How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys can be a huge hassle, and it's important to have a spare key in case you lose or break your primary one. But what is an extra key for your car cost?
The answer will depend on several factors. This article will examine these factors to determine if it's worth having a spare key created.
Make
A spare car key is always a good idea, as losing one can be a stressful and costly experience. The cost of a spare car key varies dependent on the brand and model of the vehicle, as well as the type of car.
For example, basic keys that contain no technology will be less expensive to replace because they require only a simple cut from an empty piece of paper and do not require specialized encoders. A key that is integrated into a car fob, or is equipped with a chip will need to be programmed, and will cost more.
If you've lost your primary key, the first step is to locate an authorized locksmith with a machine capable of programming the type of key you want. Alternately, you could try to save money by having a new key cut and then programming it yourself. You can find the procedure in your owner's guide or on the internet 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 determines the cost of the spare car key. For instance, if you require a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the price will be more expensive than for an entry-level car. The kind of material used to manufacture the key also impacts the cost. It is cheaper to replace a blank than a key with an integrated key fob. If you want to save money, several 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 young children who could get locked out of the car. There are a variety of options to obtain an extra key, which includes visiting the dealership where you purchased your automobile, utilizing an auto locksmith, or obtaining one on the internet. Each method has its own costs and advantages. It is important to take into consideration the type of lock and the lock type before making a decision. The more expensive a brand is, the greater the cost.
Key type
A spare key will help you avoid being left without a place to go if you lose your main car keys. The cost of a spare key for your car can vary based on the type of lock and key you own.
Hardware stores and locksmiths can cut mechanical keys that work by inserting the key into the cylinder for ignition. The cost of these keys is as little as $10. The more expensive alternative chip keys, also known as transponder keys, contain a tiny electronic chip in the key head that communicates with the vehicle to confirm it's a valid key. These kinds of keys can only be duplicated by dealerships, as they have the equipment required to program them.
Other advanced systems, like remote starters and mirror folding options, could also increase the total cost of a replacement key. These additional features can be beneficial if you are prone to misplacing your keys or have a tendency to place them in a strange location however, they also increase the likelihood of theft. Consider leaving a spare in a different location and make it a habit of emptying your pockets prior to getting into your vehicle. You can be sure your spare key is in the right place in case you need it.
Locks
The idea of having a spare car key is a smart thing to do. You'll avoid lots of hassle if you lock your keys in the car or lose them. Keep your spare key somewhere safe and easily accessible. You can leave it in a key holder placed on the wall or in a drawer of your kitchen.
The type of lock you have on your vehicle can also affect the cost of replacing a key. The cost of replacing traditional keys that unlock the car door by inserting into the lock is less than the cost of replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs transmit an electronic code that enables you to unlock the car or start it from an extended distance.
If you have lost your smart keys, you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or a dealership to obtain an alternative. The experts will confirm that you have ownership of the vehicle. This could require you to show proof of ownership such as the title or registration.
In the past the days of losing your car keys was not a major issue. But with technological advancements in cars, it's not as easy to get an extra. You'll need to either visit a dealer or a locksmith to have a new one made for you and it could be costly. Here are a few tips to assist you in estimating the cost of purchasing a new spare car key.
auto key spares to keep an extra car key in your pocket in case you lose your keys or were stolen. You can save money and time in the long term. It also prevents you from needing to call a tow 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. These options vary in price and ease of use, so you should research them before making a decision.
The type of key you require will also impact the price. Traditional keys are relatively cheap and easy to replace. Keys with more advanced features are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start, might require specific components that are more difficult to locate or manufacture. Keep a record of the immobilizer's code along with your key number. This will allow you save money.
Visit the dealership that sells the model of your vehicle to obtain a spare key. You will get a key that's compatible with your vehicle's system and has been programmed correctly. It is more expensive than other alternatives, but it is the best method to ensure that you have a functioning key in case you require it. It is also usually the only method to obtain keys for newer models of vehicles.