How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys could be a huge hassle, and it's important to have an extra key in case you lose or break your primary one. 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 determine if it's worth having an extra.
Make
A spare car key is always a good idea since losing one could be a stressful and costly experience. The cost of a spare car key varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as its type.
Basic keys, for instance, that do not contain any technology are cheaper to replace as they require the simple cutting of an empty. They don't require specialized encoding. A key that is integrated into a car fob, or has a chip, will require programming and will be more expensive.
If you have lost your key, your first step should be to locate a local locksmith who has a tool that can program your type of key. Alternatively, you can try to save money by having a new key cut, and then programming it yourself. The steps to do this will be outlined in the owner's manual or you can search online for "how to program (your year model, make, and year) key." This may help you save $150 or more.
Model
The model number of your vehicle will determine the cost of an extra key. If you need the replacement of a key for a luxurious model or a premium vehicle the price will be higher. The kind of material used to manufacture the key also impacts the price. For instance, it'll cost less to replace a blank key than a complete key that has an integrated fob. A lot of dealerships will cut and program a third-party key for you if you'd like to save money.
Year
A spare car key is essential, especially if your children are young and may get locked inside the car. There are a variety of ways to get an extra key, which includes visiting the dealership where you bought your automobile, utilizing an auto locksmith, or purchasing one online. Each option comes with the associated costs and benefits. You should take into consideration the type of key and the lock type before making a choice. Typically speaking the more expensive the lock, the higher the cost will be.
Key type
A spare key can help you avoid being stranded in the event that you lose the car keys you use for your primary. However the cost of having a spare car key can differ greatly based on the type of lock your vehicle is using and the type of key you have.
Keys that are mechanically made and work by inserting them into the ignition cylinder, they can be cut for just $10 at the hardware store or locksmith. The more expensive alternatives chip keys, also known as transponder keys, are equipped with a tiny electronic chip inside the key head that communicates with the vehicle to verify it is a valid key. Dealerships are the only places that can duplicate these keys, as they have all of the necessary equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced features, such as remote starter or mirror folding options, can also increase the total cost of replacing a key. These features are helpful for those who tend to lose keys or leave keys in strange places, however, they can also increase the risk for theft. Consider leaving a spare in a different place and making it a routine of emptying your pockets prior getting into your car. You can be sure that your spare key is in the right place in case you need it.
Locks
Having a spare car key is a smart thing to do. It will save you a lot of trouble when you lose your keys or lock them in the car. Keep your spare key somewhere secure 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 lock you have on your car can also affect the cost of replacing keys that are spare. Keys that are traditional, which slide into a lock and then open the car doors are less expensive to replace than smart key fobs, which transmit an electronic code that lets you unlock or start your car from the distance.
If you lose your smart keys you'll need to go to an authorized locksmith or a dealership to get an alternative. These specialists will verify that you own the vehicle. This could require you to present proof like the registration or title.
In the past it wasn't such a big deal to lose your car keys. But with technological advancements in cars, it's no longer as easy to get an extra. You'll need to either visit an authorized dealer or locksmith to have a brand new one made for you and it could be expensive. Here are some guidelines to help you figure out the cost to get a spare car key made.
Dealership
It's important to keep an extra car key on hand regardless of whether you lost your keys or were stolen. It can save you money and time in the long run. You'll also not have to call for a tow if you find yourself stranded without a key. There are a variety of options to obtain a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services and locksmiths. These options differ in cost and convenience, so you should research the options before making a final decision.
locked key in car no spare will also be contingent on the type of key you require. Keys of the traditional type are cheap and simple to replace. More advanced keys are more expensive. Some features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation remote start, and alarm activation, could require specific components that are more difficult to locate or make. Keep a log of the immobilizer's number, and also your key number. This will help you 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's compatible with your car's system and has been programmed correctly. It is more expensive than other options, however it is the most surefire way to ensure that you have a working key whenever you need it. It is also the only way to get an authentic key for certain modern models.