How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
Losing your car keys can be a major hassle and it's essential to have a spare key in case you lose or break your primary one. What is the cost of an extra key for your car cost?
The answer depends on several factors. This article will look at these factors to help you decide whether it's worth getting a spare key created.
Make
It is always a smart idea to keep a spare car key since losing a key could be expensive and stressful. The cost of an extra car key varies according to the make and model of your car and the type of car.
For example, basic keys with no technology will be less expensive to replace as they only require a simple cutting from a blank and do not need specialized encryption. A key that is incorporated into a car fob, or has a chip, will require programming, and will cost more.
If you've lost your primary key, the first step is to locate an authorized locksmith with an equipment that can program your type of key. Alternately, you could try to save money by having the new key cut and then programming it yourself. You can locate the procedure in your owner's guide or search online for "how do I program (your year make and model) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model number of your vehicle determines the cost of the spare key. For instance, if you need a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the cost will be higher than for an entry-level car. The cost is also influenced by the type of material used to create the key. For instance, it'll cost less to replace an uncut key than a complete key with an integrated 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 essential, especially if your children are young and may be locked out of the car. There are a variety of options to obtain an extra key, which includes visiting the dealership where you bought your car, using an auto locksmith, or obtaining one online. Each method has its own set of costs and advantages. You should be aware of the type of key and the lock type prior to making a decision. In general the more expensive the lock the more expensive the price will be.
Read A lot more can ensure that you don't end up without a place to go in the event that you lose your primary car keys. However the cost of having an extra car key could vary greatly depending on the lock type your vehicle uses and the type of key you own.
Traditional purely mechanical keys that are operated by inserting them into an ignition cylinder can be cut down for just $10 at a hardware store or locksmith. The more expensive alternative, transponder or chip keys, have a small electronic chip inside the head that communicates with the vehicle to verify it is a valid key. Dealerships are the only place where you can duplicate these keys, as they have all of the necessary equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems like mirror folding or remote starters can also make it more expensive for replacing keys. These extra features are useful if you're prone to losing your keys, or have a tendency to place them in a strange location but they also increase the risk of theft. You might want to think about keeping your spare keys in a separate place and making it a habit to take out anything you don't require before getting into your car. This way, you can ensure that your spare key will be available in case you require it.
Locks
The idea of having a spare car key is a smart thing to do. It will save you a lot of stress in the event that you lose your keys or have them locked in your car. However, you must keep your spare keys in a secure location, and make sure to leave it somewhere that is easy to find. You can leave it in a key holder on the wall or in a drawer of your kitchen.
The type of locks on your car will also affect the cost of replacing a spare key. Keys that are traditional, which slide into a lock and open the doors of your car are less expensive to replace than smart key fobs that emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock the car or start it from the distance.
If you have lost your smart keys, you'll need to visit a locksmith or dealership to obtain an alternative. The experts will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle, which may require proof such as the registration or title.
In the past it wasn't such a big problem to lose your car keys. However, with the technological advances in cars, it's no longer as easy to find a spare. It can be expensive to get a new car key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some tips to help you determine how much it will cost to have a spare car key made.
Dealership
It is essential to keep an extra car key on hand regardless of whether you lost your keys or they were stolen. You can save money and time in the long run. It also helps you avoid having to call a tow truck if you are stranded without a key. There are several alternatives to get keys that can be replaced, including dealerships, locksmiths, and online services. It is important to compare the costs and convenience of these choices before deciding.
The cost will also be contingent on the type of key you need. 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, and remote start, might require special components that are more difficult to locate or create. It is essential to keep a record of your immobilizer code and key number, 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 will be sure to have a key that works in the event that you require one. It is also the only way to obtain a key for certain newer models.