How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It can be a major inconvenience to lose your car keys. It is essential to have one spare in case you break or lose your primary key. How much will it cost to buy a replacement car key?
The answer is contingent on a number of factors. This article will help you decide if it's worth having an extra made.
Make
The idea of having a spare key for your car is always a good idea since losing one could be a costly and stressful experience. The cost of a spare car key varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle and also the type of car.
For instance, keys that are basic that do not have any technology will be cheaper to replace since they require a simple cutting from blanks and do not need specialized encryption. Keys that are integrated into a car fob, or has a chip, will require programming and will cost more.
If you have lost your only key, your first step should be to locate a locksmith in your area with a computer that can program your type of key. You can also attempt to save money by having a new key cut and then programming it yourself. The process for doing this will be 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 the spare car key. For example, if you need a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the price will be higher than that of an entry-level vehicle. The cost is also affected by the kind of material used to make the key. For example, it will cost less to replace the key with a blank one than a key that is complete with an integrated fob. If you're looking to save money, a lot of 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 young children who may get locked out of the car. You can obtain a spare car key various ways, such as going to the dealership where you purchased your car from or by hiring an auto locksmith or purchasing one on the internet. Each has its own costs and benefits. Before making a decision, you should consider both the type and type of lock. Typically speaking the more expensive the brand is and the more expensive it will be.
Key type
A spare key can allow you to avoid being in a bind in the event that you lose your primary car keys. However, the cost of a spare car key can vary greatly depending on the type of lock your vehicle is using and the type of key you have.
Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys, which operate by inserting the keys into the ignition cylinder. These keys cost just $10. The more expensive alternative keys, also known as transponder keys or chip 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 that can duplicate these keys, because they have all the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems, like remote starter or mirror folding options, can also add to the overall cost of replacing a key. These options are beneficial if you tend to lose keys or put them in odd places, but can also increase the likelihood of theft. You might want to consider putting a spare key in a different location and making it a routine of emptying your pockets prior to getting into your vehicle. This way, you can be certain that your spare key will be available in case you require it.
Locks
A spare car key can be a smart choice. You can save yourself many headaches when you lock your keys in the car or lose them. You should keep your spare key somewhere secure and easily accessible. For example, a wall-mounted key holder or a drawer in your kitchen are both good places to leave it.
The type of lock that you put on your vehicle can affect the cost of replacing a key. Keys that are traditional, which slide into a lock and open the doors to the car and are more affordable to replace than smart key fobs, that emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock the car or start it from a distance.
If you lose your smart key, you'll have to visit a dealership or locksmith for a replacement. They will have to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle, and may require proof like the registration or title.
In the past it wasn't such a big issue to lose your car keys. But with technological advancements in cars, it's no longer as easy to find a spare. It can be costly to get a new key made by a locksmith or dealer. Here are some suggestions to aid you in estimating the cost of a brand new spare car key.
Dealership
It's essential to keep an extra car key in your pocket regardless of whether you lost your keys or they were stolen. You'll save money and time in the long run. It will also save you from having to call for a tow if you are stuck without a key. There are several alternatives to replace your key. These include dealerships, online services and locksmiths. You must compare the cost and ease of these options before making a decision.
The cost will also be contingent on the type of key you require. Traditional keys, or basic keys are affordable and simple to replace, while more sophisticated keys are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start, may require special components that are more difficult to locate or make. Keep i need a spare key for my car of the immobilizer code, along with your key number. This will allow you to save money.
The most reliable way to obtain an extra car key is to go to the dealership that sells the brand of your car. You'll get keys that are compatible with your vehicle's system and has been programmed correctly. It is more expensive than other alternatives, but it is the most reliable method to ensure that you have a functioning key in case you require it. It is also usually the only way to obtain the key for certain newer vehicles.