likelihood of theft. Consider putting your spare keys in a different place and establish a routine of emptying your pockets before getting into your car. You can be sure your spare key is there in case you need it.
Locks
A spare car key is a smart idea. You'll save yourself a lot of trouble by locking your keys in the car or lose them. You should keep your spare key somewhere secure and easy to locate. You can put it in a key holder that is on the wall or in a drawer of your kitchen.
make spare car key near me of lock you have on your vehicle will also impact the cost of replacing a spare key. The cost of replacing traditional keys that open the car's door by inserting them into the lock is less than replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs transmit an electronic code which allows you to unlock the car or start it from an extended distance.
If you lose your smart key, you will have to visit the dealership or locksmith to get the replacement. These specialists will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle, which could require proof like the registration or title.
In the past, losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. However, with the technological advances in automobiles, it's not as easy to get a spare. It can be costly to get a new car key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some suggestions to help you determine the cost to get a replacement car key made.
Dealership
It's important to keep an extra car key on hand, whether you lost your keys or they were stolen. You'll save time and money in the long run. It will also save you from having to call for a tow when you're stuck without keys. There are several alternatives to get a replacement key, including dealerships, locksmiths and online services. These options differ in cost and convenience therefore you must research the options before making a final decision.
The cost will also depend on the type of key that you require. Keys that are traditional, or basic keys, are inexpensive and easy to replace, while more advanced keys are more expensive. Some features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start, may require special components that are more difficult to find or manufacture. It's important to have an accurate record of your immobilizer's code and the key number, which will help to lower the overall cost.
The most reliable way to obtain a spare car key is to visit the dealership that sells your vehicle's brand. You will get keys that are compatible with your vehicle's system and has been programmed correctly. It may cost more than other options, however it is the most surefire way to ensure that you have a functioning key whenever you need it. It is also typically the only method to obtain keys for more recent vehicles.