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 one spare 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 help you decide if it's worth having an extra made.
Make
A spare key for your car is always a good idea since losing a key can be a stressful and costly experience. But the cost of having a spare key could vary depending on your vehicle's model and make, as well as the kind of key you have.
Basic keys, for example, that do not contain any technology, are cheaper to replace since they require an easy cut from the blank. They also don't need specialized encoding. A key that is incorporated into a car fob, or has a chip, will require programming and will cost more.
If you've lost your only key, your first step should be to locate a locksmith in your area with a computer that can program the type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. The procedure for doing this is outlined in the owner's manual or you can look online for "how to program (your year model, make, and year) key." This could help you save around $150 or more.
Model
The model of your vehicle will determine the cost of the spare key. For instance, if you require a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the cost will be higher than for an entry-level vehicle. The type of materials used to make keys also affects the cost. It is more affordable to replace a blank rather than a key with an integrated key fob. If you're looking to save money, many dealerships will also cut and program third-party keys for you.
Year
A spare car key is essential especially if your kids are young and could be locked out of the car. You can obtain an extra car key in several ways, including by visiting the dealership that you bought your vehicle from or by hiring an auto locksmith or ordering one online. Each method has the associated costs and advantages. Before making a choice you must consider the type and style of lock. The more expensive a particular brand is, the more expensive the cost.
Key type
A spare key can allow you to avoid being stranded when you lose your main car keys. The cost of a spare key for your car can differ based on the type of lock and key that you own.
Traditional purely mechanical keys that work by inserting them into an ignition cylinder can be cut for just $10 at the hardware store or locksmith. The more expensive alternatives keys, also known as transponder keys or chip keys, are equipped with a tiny electronic chip inside the head that communicates with the vehicle to confirm it's a valid key. Dealerships are the only ones where you can duplicate keys, since they are equipped with all the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced features, such as remote starters and mirror folding options, could be a factor in the overall cost of a new key. These features are helpful in the event that you lose keys or leave keys in strange places, but can also increase the likelihood of theft. You might want to think about placing a spare key in a separate place and making it a routine to clear your pockets of any items you don't need before getting into your car. This way, you'll ensure that your spare key will be in your possession whenever you require it.
Locks
A spare car key can be a wise decision. You'll save yourself lots of hassle by locking your keys inside the car or lose them. You should keep your spare keys in a safe place and easily accessible. i need a spare key for my car can put it in a key holder that is on the wall or in a drawer of your kitchen.
The type of lock you have 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 are less expensive to replace than smart key fobs, that emit an electronic code that lets you unlock the car or start it from a distance.
If you lose your smart keys you'll need to go to a locksmith or dealer to get an alternative. These specialists will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle, and may require proof such as the registration or title.
In the past the time of car keys being lost, it was not a major issue. With the technological advancements of automobiles, it's not as easy to get a spare. It can be expensive to have a new key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some guidelines to help you determine the cost to have a spare car key made.
Dealership
It's essential to keep a spare car key handy regardless of whether you lost your keys or were stolen. It will save you money and time in the long in the long run. It also helps you avoid having to call a tow truck in the event that you are stuck with no key. There are a variety of options for getting keys that can be replaced, including dealerships, locksmiths, and online services. These options differ in cost and ease of use and you should investigate before deciding.
The type of key you need will also impact the price. Keys of the traditional type, also known as basic keys, are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace, while more sophisticated keys are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start might require special components that are more difficult to locate or make. You should keep a record of the immobilizer code, as well as your key number. This will allow you save money.
Visit the dealer that sells the model of your vehicle to obtain a spare key. This will ensure that you have a key compatible with the car's system and is properly programmed. It can be more expensive than other options, however it is the most reliable way to ensure that you have a working key whenever you need it. Additionally, it is typically the only way to obtain the key for certain more recent vehicles.