How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys could be a huge inconvenience and it's crucial to have a spare key in case you lose or break your primary one. How much does it cost to buy a replacement car key?
The answer depends on a variety of factors. This article will help you decide if it's worth having an extra.
Make
The idea of having a spare key for your vehicle is always a good idea since losing a key can be a costly and stressful experience. But the cost of having a spare key could vary depending on your vehicle's make and model and the kind of key.
Basic keys, like keys that do not have any technology, are cheaper to replace because they only require an easy cut from a blank. They also don't require specialized encoding. A key that is integrated into a car fob or is equipped with a chip will require programming, and will cost more.
If you lose your only key the first step is to locate a locksmith that has a machine capable of programming your particular type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. You can find the procedure in your owner's guide or on the internet for "how do I program (your year, make, and model) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model of your vehicle determines the cost of an extra key. For instance, if you need a replacement key for a luxury or premium model, the price will be more expensive than for an entry-level vehicle. The type of material used to make the key also impacts the price. It is less expensive to replace a blank key than a key with an integrated key fob. Many dealers can cut and program a key from a different company for you, if you want to save money.
Year
A spare car key is crucial especially if your kids are young and may lock themselves inside the vehicle. There are many options to obtain a spare key, including visiting the dealership from which you purchased your car, using an auto locksmith, or getting one on the internet. Each option comes with the associated costs and advantages. Before making a choice, you should consider both the type and type of lock. Typically speaking the more expensive the lock and the more expensive it will be.
Type of key
Having a spare key can prevent you from being left in the event that you lose the car keys you use for your primary. However the cost of having the spare car key may vary greatly depending on the lock type your vehicle is using and the type of key you own.
Traditional purely mechanical keys that function by inserting them into an ignition cylinder, they can be cut for less than $10 at the hardware store or locksmith. Chip keys, also known as transponder keys, are more expensive and feature a small chip that communicates to the vehicle in order to verify that the key is valid. These kinds of keys are only able to be duplicated by dealerships, as they have 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 losing your keys or have a tendency to leave them in odd places however, they also increase the likelihood of 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 certain that your spare key is in the right place in case you need it.
Locks
Having a spare car key is a smart move. You can save yourself many headaches by locking your keys inside the car or lose them. You should keep your spare keys in a safe place and easily accessible. For example the wall-mounted key holder or the kitchen drawer are great places to put it.
The type of lock that you put on your vehicle can affect the cost of replacing a key. The cost of replacing the 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 emit an electronic code that enables you to unlock your car or start it from a distance.
If you have lost your smart keys, you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or a dealership to obtain a replacement. They will have to confirm that you're the owner of the vehicle, and may require proof like the registration or title.
In the past, it wasn't a big issue to lose your car keys. But with technological advancements in cars, it's no longer as simple to get an extra. It can be costly to have 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
Whether you lost your keys to your car or were stolen, it's essential to have a spare key in hand. You can save money and time in the long run. You will also avoid having to call for a tow if you're stuck without keys. There are several alternatives to replace your key. These include dealerships, online services and locksmiths. You must compare the cost and convenience of these options before making a choice.
The cost will also depend on the type of key that you need. spare key fob , or basic keys are inexpensive and easy to replace, whereas more advanced keys are more expensive. Some features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start might require special components, which are harder to locate or make. It is important to keep an inventory of your immobilizer code and key number which will help reduce the overall costs.
Visit the dealer that sells the brand of your car to purchase an extra key. You'll get a key that's compatible with your vehicle's system and is programmed correctly. It is more expensive than other alternatives, but it is the best way to ensure that you have a functioning key whenever you need it. In addition, it is usually the only method to obtain keys for more recent vehicles.