How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It's a huge inconvenience to lose your car keys. It's essential to keep one spare in case you break or lose your primary key. But what is a spare key for your vehicle cost?
The answer will depend on several factors. This article will help you determine whether it's worthwhile to have a spare made.
Make
A spare car key is always a good idea since losing a key can be a costly and stressful experience. However, the cost of having a spare key may differ based on the vehicle's make and model and also the kind of key.
Basic keys, for instance keys that do not have any technology are less expensive to replace because they only require the simple cutting of an empty. They also don't require specialized encoding. However keys that are connected to a car fob or transponder chips will need to be programmed by specialists, which will increase the cost.
If you've lost your sole key, your first step is 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 steps to do this will be explained in your owner's manual or you can go on the internet for "how to program (your year, make, and model) key." This can help you save around $150 or more.
Model
The model number of your vehicle influences the price of an extra car key. If you need the replacement of a key for a luxury model or a premium vehicle the price will be more expensive. The cost is also influenced by the type of material used in the making of the key. For example, it will cost less to replace a blank key than a complete key that has an integrated fob. If you're looking to save money, a lot of dealers will also cut and program third-party keys for you.
Year
A spare car key is essential, especially if your children are young and may get locked inside the car. There are several options to obtain an extra key, such as visiting the dealership from which you bought your car, using an auto locksmith, or purchasing one online. Each option comes with the associated costs and advantages. You must take into consideration the type of key you want and the type of lock before making a decision. The more expensive a brand is, the more expensive the price.
Key type
A spare key can help you avoid being left without a place to go when you lose your main car keys. The cost of an extra key for your vehicle can differ based on the type of lock and key you have.
Traditional mechanical keys that are operated by inserting them into an ignition cylinder can be cut for just $10 at the hardware store or locksmith. The more expensive alternatives, transponder or chip keys, have a small electronic chip inside the key head that communicates with the vehicle to confirm it is a valid key. These kinds of keys are only able to be duplicated in dealerships because they are equipped with the technology needed to program them.
Other advanced systems, like remote starters or mirror folding options, could be a factor in the overall cost of replacing a key. These features are useful for those who tend to lose keys or put keys in strange places, however, they can increase the chance of theft. Consider putting your spare keys in a different place and making it a routine of emptying your pockets prior to getting into your car. This way, you can be certain that your spare key will be in your possession when you require it.
Locks
Having a spare car key is a smart idea. You'll avoid many headaches when you lock your keys in your car or lose them. But, it is important to keep your spare key in a safe place, and make sure to place it in a place that is easily accessible. i need a spare key for my car can be put in a key holder on the wall or in a drawer of your kitchen.
The type of locks on your car can also affect the cost of replacing the spare key. The cost of replacing traditional keys that unlock the car door by inserting them into the lock is less expensive than replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs transmit an electronic code that enables you to unlock your car or start it from the distance.
If you lose your smart key, then you'll need to go to a dealership or locksmith for an alternative. They will verify that you have ownership of the vehicle. It may be necessary for you to provide proof such as the registration or title.
In the past, it wasn't a big issue to lose your car keys. However, with the technological advances in cars, it's no longer as easy to find an extra. You'll have to go to an authorized dealer or locksmith to have a new one made, and that can be expensive. Here are some suggestions to aid you in estimating the cost of a brand new spare car key.
Dealership
It is essential to keep a spare car key handy in case you lose your keys or they were stolen. You'll save time and money in the long term. It will also save you from having to call for a tow when you find yourself stranded without a key. You have a few options to obtain a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. These options vary in price and convenience and you should investigate before deciding.
The cost will also be contingent on the type of key you need. Traditional keys are relatively cheap and simple to replace. Keys with more advanced features are more expensive. Some features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation remote start, and alarm activation, could require specific components that are more difficult to locate or make. It is important to keep an accurate record of your immobilizer code and the key number, which will help to lower the overall cost.
The most reliable method to get a spare car key is to visit the dealership that sells the brand of your car. You'll receive an appropriate key that is compatible with the vehicle's system and is programmed correctly. It is more expensive, but you'll be certain to have a key that works when you need one. It is also typically the only method to obtain keys for newer models of vehicles.