How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys could be a major hassle and it's important to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break the one you have. But what is a spare key for your car cost?
The answer will depend on several factors. This article will explore these factors to determine if it's worth having a spare key made.
Make
It's always a good idea to keep an extra car key as losing a key can be expensive and stressful. However, the cost of having a spare key can vary depending on your vehicle's model and make and also the type of key you have.
Basic keys, like, that do not contain any technology, are cheaper to replace because they only require the simple cutting of an empty. They also don't need special encoding. However keys that are fitted with a car fob or has a transponder chip will have to be programmed by specialists, which can increase the cost.
If you've lost your primary key the first step is to locate an authorized locksmith with an equipment that can program your particular type of key. Alternatively, you can try to save money by having the new key cut and programming it yourself. You can find the process in the owner's manual, or go online to search for "how do I program (your year model and year of manufacture) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model of your vehicle will determine the cost of a spare key. For instance, if you require a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the cost will be higher than that of an entry-level car. The cost can also be affected by the kind of material used in the making of the key. It is less expensive to replace a blank rather than one with an integrated key fob. Many dealerships can also cut and program a third-party key for you, if you want to save money.
Year
A spare car key is essential especially if your kids are young and could be locked out of the car. You can purchase a spare car key in several ways, including by going to the dealership you bought your vehicle from, hiring an auto locksmith or ordering one online. Each option has its own costs and advantages. You must be aware of the type of key you want and the lock type prior to making a choice. The more expensive a brand is, the higher the cost.
Type of key
A spare key can allow you to avoid being without a place to go when you lose your main car keys. However the cost of a spare car key can differ greatly based on the type of lock your vehicle uses and the kind of key you have.
Traditional purely mechanical keys that function by inserting them into an ignition cylinder can be cut down for less than $10 at an establishment like a locksmith or hardware store. Chip keys, also known as transponder keys, are more expensive and have tiny chips that talk with the vehicle to verify that the key is valid. Dealerships are the only place where you can duplicate these keys, as they have all of the necessary equipment to program them.
Other advanced systems like remote starters or mirror folding can make it more expensive for a key replacement. These extra features are useful if you're prone to misplacing your keys or have a tendency to leave them in strange places but they also increase the likelihood of theft. You might want to think about placing a spare key in a different location and making it a habit to empty your pockets of any items you don't need prior to getting into your vehicle. You can be sure that your spare key is there when you need to use it.
Locks
The idea of having a spare car key is a smart idea. You can save yourself a lot of trouble if you lock your keys inside the car or lose them. Keep your spare key somewhere safe and easy to find. It can be put in a key holder on the wall or in a drawer in your kitchen.
The type of lock you have on your vehicle can affect the cost of a replacement key. The cost of replacing the traditional keys that unlock the car door by inserting them into the lock is less expensive than replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs generate an electronic code that allows you to open the car or start it from the distance.
If you lose your smart key, then you'll need to go to an establishment or locksmith for an alternative. They will have to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle, which could require proof of ownership such as the registration or title.
In the past it wasn't a huge deal to lose your car keys. With the technological advancements of cars, it is not as easy to get an extra. It can be costly to get a new key made by a locksmith or dealer. Here are some tips to help you determine how much it will cost to get a spare car key made .
Dealership
It's important to keep an extra car key on hand regardless of whether you lost your keys or were stolen. You'll save time and money in the long term. It also prevents you from needing to call a tow truck if you're stuck without a key. There are a few alternatives to get an alternative key, such as dealerships, locksmiths, and online services. You must compare the cost and convenience of these options before making a decision.
The cost will also depend on the type of key that you require. 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, and remote start, might require specific components that are more difficult to find or manufacture. You should keep a record of the immobilizer's number, along with your key number. This will help you to save money.
Visit the dealership that sells the name of your vehicle to get an extra key. This will ensure that you have a key compatible with your car's systems and has been programmed correctly. It may cost more than other options, but it is the most surefire way to ensure that you have a functioning key in case you require it. In addition, it is usually the only way to get the key for certain more recent vehicles.