How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
Losing your car keys can be a major hassle and it's crucial to have a spare key in case you lose or break your primary one. How much does it cost to purchase a spare car key?
The answer will depend on several factors. This article will examine those factors to help you decide whether it's worth having a spare key made.
Make
It's always a good idea to keep a spare car key, since losing a key could be expensive and stressful. But the cost of having a spare key may differ based on the vehicle's make and model, as well as the type of key.
For instance, keys that are basic that contain no technology will be less expensive to replace because they require a simple cutting from an empty piece of paper and do not require specialized encoding. However, a key that is integrated with an auto fob or a transponder chip will have to be programmed by experts which can increase the cost.
If look at this website 've lost your primary key the first step is to find 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 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 number of your vehicle will determine the cost of a spare key. For instance, if you require a replacement key for a luxury or premium model, the cost will be higher than that of an entry-level vehicle. The type of material used to create keys also affects the price. It is cheaper to replace a blank rather than the key that has an integrated key fob. Many dealerships can also cut and program a key from a different company for you if you'd like to save money.
Year
It is crucial to have an extra car key, especially if you have young children who could lock themselves in the vehicle. You can purchase an extra car key in many ways, including visiting the dealership that you purchased your car from or employing an auto locksmith, or purchasing one from the internet. Each method has its own set of costs and benefits. Before making a decision, you should consider the type and design of lock. The more expensive a brand is, the greater the price.
Key type
Having a spare key can help you avoid being stranded in the event you lose your car keys. However the cost of having a spare car key can vary greatly depending on the type of lock your vehicle is using and the kind of key you have.
Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys that operate by inserting the keys into the cylinder for ignition. They can cost as little as $10. The more expensive alternatives, transponder or chip keys, are equipped with a tiny electronic chip inside the key head that communicates with the vehicle to verify it's a valid key. Dealerships are the only places that can duplicate keys, since they are equipped with all the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems such as remote starters or mirror folding can also make it more expensive for replacing keys. These extra features can be useful if you're prone to misplacing your keys or have a tendency to leave them in strange places, but they can also increase the chance of theft. You might want to consider putting a spare key in a different place and make it a habit of emptying your pockets prior to getting into your vehicle. This way, you'll ensure that your spare key will be there whenever you require it.
Locks
Having 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. However, you must keep your spare key in a secure place and put it somewhere easy to locate. For instance an affixed key holder on the wall or a drawer in your kitchen are great places to leave it.
The type of locks on your car will also affect the cost of replacing keys that are spare. Traditional keys, which are inserted into the lock and open the car doors, are cheaper to replace than smart key fobs, which emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock or start your car from the distance.
If you lose your smart key, you'll have to visit an establishment or locksmith for an alternative. These specialists will verify 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 big deal. With the advancements in technology for automobiles, it's not as easy to get a spare. You'll have to go to an auto dealer or a locksmith to have a new one made for you and it could be costly. Here are some suggestions to help you figure out how much it will cost to get a spare car key made.
Dealership
Whether you lost your car keys or they were stolen, it's important to keep a spare key on hand. You can save time and money in the long term. It also stops you from having to call a tow truck if you are stranded with no key. There are several options to obtain a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. These options differ in cost and ease of use, so you should research the options before making a final decision.
The type of key you need can also affect the price. Traditional keys are relatively cheap and easy to replace. More advanced keys are more expensive. Some features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start, may require specific components that are more difficult to locate or make. Keep a log of the immobilizer code, and also your key number. This will allow you to save money.
Visit the dealership that sells the brand of your car to purchase a spare key. This will ensure that you have a key compatible with the car's system and is programmed properly. It can be more expensive than other alternatives, but it is the most surefire method of ensuring that you have a functioning key when you need it. Additionally, it is typically the only method to obtain a key for some newer vehicles.