How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys could be a huge inconvenience and it's important to have an extra key in case you lose or break the one you have. How much will it cost to purchase a spare car key?
The answer is contingent on a myriad of factors. This article will help you determine whether it's worth having an extra.
Make
It's always a good idea to keep an extra car key as losing a key can be costly and stressful. However, the cost of having a spare key can differ depending on the model and make, as well as the kind of key you have.
Basic keys, like, that do not contain any technology, are cheaper to replace since they require an easy cut from the blank. They also don't need special encoding. Keys that are integrated into a car fob or has a chip will need to be programmed and will cost more.
If you've lost your sole key, the first step should be to locate a local locksmith who has a tool that can program the type of key. Alternatively, you can try to save money by having the new key cut and then programming it yourself. You can find the procedure in your owner's guide or on the internet for "how do I program (your year, make, and model) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model of your vehicle influences the cost of a spare car key. For example, if you require a replacement key for a luxury or premium model, the cost will be more expensive than for an entry-level vehicle. The type of material used to make the key will also impact the price. It is less expensive to replace a blank key than the key that has an integrated key fob. If you want to save money, several dealers will also cut and program third-party keys for you.
Year
It is important to have an extra car key especially if you have young children who could lock themselves in the vehicle. You can obtain a spare car key in several ways, including by visiting the dealership that you bought your vehicle from, employing an auto locksmith, or ordering one online. Each option comes with its own costs and advantages. Before making a decision, you should consider the type and style of lock. The more expensive a brand is, the greater the price.
Key type
A spare key will help you avoid being left in a bind in the event that you lose your primary car keys. The cost of a spare key for your vehicle can vary depending on the type lock and key you have.
Traditional purely mechanical keys that function by inserting them into an ignition cylinder can be cut for just $10 at the hardware store or locksmith. Transponder keys or chip keys are more costly and include a small chip that communicates with the vehicle to confirm the authenticity of the key. Dealerships are the only places that can duplicate keys, since they are equipped with all the necessary equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems, such as remote starters or mirror folding options, can also add to the overall cost of a new key. These extra features are useful if you're prone to losing your keys or have a tendency to place them in a strange location, but they can also increase the likelihood of theft. Consider putting your spare keys in a different location and making it a routine of emptying your pockets before getting into your vehicle. This way, you can be certain 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 trouble when you lose your keys or have them locked in the car. Keep your spare key somewhere secure and easy to locate. It can be put in a key holder that is on the wall or in a drawer of your kitchen.
The type of lock you have on your vehicle will also impact the cost of replacing a spare key. The cost of replacing the traditional keys that open the car's 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 open the car or start it from a distance.
If you lose your smart key, you will have to visit a dealership or locksmith for an alternative. These specialists will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle, which could require proof like the registration or title.
In the past, it wasn't a big problem to lose your car keys. With the advancements in technology of automobiles, it's not as simple to find an extra. It can be costly to have a new key made by a locksmith or dealer. Here are a few tips to help you estimate the cost of a brand new spare car key.
Dealership
If you've lost your car keys or were stolen, it's important to have a spare key in the side. You'll save money and time in the long run. You'll also not have to call for a tow when you're stuck without a key. There are a variety of options to obtain an alternative key, such as dealerships, locksmiths and online services. These options differ in cost and accessibility therefore you must research before deciding.
The cost will also depend on the type of key you need. Keys of the traditional type are cheap and simple to replace. More advanced keys are more expensive. Certain features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start, may require specific components, which are difficult to locate or make. You should keep a record of the immobilizer code, as well as your key number. This will allow you to save money.
Visit the dealer that sells the model of your vehicle to get an extra key. You'll receive an appropriate key that is compatible with the vehicle's system and has been programmed correctly. It's more expensive but you will be sure to have a key that works when you need one. auto key spares is also the only method to get keys for some of the latest models.