How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It's a huge inconvenience to lose your car keys. It's important to keep a spare in case you lose or break your primary key. But how much does an extra key for your vehicle cost?
The answer will depend on a number of factors. This article will explore the factors that will help you decide whether it's worth getting a spare key made.
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It is always a smart idea to keep a spare car key, since losing a key could be expensive and stressful. The cost of a spare car key varies dependent on the brand and model of your car, as well as its type.
For example, basic keys that contain no technology will be cheaper to replace as they only require a simple cutting from an empty piece of paper and do not require specialized encoders. A key that is incorporated into a car fob, or has a chip, will need to be programmed and will be more expensive.
If you've lost your primary key the first step is to locate an authorized locksmith with the ability to program your type of key. You can also attempt to save money by having the new key cut and then programming it yourself. You can find 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 vehicle determines the cost of the spare car key. For instance, if need a replacement key for a luxury or premium model, the price will be higher than for an entry-level vehicle. The cost is also influenced by the type of material used to create the key. It is more affordable to replace a blank than a key with an integrated key fob. If you want to save money, several dealerships will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.
Year
A spare car key is vital especially if your kids are young and could get locked inside the car. There are a variety of options to obtain an extra key, which includes going to the dealership where you purchased your car, using an auto locksmith, or getting one online. Each comes with its own costs and advantages. Before making a decision, you should consider the type and design of lock. Generally speaking the more expensive the lock the more expensive the price will be.
Key type
A spare key will allow you to avoid being in a bind 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 you own.
Hardware stores and locksmiths can cut mechanical keys, which operate by inserting the keys into the cylinder of ignition. The cost of these keys is as little as $10. Chip keys, also known as transponder keys, are more expensive and feature a small chip that communicates to the vehicle in order to confirm the key is valid. These types of keys can only be duplicated at dealerships, because they are equipped with the technology required to program them.
Other advanced systems, like remote starters and mirror folding options, could be a factor in the overall cost of replacing a key. These extra features are beneficial if you are prone to misplacing your keys or leave them in strange places however, they also increase the likelihood of theft. It's worth keeping your spare keys in a separate place and making it a habit to empty your pockets of any items you don't need before getting into your vehicle. This way, you can be sure that your spare key will be in your possession in case you require it.
Locks
A spare car key can be a smart choice. It can save you a lot of trouble if you lose your keys or if you lock them in your car. Keep your spare keys in a safe place and easy to locate. It can be put in a key holder that is on the wall or in a drawer of your kitchen.
The type of lock on your vehicle can also affect the cost of replacing a key. Traditional keys, which are inserted into a lock and then open the doors of your car and are more affordable to replace than smart key fobs which emit an electronic code that lets you unlock or start the car from a distance.
If you lose your smart key, you'll require the dealership or locksmith to get the replacement. The experts will confirm that you have ownership of the vehicle. It may be necessary for you to present proof such as the title or registration.
In the past the days of losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. With the advancements in technology for automobiles, it's not as simple to find an extra. It can be expensive to have a new key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some tips to help you determine the cost to get a replacement car key made.
Dealership
It's essential to keep an extra car key in your pocket in case you lose your keys or were stolen. It will save you time and money in the long run. It will also save you from having to request a tow in the event that you are stuck without a key. There are a few options for getting an alternative key, such as locksmiths, dealerships, and online services. These options differ in cost and convenience, so you should research the options before making a final decision.
The kind of key you require also affects the cost. Traditional keys are relatively cheap and simple to replace. More sophisticated keys are more expensive. Some features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start, might require specific components that are more difficult to find or manufacture. You should keep a record of the immobilizer's code along with your key number. This will allow you save money.
The most reliable method to obtain an extra car key is to go to the dealership that sells the brand of your car. This will ensure that you have a key that's compatible with your car's systems and is programmed properly. It can be more expensive than other options, however it is the most reliable method to ensure that you have a working key whenever you need it. It is also the only way to get keys for some of the latest models.