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 the event that you lose or break your primary key. What is the cost to buy a replacement car key?
The answer depends on several factors. This article will explore those factors to help you decide whether it's worth having a spare key made.
Make
It is always a smart idea to have a spare car key since losing a key could be expensive and stressful. The cost of an extra car key varies according to the make and model of your vehicle and also its type.
Basic keys, for example keys that do not have any technology are cheaper to replace as they require an easy cut from a blank. They also don't require an encoding system that is specialized. Keys that are integrated into a car fob, or has a chip will need to be programmed, and will cost more.
If you've lost your key, your first step should be to find a local locksmith who has a machine that can program the type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. You can find the procedure in the owner's manual or go online to search for "how do I program (your year make and model) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model number of your car influences the cost of a spare key. For instance, if you need a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the cost will be higher than for an entry-level car. The type of material used to manufacture keys also affects the price. It is more affordable to replace a blank key than one with an integrated key fob. If you want to save money, many dealers will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.
Year
It is crucial 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 going to the dealership where you bought your vehicle, using an auto locksmith, or getting one online. Each method has the associated costs and advantages. Before you make a decision, you should consider the type and style of lock. The more expensive a particular brand is, the more expensive the price.
Key type
A spare key can ensure that you don't end up without a place to go in the event that you lose your primary car keys. However the cost of the spare car key may vary greatly depending on the type of lock your vehicle is using and the type of key you own.
Traditional purely mechanical keys that function by inserting them into the ignition cylinder can be cut for less than $10 at the hardware store or locksmith. Transponder keys or chip keys are more costly and include small chips that communicate to the vehicle in order to verify that the key is valid. car key spare near me are the only place that can duplicate keys, because they have all the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems such as remote starters or mirror folding can make it more expensive for replacing keys. These additional features can be useful if you're susceptible to misplacing your keys or leave them in odd places, but they can also increase the chance of theft. Consider leaving a spare in a different location and establish a routine of emptying your pockets prior getting into your vehicle. This way, you'll be certain that your spare key will be in your possession in case you require it.
Locks
A spare car key could be a smart choice. It will save you a lot of trouble in the event that you lose your keys or if you lock them in the car. You should keep your spare keys in a safe place and easy to locate. For instance the wall-mounted key holder or the kitchen drawer are both good locations to store it.
The type of lock on your vehicle can affect the cost of a replacement 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 the distance.
If you lose your smart key, you will require a dealership or locksmith for the replacement. They will verify that you have ownership of the vehicle. This could require you to provide proof like the title or registration.
In the past it wasn't a huge problem to lose your car keys. But with technological advancements in cars, it's not as easy to get an extra. It can be costly to get a new key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some tips to help you estimate the cost of a new spare car key.
Dealership
It is essential to keep an extra car key on hand, whether you lost your keys or were stolen. It will save you time and money in the long time. You'll also not have to call for a tow if you find yourself stranded without a key. There are a variety of options for getting a replacement key, including locksmiths, dealerships and online services. It is important to compare the costs and convenience of these choices before deciding.
The cost will also depend on the type of key that you need. Traditional keys are relatively cheap and easy to replace. More advanced keys are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start, might require specific components that are more difficult to find or make. It's important to have a record of your immobilizer code and the key number that will help reduce the overall cost.
The most secure method to find a spare car key is to go to the dealer that sells your vehicle's brand. You'll get keys that are 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 reliable way to ensure that you have a functioning key when you need it. It is also the only method to get a key for certain newer models.