How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It's a huge inconvenience to lose your car keys. It's essential to keep an extra key in case you break or lose your primary key. But how much does a spare key for your vehicle cost?
lost spare key to car will depend on a myriad 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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Having a spare car key is always a good idea, as losing one can be a stressful and costly experience. However, the cost of having a spare key can vary depending on your vehicle's model and make, as well as the type of key.
For example, basic keys that do not have any technology will be cheaper to replace because they require only a simple cut from blanks and do not require any special encoders. A key that is integrated 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 locate a locksmith that has an equipment that can program your particular type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. The steps to do this will be outlined in your owner's manual, or you can look online for "how to program (your year model, make, and year) key." This can help you save around $150 or more.
Model
The model number of your vehicle influences the price of the spare car key. For example, if you require a replacement key for a luxury or premium model, the cost will be higher than that of an entry-level vehicle. The cost can also be affected by the type of material used to make the key. It is cheaper to replace a blank than a key with an integrated key fob. If you're looking to save money, many dealerships will also cut and program third-party keys for you.
Year
It is essential to have an extra car key especially if you have young children who might lock themselves in the vehicle. There are many ways to get an extra key, which includes visiting the dealership from which you purchased your car, using an auto locksmith, or getting one on the internet. Each option has its own costs and advantages. It is important to consider the type of key and the lock type before making a choice. Typically speaking the more expensive the lock the more expensive the price will be.
Key type
A spare key will help you avoid being left stranded if you lose your main car keys. The cost of having a spare key for your car could vary based on the type of lock and key that you have.
Traditional purely mechanical keys that work by inserting them into the ignition cylinder can be cut for just $10 at an establishment like a locksmith or hardware store. Chip keys, also known as transponder keys, are more costly and include tiny chips that talk with the vehicle to verify that the authenticity of the key. These kinds of keys are only able to be duplicated at dealerships, since they have the equipment required to program them.
Other advanced systems such as remote starters or mirror folding can also make it more expensive for the replacement of keys. These features are helpful for those who tend to lose keys or put keys in odd places but they also increase the risk for theft. It's worth placing a spare key in a different location and making it a routine to empty your pockets of any items you don't need before getting into your vehicle. You can be sure that your spare key is there when you need to use it.
Locks
A spare car key is a smart move. You can save yourself lots of hassle by locking your keys inside the car or lose them. However, you should always keep your spare keys in a secure place and ensure that you leave it somewhere that is easily accessible. You can put it in a key holder that is on the wall or in a drawer in your kitchen.
The type of lock that you put on your vehicle will also influence the cost of a replacement key. The cost of replacing traditional keys that open the car's door by inserting them into the lock is less expensive than replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs transmit an electronic code that allows you to unlock the car or start it from a distance.
If you lose your smart key, you will require an establishment or locksmith for an alternative. They will verify that you have ownership of the vehicle. This could require you to present proof like the registration or title.
In the past, losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. With the technological advancements of cars, it is not as easy to get an extra. You'll have to go to a dealer or a locksmith to have a new one made for you and it can be expensive. Here are some suggestions to help you estimate the cost of a brand new spare car key.
Dealership
If you've lost your car keys or they were stolen, it's crucial to have a spare key in hand. You can save money and time in the long term. You will also avoid having to request a tow in the event that you're stuck without keys. There are a few options to obtain a replacement key, including locksmiths, dealerships, and online services. You should compare the price and ease of these options before making a decision.
The type of key you need will also impact the price. Traditional keys, or basic keys are affordable and simple to replace, while more advanced keys are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start may require special components, which are difficult to find or manufacture. It's important to have an accurate record of your immobilizer's code as well as the number of your key, which will help to lower the overall cost.
Visit the dealership that sells the name 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 is properly programmed. It's more expensive, but you'll be certain to have a key that functions when you require it. It is also the only way to get keys for some of the latest models.