How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
Losing your car keys can be a huge inconvenience and it's important to have an extra key in case you lose or break your primary one. What is the cost to buy a replacement car key?
The answer will depend on several factors. This article will help you determine whether it's worth having an extra made.
Make
It's always a good idea to have a spare car key since losing a key could be expensive and stressful. However, the cost of having a spare key could differ based on the vehicle's make and model and also the kind of key.
Basic keys, for instance, that do not contain any technology are cheaper to replace since they require a simple cut from the blank. They also don't require special encoding. However keys that are fitted with a car fob or transponder chips will have to be programmed by experts, which will increase the price.
If you've lost your primary key, the first step is to locate an locksmith who has an equipment that can program your type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. like it 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 number of your vehicle determines the cost of the spare key. For instance, if need a replacement key for a luxury or premium model, the price will be higher than for an entry-level vehicle. The type of material used to make the key also impacts the price. It is more affordable to replace a blank key than the key that has an integrated key fob. If you want to save money, many 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 children who could lock themselves in the vehicle. There are many options to obtain an extra key, which includes visiting the dealership from which you purchased your vehicle, using an auto locksmith, or purchasing one on the internet. Each method has its own set of costs and advantages. Before making a choice you must consider both the type and type of lock. In general the more expensive the brand is, the higher the cost will be.
Key type
A spare key will allow you to avoid being in a bind in the event that you lose your primary car keys. The cost of having a spare key for your vehicle can differ based on the type of lock and key you own.
Traditional mechanical keys that are operated by inserting them into an ignition cylinder can be cut for less than $10 at a hardware store or locksmith. The more expensive alternatives keys, also known as transponder keys or chip keys, are equipped with a tiny electronic chip inside the key head that communicates with the vehicle to confirm it's a valid key. Dealerships are the only place where you can duplicate these keys, because they have all the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced features, such as remote starters and mirror folding options, may also add to the overall cost of replacing a key. These extra features are beneficial if you are prone to losing your keys or leave them in odd places, but they can also increase the likelihood of theft. Consider leaving a spare in a different spot and make it a habit of emptying your pockets prior getting into your vehicle. You can be sure that your spare key is in the right place in case you need it.
Locks
Having a spare car key is a smart thing to do. spare car key cost will save you a lot of stress in the event that you lose your keys or lock them in the car. However, you should always keep your spare key in a secure place and put it somewhere easy to find. You can leave it in a key holder on the wall or in a drawer of your kitchen.
The type of lock that you put on your vehicle will also influence the cost of a replacement key. Keys that are traditional, which slide into the lock and open the doors to the car and are more affordable to replace than smart key fobs which emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock the car or start it from an extended distance.
If you lose your smart keys, you'll have to visit a locksmith or dealership to get a replacement. These specialists will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle, and may require providing proof such as the registration number or title.
In the past the time of car keys being lost, it was not a major issue. With the advancements in technology of automobiles, it's not as easy to get a spare. You'll need to either visit an authorized dealer or locksmith to have a new one made and it can be costly. Here are some suggestions to assist you in estimating the cost of a new spare car key.
Dealership
It's essential to keep an extra car key in your pocket in case you lose your keys or they were stolen. It can save you time and money in the long time. It also helps you avoid having to call a truck in the event that you are stuck with no key. There are a few options to obtain keys that can be replaced, including dealerships, locksmiths, and online services. The options are varied in terms of cost and accessibility, so you should research before deciding.
The kind of key you require can also affect the price. Traditional keys are relatively cheap and simple to replace. Keys with more advanced features are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start, may require specific components, which are difficult to locate or make. It is important to keep a record of your immobilizer code and the number of your key, which will help to reduce the overall cost.
The most reliable way to get an extra car key is to go to the dealership that sells your vehicle's model. This will ensure that you have a key that is compatible with the car's system and is programmed properly. It can be more expensive than other alternatives, but it is the most surefire way to ensure that you have a functioning key whenever you need it. It is also the only way to get keys for some of the latest models.