How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It's an enormous inconvenience to lose your car keys. It is essential to have an extra key in case you lose or break your primary key. What is the cost of a spare key for your vehicle cost?
The answer will depend on several factors. This article will examine the factors that will determine if it's worth having a spare key created.
Make
Having a spare car key is always a good idea since losing one could be a stressful and costly experience. However, the cost of having a spare key may differ based on the vehicle's make and model and the kind of key you have.
For instance, keys that are basic that do not have any technology will be cheaper to replace since they require a simple cutting from a blank and do not require specialized encoding. However, a key that is integrated with a car fob or has transponder chips will have to be programmed by specialists and will increase the price.
If you have lost your sole key, your first step is to locate a locksmith in your area with a computer that can program your type of key. Alternately, you could attempt to save money by having a new key cut and programming it yourself. You can find the procedure in the owner's manual, 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 influences the price of an extra car key. For instance, if require a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the cost will be higher than for an entry-level vehicle. The type of material used to manufacture the key will also impact the cost. For instance, it will cost less to replace an uncut key than a key that is complete with an integrated fob. Many dealers can cut and program a key from a different company for you if you prefer to save money.
Year
A spare car key is crucial, especially if your children are still young and might lock themselves inside the vehicle. There are several options to obtain an extra key, which includes visiting the dealership from which you purchased your vehicle, using an auto locksmith, or obtaining one online. Each method has its own set of costs and advantages. You should take into consideration the type of key and the lock type prior to making a choice. The more expensive a particular brand is, the more expensive the cost.
Type of key
A spare key can help you avoid being stuck in the event that you lose your car keys. The cost of having a spare key for your car could vary based on the type of lock and key that you own.
Keys that are mechanically made and function by inserting them into an ignition cylinder, they can be cut for less than $10 at the hardware store or locksmith. The more expensive alternatives keys, also known as transponder keys or chip keys, have a small electronic chip inside the key head that communicates with the vehicle to verify that it is a genuine key. These types of keys can only be duplicated at dealerships, as they have the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems, such as remote starters and mirror folding options, can also add to the overall cost of a replacement key. These options are beneficial in the event that you lose your keys or put them in odd places, however, they can also increase the risk for theft. Consider leaving a spare in a different location and establish a routine of emptying your pockets before getting into your car. You can be certain that your spare key is there when you need to use it.
Locks
Having a spare car key is a smart thing to do. It can save you a lot of stress when you lose your keys or have them locked in the car. But, it is important to keep your spare key in a secure location, and leave it somewhere that is easy to find. You can put it in a key holder that is on the wall or in a drawer of your kitchen.
The type of locks on your car will also affect the cost of replacing keys that are spare. The cost of replacing traditional keys that open the car's door by inserting into the lock is less expensive than the cost of replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs transmit an electronic code that allows you to unlock the car or start it from the distance.
If you have lost your smart keys, you'll need to visit a locksmith or dealership to obtain an alternative. These specialists will verify that you have ownership of the vehicle. This could require you to present proof like the registration or title.
In spare remote car key wasn't such a big problem to lose your car keys. However, with the technological advances in automobiles, it's not as easy to find an extra. You'll need to visit a dealer or a locksmith to have a new key made for you and it can be expensive. Here are some suggestions to help you estimate the cost of a brand new spare car key.
Dealership
It's essential to keep an extra car key in your pocket, whether you lost your keys or were stolen. You'll save money and time in the long term. It also prevents you from having to call a truck if you're stuck without a key. There are several options to obtain a replacement key, including locksmiths, dealerships and online services. The options are varied in terms of cost and ease of use therefore you must research them before making a decision.
The cost will also be contingent on the type of key that you require. Keys of the traditional type, also known as basic keys, are affordable and simple to replace, whereas more advanced keys are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start, may require specific components that are more difficult to find or manufacture. You should keep a record of the immobilizer's code and also your key number. This will allow you to save money.
The most reliable way to obtain an extra car key is to visit the dealer that sells the brand of your car. You'll get an appropriate key that is compatible with the vehicle's system and is programmed correctly. It is more expensive, but you will be sure to have a key that works in the event that you require one. It is also the only method to get an authentic key for certain modern models.
