How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It can be a major inconvenience to lose your car keys. It is essential to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break your primary key. How much does it cost to get a spare car key ?
The answer depends on several factors. This article will explore those factors to help you decide whether it's worth having a spare key made.
Make
A spare key for your vehicle is always a good idea, since losing a key can be a costly and stressful experience. The cost of the spare car key is according to the make and model of the vehicle, as well as the type of car.
For example, basic keys with no technology will be cheaper to replace because they only require a simple cutting from a blank and do not need specialized encryption. A key that is integrated into a car fob, or is equipped with a chip will need to be programmed and will cost more.
If you have lost your key, your first step is to locate a locksmith in your area with a computer that can program your kind of key. You 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 make and model) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model number of your vehicle will determine the cost of a spare key. If you require a key replacement for a luxurious model or premium vehicle the price will be more expensive. The type of materials used to make the key also impacts the cost. For example, it will cost less to replace a blank key than a complete key that has an integrated fob. If you want to save money, several dealerships will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.
Year
It is essential to have an extra car key especially if you have young children who could get locked out of the car. You can obtain an extra car key in several ways, including by going to the dealership where you purchased your car from or by employing an auto locksmith, or purchasing one from the internet. Each comes with its own cost and benefits. You should be aware of the type of key you want and the type of lock before making a choice. Generally speaking the more expensive the lock the more expensive the price will be.
Key type
A spare key can allow you to avoid being without a place to go if you lose your main car keys. However the cost of an extra car key could vary greatly depending on the lock type your vehicle uses and the type of key you have.
Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys, which function by inserting the key into the cylinder of ignition. The cost of these keys is as little as $10. The more expensive alternative, transponder or chip keys, contain a tiny electronic chip inside the key head that communicates with the vehicle to verify it's a valid key. These types of keys can only be duplicated in dealerships since they have the equipment required to program them.
Other advanced systems such as mirror folding or remote starters can make it more expensive for a key replacement. These additional features can be useful if you're susceptible to losing your keys, or leave them in strange places but they also increase the risk of theft. You might want to think about placing your spare keys in a different location and establishing a routine to empty your pockets of all items you don't use before getting into your car. You can be sure that your spare key is there whenever you need it.
Locks
A spare car key can be a smart choice. It will save you a lot of hassle in the event that you lose your keys or if you lock them in your car. However, you must keep your spare key in a safe place, and make sure to place it in a place that is easy to find. It can be put in a key holder placed on the wall or in a drawer in your kitchen.
The type of lock that you put on your vehicle will also influence the cost of a replacement 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. Smart key fobs transmit an electronic code that allows you to unlock your car or start it from a distance.
If you lose your smart key, you'll need to go to an establishment or locksmith for the replacement. These specialists will verify that you own the vehicle. This may require you to show proof of ownership like the title or registration.
In the past, it wasn't a big deal to lose your car keys. However, with the advancements in technology in cars, it's no longer as easy to find a spare. It can be costly to get a new key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some tips to help you determine the cost to get a spare car key made.
Dealership
Whether you lost your keys to your car or were stolen, it's essential to have a spare key on your side. You can save time and money in the long run. It also prevents you from having to call a tow truck in the event that you are stuck with no key. There are several options to obtain a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. These options differ in cost and accessibility therefore you must research the options before making a final decision.
The type of key you need can also affect the price. Keys that are traditional are inexpensive and easy to replace. Keys with more advanced features are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start may require special components, which are harder to find or manufacture. It is essential to keep a record of your immobilizer code and key number, which will help to reduce the overall cost.
The most secure method to find an extra car key is to visit the dealership that sells the brand of your car. You'll get a key that's compatible with the vehicle's system and has been programmed correctly. It is more expensive than other options, however it is the best method of ensuring that you have a working key in case you require it. Additionally, it is typically the only method to obtain the key for certain newer models of vehicles.