How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys can be a huge inconvenience and it's important to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break the one you have. But how much does a spare key for your car cost?
The answer will depend on a number of factors. This article will help you determine whether it's worth having a spare 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 can vary depending on your vehicle's model and make and also the type of key you have.
Basic keys, like, that do not contain any technology are cheaper to replace as they require a simple cut from the blank. They also don't need special encoding. However, a key that is fitted with a car fob or transponder chips will need to be programmed by specialists and will increase the price.
If you've lost your only key, the first step is to locate a local locksmith who has a machine that can program your type of key. Alternately, you could try to save money by having the new key cut and then programming it yourself. The procedure for doing this is outlined in your owner's manual, or you can look on the internet for "how to program (your year, make, and model) key." This can help you save up to $150.
Model
The model number of your vehicle determines the price of an extra car key. If you require a key replacement for a luxury model or premium vehicle, the cost will be higher. The kind of material used to manufacture keys also affects the cost. For instance, it will cost less to replace a blank key than a complete key with an integrated fob. Many dealerships can also cut and program a key from a third party for you, if you want to save money.
Year
A spare car key is crucial particularly if your children are young and could be locked out of the car. You can get a spare car key in many ways, including visiting the dealership that you bought your vehicle from or by hiring an auto locksmith or purchasing one on the internet. Each method has its own costs and advantages. Before making a decision you must take into consideration the type and style of lock. Typically speaking, order spare key for car is, the higher the cost will be.
Type of key
A spare key can help you avoid being left in the event that you lose your car keys. However the cost of having an extra car key could differ greatly based on the type of lock your vehicle is using and the type of key you have.
Hardware stores and locksmiths can cut mechanical keys, which operate by inserting the keys into the cylinder for ignition. These keys cost just $10. 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 ones where you can duplicate these keys, as they have all of the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems, such as remote starter or mirror folding options, may also add to the overall cost of replacing a key. These extra features can be useful if you're prone to misplacing your keys or have a tendency to leave them in odd places, but they can also increase the risk of theft. You might want to consider putting a spare key in a different place and make it a habit of emptying your pockets prior getting into your vehicle. You can be sure your spare key is there in case you need it.
Locks
A spare car key is a smart move. It can save you a lot of stress if you lose your keys or lock them in your car. Keep your spare key somewhere secure and easily accessible. For example the wall-mounted key holder or the kitchen drawer are both good places to put it.
The type of lock you have on your vehicle can also affect the cost of a replacement key. Traditional keys, which are inserted into a lock and open the car doors are less expensive to replace than smart key fobs which transmit an electronic code that allows you to unlock the car or start it from the distance.
If you have lost your smart keys, you'll need to visit a locksmith or dealer to get an alternative. These specialists will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle, and may require providing proof such as the registration or title.
In the past it wasn't a huge problem to lose your car keys. With the technological advancements of cars, it is not as easy to get a spare. You'll need to visit an auto dealer or a locksmith to get a new one made and it can be expensive. Here are some tips to help you figure out how much it will cost to have a spare car key made.
Dealership
It is essential to keep an extra car key in your pocket, whether you lost your keys or they were stolen. You can save time and money in the long run. You will also avoid having to request a tow in the event that you are stuck without a 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 options before deciding.
The type of key you need will also impact the price. Traditional keys, or basic keys, are inexpensive and easy to replace, whereas more advanced keys are more expensive. Certain features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start might require special components, which are difficult to locate or create. It's important to have an inventory of your immobilizer code and the key number which will help lower the overall cost.
The most reliable way to obtain an extra car key is to go to the dealership that sells your vehicle's model. You'll get an appropriate key that is compatible with the vehicle's system and is programmed correctly. It may cost more than other alternatives, but it is the most reliable method to ensure that you have a functioning key whenever you need it. Additionally, it is usually the only way to get keys for more recent vehicles.