How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It can be a major inconvenience to lose your car keys. It's essential to keep one spare in the event that you lose or break your primary key. How much does it cost to purchase a spare car key?
The answer is contingent on a variety of factors. This article will help you decide whether it's worth having an extra made.
Make
It's always a good idea to keep an extra car key as losing a key can be costly and stressful. The cost of the spare car key is depending on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as its type.
Basic keys, for instance ones that don't contain any technology are cheaper to replace since they require the simple cutting of an empty. They don't require specialized encoding. A key that is incorporated into a car fob, or has a chip will require programming, and will cost more.
If you have lost your sole key the first step is to find an authorized locksmith with the ability to program your type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. The procedure for doing this will be outlined in the owner's manual or you can search on the internet for "how to program (your year model, make, and year) key." This can help you save $150 or more.
Model
The model number of your car determines the cost of an extra car key. For example, if you need a replacement key for a luxury or premium model, the cost will be higher than that of an entry-level vehicle. The cost is also influenced by the kind of material used to create the key. It is less expensive to replace a blank key than one with an integrated key fob. If you're looking to save money, many dealers will also cut and program third-party keys for you.
Year
A spare car key is essential especially if your kids are still young and might be locked out of the car. There are many ways to get a spare key, including visiting the dealership where you purchased your car, using an auto locksmith, or obtaining one online. Each comes with its own cost and benefits. Before you make a decision, you should consider both the type and type of lock. The more expensive a brand is, the greater the price.
Type of key
A spare key can prevent you from being stuck in the event you lose your primary car keys. However, the cost of the spare car key may differ greatly based on the lock type your vehicle is using as well as the kind of key you have.
Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys, which work by inserting the key into the ignition cylinder. They can cost less than $10. The more expensive alternative keys, also known as transponder keys or chip keys, are equipped with a tiny electronic chip inside the head that communicates with the vehicle to verify that it is a genuine key. Dealerships are the only place that can duplicate these keys as they have all of the necessary equipment to program them.
Other advanced features, such as remote starters or mirror folding options, may also increase the total cost of a new key. These options are beneficial if you tend to lose your keys or place them in odd places, but they also increase the risk for theft. Consider putting your spare keys in a different spot and establish a routine of emptying your pockets before getting into your vehicle. You can be sure your spare key is available whenever you need it.
Locks
A spare car key can be a wise decision. It will save you a lot of hassle when you lose your keys or lock them in your car. But, it is important to keep your spare keys in a secure location, and leave it somewhere that is easily accessible. It can be put in a key holder on the wall or in a drawer in your kitchen.
The type of lock on your vehicle will also influence the cost of replacing a key. The cost of replacing traditional keys that open the car door by inserting them into the lock is less than the cost of replacing smart key fobs. make a spare key emit an electronic code which allows you to unlock your car or start it from the distance.
If you lose your smart keys you'll have to visit a locksmith or dealership to get an alternative. These specialists will verify that you have ownership of the vehicle. This may require you to provide proof like the title or registration.
In the past it wasn't such a big deal to lose your car keys. However, with the technological advances in cars, it's not as easy to get an extra. You'll have to go to an authorized dealer or locksmith to have a brand new one made for you and it can be expensive. Here are some suggestions to assist you in estimating the cost of a brand new spare car key.
Dealership
It's important to keep an extra car key on hand in case you lose your keys or they were stolen. It can save you time and money in the long time. You will also avoid having to request a tow in the event that you find yourself stranded without a key. You have a few options to get a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. You must compare the cost and ease of these options before making a choice.
The type of key you require can also affect the price. Keys of the traditional type are cheap and easy to replace. More sophisticated 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 create. Keep a log of the immobilizer's code as well as your key number. This will help you to save money.
Visit the dealership that sells the model of your vehicle to get a spare key. This will ensure that you have a key that is compatible with your car's systems and has been programmed correctly. It's more expensive, however, you'll be sure to have a key that works when you require it. It is also the only method to get a key for certain newer models.