How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys can be a huge inconvenience and it's essential to have an extra key in case you lose or break the one you have. How much will it cost to buy a replacement car key?
The answer will depend on a number of factors. This article will look at the factors that will help you decide whether it's worth having a spare key created.
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Having a spare car key is always a good idea since losing a key can be a stressful and costly experience. However, spare car keys of having a spare key could vary depending on your vehicle's make and model, as well as the kind of key.
For instance, simple keys that do not have any technology will be less expensive to replace since they require a simple cutting from a blank and do not require specialized encoders. However, a key that is connected to an auto fob or transponder chips will have to be programmed by experts which will increase the cost.
If you have lost your sole key the first step is to locate a locksmith that has an equipment that can program your particular 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 your owner's guide or search online for "how do I program (your year model and year of manufacture) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model number of your vehicle will determine the cost of the spare key. If you need a key replacement for a high-end model or a premium car, the cost will be higher. The cost is also influenced by the type of material used to make the key. It is less expensive to replace a blank than the key that has an integrated key 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 young children who may get locked out of the car. There are a variety of ways to get an extra key, such as visiting the dealership from which you bought your car, using an auto locksmith, or getting one online. Each method has its own set of costs and advantages. You must be aware of the type of key you want and the lock type prior to making a decision. The more expensive a brand is, the greater the cost.
Key type
Having a spare key can prevent you from being stuck in the event that you lose your car keys. The cost of a spare key for your car can vary based on the type of lock and key that you own.
Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys that function by inserting the key into the cylinder of ignition. These keys cost less than $10. Transponder keys or chip keys are more expensive and have small chips that communicate with the vehicle to confirm the keys are valid. These kinds of keys can only be duplicated by dealerships, since they have the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems, such as remote starters and mirror folding options, could be a factor in the overall cost of a new key. These extra features can be useful if you're prone to losing your keys, or have a tendency to leave them in odd places however, they also increase the chance of theft. Consider putting your spare keys in a different location and make it a habit of emptying your pockets before getting into your vehicle. You can be sure that your spare key is in the right place in case you need it.
Locks
A spare car key is a smart idea. You'll avoid lots of hassle if you lock your keys in the car or lose them. It is recommended to keep your spare key somewhere secure and easy to locate. For example, a wall-mounted key holder or an open drawer in your kitchen are good places to put it.
The type of locks on your car can also affect the cost of replacing keys that are spare. The cost of replacing traditional keys that open the car's door by inserting them into the lock is cheaper than the cost of replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs transmit an electronic code that enables you to open the car or start it from the distance.
If you lose your smart keys, you'll need to visit a locksmith or dealer to obtain an alternative. They will verify that you have the vehicle. It may be necessary for you to show proof of ownership like the registration or title.
In the past, losing your car keys was not a big deal. However, with the advancements in technology in cars, it's no longer as easy to get a spare. You'll need to visit an auto dealer or a locksmith to have a brand new key made for you and it can be expensive. Here are a few tips to aid you in estimating the cost of a brand new spare car key.
Dealership
It's important to keep a spare car key handy in case you lose your keys or were stolen. It can save you money and time in the long time. It also helps you avoid needing to call a tow truck if you are stranded without a key. There are a few options to obtain an alternative key, such as dealerships, locksmiths, and online services. These options vary in price and convenience and you should investigate before deciding.
The cost will also depend on the type of key that you need. Traditional keys are relatively cheap and simple to replace. More sophisticated keys are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start might require special components, which are difficult to locate or create. spare keys for cars to have an inventory of your immobilizer code and the number of your key which will help reduce the overall costs.
Visit the dealer that sells the brand of your vehicle to obtain a spare key. You'll receive keys that are compatible with the system of your vehicle and has been programmed correctly. It may cost more than other options, however it is the most reliable way to ensure that you have a working key when you need it. It is also the only way to obtain an authentic key for certain modern models.