How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It can be a major inconvenience to lose your car keys. It's essential to keep one spare in case you break or lose your primary key. How much does it cost to get a spare car key?
The answer will depend on several factors. This article will help you decide whether it's worth having an extra made.
Make
It is always a smart idea to have a spare car key, as losing a key can be costly and stressful. But the cost of having a spare key may differ depending on the model and make and also the kind of key.
For example, basic keys that do not have any technology will be less expensive to replace because they only require a simple cutting from blanks and do not require specialized encoders. However keys that are integrated with a car fob or has transponder chips will have to be programmed by specialists and will increase the cost.
If you've lost your key, your first step should be to find a local locksmith who has a machine that can program the type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. The procedure for doing this will be outlined in your owner's manual or you can look on the internet for "how to program (your year, make, and model) key." Get the facts could help you save up to $150.
Model
The model number of your vehicle will determine the cost of the spare key. For instance, if require a replacement for a premium or luxury model, the price will be more expensive than for an entry-level car. The kind of material used to manufacture the key will also impact the cost. It is more affordable to replace a blank than one with an integrated key fob. If you want to save money, many dealers will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.
Year
It is important to have an extra car key, particularly if you have young children who may be locked in the car. There are several options to obtain an extra key, such as visiting the dealership from which you bought your vehicle, using an auto locksmith, or obtaining one on the internet. Each option comes with the associated costs and benefits. You should be aware of the type of key and the lock type before making a choice. In general, the more expensive the brand the more expensive the price will be.
Type of key
Having a spare key can help you avoid being stranded in the event you lose your car keys. However, the cost of a spare car key can vary greatly depending on the type of lock your vehicle is using as well as the kind of key you have.
Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys that operate by inserting the keys into the ignition cylinder. The cost of these keys is just $10. The more expensive alternative keys, also known as transponder keys or chip keys, contain a tiny electronic chip in the key head that communicates with the vehicle to confirm it's a valid key. Dealerships are the only ones where you can duplicate these keys since they are equipped with all the necessary equipment to program them.
Other advanced systems, such as remote starters or mirror folding can make it more expensive for replacing keys. These options are beneficial for those who tend to lose keys or leave keys in strange places, but can also increase the likelihood of theft. It's worth keeping a spare key in a separate location and making it a routine to take out all items you don't use prior to getting into your car. This way, you can ensure that your spare key will be there when you need it.
Locks
A spare car key could be a wise decision. You'll avoid many headaches if you lock your keys inside the car or lose them. However, you must keep your spare keys in a secure place and place it in a place that is easy to find. For instance, a wall-mounted key holder or the kitchen drawer are great places to leave it.
The type of locks you use on your car can also affect the cost of replacing a spare key. The cost of replacing traditional keys that unlock the car door by inserting into the lock is less expensive than replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs generate an electronic code that enables you to unlock your car or start it from an extended distance.
If you lose your smart key, you will require the dealership or locksmith to get a replacement. The experts will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle, which could require proof such as the registration or title.
In the past, it wasn't a big deal to lose your car keys. With the advancements in technology of automobiles, it's not as easy to get an extra. It can be expensive to get a new car key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some tips to help you determine the cost to get a replacement car key made.
Dealership
Whether you lost your car keys or they were stolen, it's crucial to have a spare key on your side. You can save money and time in the long run. You will also avoid having to call for a tow if you are stuck without keys. There are a few options for getting a replacement key, including locksmiths, dealerships and online services. These options differ in cost and ease of use, so you should research them before making a decision.
The type of key you need can also affect the price. Keys of the traditional type, also known as basic keys, are inexpensive and easy to replace, while more sophisticated keys are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start, may require special components that are more difficult to locate or make. It is essential to keep an accurate record of your immobilizer's code and the number of your key that will help lower the overall cost.
The most reliable method to get a spare car key is to visit the dealership that sells your vehicle's brand. This will ensure that you have a key that's compatible with your car's systems and is properly programmed. It's more expensive, but you will be sure to have a key that functions in the event that you require one. It is also the only method to get keys for some of the latest models.