How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys could be a major hassle and it's essential to have a spare key in case you lose or break the one you have. How much does it cost to get a spare car key?
The answer will depend on a variety of factors. This article will examine the factors that will determine if it's worth getting an extra key made.
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Having a spare key for your car is always a good idea, as losing one can be a stressful and costly experience. But the cost of having a spare key could differ depending on the make and model, as well as the type of key you have.
Basic keys, like ones that don't contain any technology, are cheaper to replace since they require the simple cutting of the blank. They also don't need special encoding. However keys that are connected to an auto fob or transponder chips will have to be programmed by experts which will increase the cost.
If you've lost your only key, your first step should be to find a local locksmith who has a tool that can program your kind of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. The steps to do this will be outlined in the owner's manual or you can search on the internet for "how to program (your year, make, and model) key." This may help you save up to $150.
Model
The model number of your car determines the price of an extra car key. If you need a key replacement for a luxury model or premium vehicle the price will be more expensive. The type of materials used to make the key will also impact the price. For example, it will cost less to replace the key with a blank one 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 children who could get locked out of the car. There are many options to obtain an extra key, such as visiting the dealership from which you purchased your car, using an auto locksmith, or getting one online. Each method has the associated costs and benefits. You must consider the type of lock and the lock type prior to making a choice. In general the more expensive the brand is, the higher the cost will be.
Type of key
A spare key will ensure that you don't end up stranded when you lose your main car keys. The cost of having a spare key for your car can differ based on the type of lock and key you have.
Hardware stores and locksmiths can cut mechanical keys, which operate by inserting the keys into the cylinder of ignition. The cost of these keys is just $10. The more expensive alternatives, transponder or chip keys, contain a tiny electronic chip inside the key head that communicates with the vehicle to confirm that it is a genuine key. Dealerships are the only ones that can duplicate these keys because they have all the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced features, such as remote starters or mirror folding options, may be a factor in the overall cost of replacing a key. These extra features can be useful if you're prone to losing your keys or place them in a strange location however, they also increase the risk of theft. You might want to think about placing your spare keys in a separate location and making it a routine to take out any items you don't need prior to getting into your car. You can be sure that your spare key is in the right place whenever you need it.
spare car key price is a smart thing to do. You'll avoid a lot of trouble if you lock your keys in your car or lose them. It is recommended to keep your spare key somewhere safe and easy to locate. For instance an affixed key holder on the wall or the kitchen drawer are both good places to leave it.
The type of lock on your vehicle will also influence the cost of a replacement key. The cost of replacing the traditional keys that open the car door by inserting into the lock is less than the cost of replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs emit an electronic code which allows you to unlock the car or start it from the distance.
If you lose your smart keys, you'll have to visit an authorized locksmith or a dealership to obtain an alternative. The experts will confirm that you own the vehicle. It may be necessary for you to present proof such as the title or registration.
In the past it wasn't such a big deal to lose your car keys. However, with the advancements in technology in cars, it's not as simple to get a spare. It can be costly to have a new key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are a few tips to aid you in estimating the cost of a brand new spare car key.
Dealership
It's important to keep an extra car key in your pocket in case you lose your keys or were stolen. You can save money and time in the long term. It will also save you from having to call for a tow when you're stuck without a key. There are several options to get a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. It is important to compare the costs and convenience of these options before making a choice.
The type of key you need also affects the cost. Traditional keys, or basic keys, are relatively affordable and simple to replace, whereas more sophisticated keys are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start, may require specific components, which are harder to find or manufacture. Keep a record of the immobilizer's number, and also your key number. This will allow you save money.
Visit the dealership that sells the name of your car to purchase an extra key. You'll get a key that's compatible with the vehicle's system and has been programmed correctly. It is more expensive, but you'll be certain to have a key that works when you require it. It is also often the only way to get keys for newer models of vehicles.