How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys could be a huge inconvenience and it's important to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break your primary one. What is the cost of a spare key for your vehicle cost?
The answer depends on a variety of factors. This article will look at those factors to determine if it's worth getting an extra key made.
Make
The idea of having a spare key for your vehicle is always a good idea since losing one could be a costly and stressful experience. However, the cost of having a spare key could differ based on the vehicle's model and make and the type of key you have.
For instance, simple keys that do not have any technology will be less expensive to replace since they only require a simple cutting from blanks and do not require specialized encoding. A key that is integrated into a car fob, or is equipped with a chip will require programming, and will cost more.
If you've lost your sole key, your first step is to locate a locksmith in your area who has a tool that can program your kind of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. You can find the process in your owner's guide or go online to search for "how do I program (your year make and model) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model number of your car determines the cost of a spare car key. If you require a key replacement for a high-end model or a premium vehicle the price will be higher. The type of materials used to manufacture the key will also impact the price. For instance, it will cost less to replace a blank key than a complete key that has an integrated fob. If you're looking to save money, many dealers will also cut and program third-party keys for you.
Year
It is important to have an extra car key, especially if you have children who may be locked in the car. There are many ways to get a spare key, including going to the dealership where you purchased your vehicle, using an auto locksmith, or obtaining one online. Each option comes with its own costs and advantages. Before spare keys for cars make a decision you must take into consideration the type and design of lock. Typically speaking the more expensive the brand is the more expensive the price will be.
Key type
A spare key can help you avoid being left in the event you lose your car keys. However the cost of an extra car key could differ greatly based on the lock type your vehicle is using as well as the type of key you own.
Traditional mechanical keys that work by inserting them into the ignition cylinder can be cut for just $10 at the hardware store or locksmith. The more expensive alternative, transponder 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 kinds of keys can only be duplicated in dealerships since they have the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced features, such as remote starters or mirror folding options, could be a factor in the overall cost of a new key. These additional features can be useful if you're prone to losing your keys, or have a tendency to leave them in odd places, but they can also increase the chance of theft. Consider leaving a spare in a different spot and making it a routine of emptying your pockets before getting into your car. This way, you'll ensure that your spare key will be in your possession in case you require it.
Locks
A spare car key could be a smart choice. It can save you a lot of trouble when you lose your keys or have them locked in the car. You should keep your spare key somewhere safe and easy to find. For instance, a wall-mounted key holder or the kitchen drawer are both good places to put it.
The type of lock you have on your vehicle will also influence the cost of replacing a key. Traditional keys, which insert into the lock and open the doors to the car are less expensive to replace than smart key fobs, that emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock or start your car from a distance.
If you lose your smart key, you'll have to visit a dealership or locksmith for an alternative. These specialists will verify that you own the vehicle. It may be necessary for you to show proof of ownership like the title or registration.
In the past the time of car keys being lost, it was not a major issue. But with technological advancements in automobiles, it's not as easy to find a spare. It can be expensive to have a new key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some tips to aid you in estimating the cost of a new spare car key.
Dealership
If you've lost your car keys or they were stolen, it's essential to keep a spare key on the side. It can save you money and time in the long in the long run. It also helps you avoid needing to call a tow truck if you are stranded with no key. There are a few options to obtain a replacement key, including locksmiths, dealerships, and online services. It is important to compare the costs and convenience of these options before deciding.
The kind of key you require will also impact the price. Keys that are traditional are inexpensive and simple to replace. Keys with more advanced features are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start may require special components, which are difficult to locate or create. It is important to keep a record of your immobilizer code and the key number which will help reduce the overall cost.
The most reliable way to find a spare car key is to visit the dealer that sells the brand of your car. This will ensure that you have a key that's compatible with your car's system and is properly programmed. It is more expensive than other alternatives, but it is the most reliable method of ensuring that you have a functioning key in case you require it. It is also typically the only way to get a key for some newer vehicles.