How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys could be a huge hassle, and it's important to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break your primary one. How much will it cost to purchase a spare car key?
The answer will depend on a variety of factors. This article will explore the factors that will determine if it's worth having a spare key made.
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Having a spare key for your car is always a good idea, as losing one can be a costly and stressful experience. The cost of a spare car key varies according to the make and model of your car, as well as the type of car.
For instance, simple keys with no technology will be cheaper to replace because they require a simple cutting from blanks and do not require specialized encoding. However, a key that is connected to an auto fob or a transponder chip will have to be programmed by experts and will increase the price.
If you lose your only key, the first step is to locate a locksmith that has an equipment that can program the type of key you want. Alternately, you could try to save money by having a new key cut and programming it yourself. The procedure for doing this will be explained in your owner's manual or you can search online for "how to program (your year model, make, and year) key." This could help you save up to $150.
Model
The model of your car influences the cost of an extra key. If you require a key replacement for a high-end model or a premium car the price will be more expensive. The kind of material used to manufacture the key also impacts the cost. It is less expensive to replace a blank rather than one with an integrated key fob. If you're looking to save money, a lot of dealerships will also cut and program third-party keys for you.
Year
It is essential to have a spare car key, especially if you have young children who may lock themselves in the vehicle. There are a variety of ways to get an extra key, which includes visiting the dealership from which you bought your car, using an auto locksmith, or getting one online. Each option comes with the associated costs and benefits. Before making a choice, you should consider the type and style of lock. The more expensive a particular brand is, the greater the cost.
Key type
A spare key will help you avoid being left in a bind when you lose your main car keys. The cost of an extra key for your car can vary based on the type of lock and key you have.
Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys, which function by inserting the key into the cylinder for ignition. The cost of these keys is as little as $10. Transponder keys or chip keys are more costly and include tiny chips that talk with the vehicle to confirm the keys are valid. Dealerships are the only places where you can duplicate these keys as they have all of the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems such as remote starters or mirror folding can increase the cost of replacing keys. These features are useful if you tend to lose keys or put keys in strange places, but can increase the chance of theft. You might want to consider putting a spare key in a different spot and establish a routine of emptying your pockets prior to getting into your vehicle. This way, you can ensure that your spare key will be there when you need it.
Locks
A spare car key can be a wise decision. It will save you a lot of stress if you lose your keys or if you lock them in the car. Keep your spare key somewhere safe and easy to find. You can leave it in a key holder placed on the wall or in a drawer in your kitchen.
The type of lock you have on your car will also affect the cost of replacing the spare key. The cost of replacing traditional keys that open the car's door by inserting them into the lock is less than the cost of replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs generate an electronic code which allows you to unlock your car or start it from the distance.
If you lose your smart keys you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or a dealership to obtain a replacement. The experts will confirm that you own the vehicle. This may require you to provide proof like the registration or title.
In the past it wasn't such a big problem 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 car key made by a locksmith or dealer. Here are spare car key cost to help you figure out how much it will cost to get a spare car key made.
Dealership
It's essential to keep an extra car key on hand in case you lose your keys or were stolen. It will save you time and money in the long run. It will also save you from having to request a tow in the event that you're stuck without a key. There are a few options to obtain keys that can be replaced, including dealerships, locksmiths, and online services. It is important to compare the costs and convenience of these options before making a choice.
The cost will also depend on the type of key you need. Keys of the traditional type, also known as basic keys, are inexpensive and easy 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 create. It is important to keep an inventory of your immobilizer code and key number which will help reduce the overall costs.
The most reliable method to find an extra car key is to visit the dealership that sells your vehicle's brand. You'll receive keys that are compatible with the vehicle's system and is programmed correctly. It can be more expensive than other options, however it is the most surefire method of ensuring that you have a functioning key when you need it. In addition, it is often the only method to obtain keys for newer vehicles.