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 a spare in case you break or lose your primary key. But how much does an extra key for your car cost?
The answer depends on a myriad of factors. This article will help you determine whether it's worth having an extra made.
Make
A spare key for your car is always a good idea, since losing one could be a costly and stressful experience. However, the cost of having a spare key could vary depending on your vehicle's make and model, as well as the kind of key.
For instance, keys that are basic with no technology will be cheaper to replace because they require only a simple cut from a blank 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 key, the 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. You can find the process in the owner's manual, or on the internet for "how do I program (your year, make, and model) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model of your vehicle determines the cost of a spare car key. If you require an replacement key for a high-end model or a premium car, the cost will be more expensive. The type of materials used to manufacture the key also impacts the cost. For instance, it will cost less to replace an uncut key than a complete key with an integrated fob. A lot of dealerships will cut and program a key from a third party for you, if you want to save money.
Year
It is crucial to have a spare car key, especially if you have young children who might be locked in the car. There are a variety of ways to get a spare key, including visiting the dealership from which you bought your vehicle, using an auto locksmith, or getting one on the internet. Each option comes with its own costs and advantages. Before making a decision you must consider the type and style of lock. In general the more expensive the brand, the higher the cost will be.
Type of key
A spare key will help you avoid being left without a place to go when you lose your main car keys. The cost of a spare key for your car can vary depending on the type lock and key that you have.
Keys that are mechanically made and are operated by inserting them into an ignition cylinder can be cut for just $10 at a hardware store or locksmith. recommended you read or transponder keys are more costly and include tiny chips that talk with the vehicle to verify that the key is valid. These 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 can also increase the cost of the replacement of keys. These features are useful in the event that you lose your keys or put them in odd places, but they also increase the risk for theft. Consider leaving a spare in a different location and establish a routine of emptying your pockets before getting into your car. This way, you'll be sure that your spare key will be there when you need it.
Locks
A spare car key could be a wise choice. It can save you a lot of hassle when you lose your keys or have them locked in the car. However, you must keep your spare key in a secure place and put it somewhere easily accessible. You can leave it in a key holder placed on the wall or in a drawer in your kitchen.
The type of lock you have on your vehicle will also impact the cost of replacing a spare key. Keys that are traditional, which slide into a lock and then open the car doors, are cheaper to replace than smart key fobs that emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock the car or start it from an extended distance.
If you lose your smart keys, you'll need to go to a locksmith or dealer to get an alternative. They will have to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle, which could require proof such as the registration number or title.
In the past it wasn't such a big problem to lose your car keys. But with technological advancements in cars, it's no longer as simple to get an extra. It can be costly to get a new car key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some tips to help you determine the cost to have a spare car key made.
Dealership
It is essential to keep an extra car key in your pocket regardless of whether you lost your keys or were stolen. You can save time and money in the long term. It also prevents you from having to call a truck in the event that you are stuck with no key. There are several options to obtain keys that can be replaced, including locksmiths, dealerships, and online services. You must compare the cost and convenience of these choices before making a decision.
The cost will also depend on the type of key you require. Keys of the traditional type, also known as basic keys are inexpensive and easy to replace, whereas more advanced keys are more expensive. Some features, like mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start may require special components that are more difficult to locate or make. Keep a record of the immobilizer code, and also your key number. This will allow you to save money.
Visit the dealership that sells the name of your vehicle to obtain an extra key. You will get an appropriate key that is compatible with the vehicle's system, and that has been programmed correctly. It can be more expensive than other alternatives, but it is the most surefire method to ensure that you have a functioning key whenever you need it. It is also the only method to get an authentic key for certain modern models.