How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
Losing your car keys can be a major hassle and it's essential to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break the one you have. But how much does a spare key for your vehicle cost?
The answer is contingent on a myriad of factors. This article will help you determine if it's worth having an extra made.
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The idea of having a spare key for your vehicle is always a good idea as losing one can be a costly and stressful experience. However, auto key spares of having a spare key may differ based on the vehicle's make and model, as well as the kind of key.
For example, basic keys with no technology will be cheaper to replace as they only require a simple cutting from an empty piece of paper and do not need specialized encoding. However, a key that is fitted with an auto fob or a transponder chip will have to be programmed by experts and can increase the cost.
If you have lost your key, your first step should be to locate a local locksmith who has a tool that can program your kind of key. Alternatively, you can attempt to save money by having the new key cut and programming it yourself. You can locate the procedure in your owner's guide or on the internet 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 car influences the cost of a spare key. If you require an replacement key for a luxurious model or a premium vehicle the price will be more expensive. The cost is also influenced by the type of material used in the making of the key. It is cheaper to replace a blank key than one with an integrated key fob. If you're looking to save money, a lot of dealerships will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.
Year
A spare car key is essential, especially if your children are young and may lock themselves inside the vehicle. There are a variety of ways to get an extra key, which includes going to the dealership where you purchased your vehicle, using an auto locksmith, or getting one on the internet. Each option comes with its own set of costs and advantages. Before you make a decision, you should consider the type and style of lock. Generally speaking, the more expensive the lock, the higher the cost will be.
Type of key
Having a spare key can prevent you from being stuck in the event you lose the car keys you use for your primary. The cost of a spare key for your car could differ based on the type of lock and key you have.
Keys that are mechanically made and work by inserting them into the ignition cylinder can be cut down for as little as $10 at the hardware store or locksmith. Chip keys or transponder keys are more expensive and have small chips that communicate with the vehicle to confirm the authenticity of the key. Dealerships are the only places where you can duplicate these keys, as they have all of the necessary 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 are beneficial if you are prone to losing your keys, or place them in a strange location, but they can also increase the likelihood of theft. You might want to think about leaving your spare keys in a separate place and making it a routine to empty your pockets of anything you don't require before you get into your car. This way, you'll be sure that your spare key will be in your possession in case you need it.
Locks
A spare car key could be a wise choice. You can save yourself many headaches if you lock your keys inside the car or lose them. Keep your spare key somewhere safe and easily accessible. It can be put in a key holder placed on the wall or in a drawer in your kitchen.
The type of locks on your car will also affect the cost of replacing the spare key. The cost of replacing traditional keys that open the car door by inserting into the lock is less than the cost of replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs generate an electronic code that allows you to open the car or start it from a distance.
If you have lost your smart keys, you'll need to visit a locksmith or dealership to get a replacement. They will verify that you have the vehicle. It may be necessary for you to present proof such as the title or registration.
In the past, losing your car keys was not a major issue. With the advancements in technology of cars, it is not as easy to get an extra. You'll need to visit a dealer or a locksmith to have a brand new key made for you and it could be expensive. Here are a few tips to assist you in estimating the cost of purchasing a new spare car key.
Dealership
It's essential to keep an extra car key on hand 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 prevents you from having to call a truck if you're stuck without a key. There are a few options to obtain keys that can be replaced, including dealerships, locksmiths, and online services. The options are varied in terms of cost and ease of use therefore you must research them before making a decision.
The kind of key you require can also affect the price. Keys of the traditional type are cheap and simple to replace. More advanced keys are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start might require special components, which are difficult to find or manufacture. It is essential to keep a record of your immobilizer code and the number of your key which will help reduce the overall cost.
Visit the dealer that sells the model of your vehicle to get a spare key. This will ensure that you have a key compatible with your car's system and is properly programmed. It's more expensive however, you'll be sure to have a key that works when you need one. It is also the only way to obtain keys for some of the latest models.