How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It can be a major inconvenience to lose your car keys. It's important to keep an extra key in case you lose or break your primary key. How much does it cost to purchase a spare car key?
The answer depends on several factors. This article will help you determine if it's worth having a spare made.
Make
It's always a good idea to keep a spare car key, since losing a car key can be expensive and stressful. However, the cost of having a spare key could differ depending on the model and make and the type of key you have.
For instance, keys that are basic with no technology will be cheaper to replace as they require a simple cutting from a blank and do not need specialized encoders. A key that is incorporated into a car fob, or has a chip, will require programming and will be more expensive.
If you lose your only key the first step is to find a locksmith that has an equipment that can program your type of key. Alternately, you could try to save money by having the new key cut and programming it yourself. The process for doing this is outlined in your owner's manual or you can go on the internet for "how to program (your year, make, and model) key." This could help you save $150 or more.
Model
The model number of your vehicle will determine the cost of the spare key. If you require an replacement key for a luxury model or a premium vehicle, the cost will be higher. The type of materials used to manufacture keys also affects the cost. For instance, it will cost less to replace an uncut key than a complete key that has an integrated fob. Many dealers can cut and program a third-party key for you if you prefer to save money.
Year
A spare car key is crucial, especially if your children are young and could be locked out of the car. You can obtain a spare car key in various ways, such as visiting the dealership that you purchased your car from or hiring an auto locksmith or purchasing one from the internet. Each has its own costs and benefits. You should take into consideration the type of key and the lock type before making a choice. The more expensive a particular brand is, the greater the price.
Type of key
A spare key can allow you to avoid being stranded in the event that you lose your primary car keys. However the cost of having a spare car key can differ greatly based on the type of lock your vehicle is using and the type of key you have.
Traditional mechanical keys that work by inserting them into an ignition cylinder can be cut down for just $10 at a hardware store or locksmith. Chip keys, also known as transponder keys, are more expensive and feature small chips that communicate to the vehicle to confirm the keys are valid. These types of keys are only able to be duplicated in dealerships as they have 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 a new key. These features are useful for those who tend to lose your 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 place and establish a routine of emptying your pockets before getting into your car. You can be sure your spare key is available when you need to use it.
Locks
A spare car key can be a wise decision. It will save you a lot of trouble if you lose your keys or have them locked in your car. Keep your spare keys in a safe place and easy to find. You can put it in a key holder that is on the wall or in a drawer in your kitchen.
spare car key cutting of locks on your car can also affect the cost of replacing the spare key. Keys that are traditional, which slide into a lock and open the doors of your car and are more affordable to replace than smart key fobs which emit an electronic code that lets you unlock the car or start it from the distance.
If you lose your smart key, you'll require an establishment or locksmith for a replacement. They will have to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle, which could require proof of ownership like the registration or title.
In the past it wasn't such a big deal to lose your car keys. However, with the advancements in technology in cars, it's not as simple to get a spare. spare car key fob 'll have to go to an auto dealer or a locksmith to get a new one made for you, and that can be costly. Here are some tips to help you determine the cost to have a spare car key made.
Dealership
Whether you lost your car keys or were stolen, it's essential to have a spare key on your side. You'll save time and money in the long run. It also prevents you from having to call a tow truck in the event that you are stuck without a key. There are several options to obtain a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. The options are varied in terms of cost and ease of use therefore you must research before deciding.
The cost will also be contingent on the type of key that you need. Keys that are traditional are inexpensive and simple to replace. More advanced keys are more expensive. Certain features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start might require special components, which are harder to locate or create. It is important to keep an accurate record of your immobilizer's code and the number of your key that will help reduce the overall cost.
The most secure method to obtain an extra 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 systems and is programmed properly. It can be more expensive than other alternatives, but it is the most reliable method to ensure that you have a working key whenever you need it. It is also typically the only way to obtain the key for certain more recent vehicles.