How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys could be a major hassle and it's crucial to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break your primary one. But what is a spare key for your vehicle cost?
The answer depends on several factors. This article will help you decide if it's worth having an extra.
Make
It's always a good idea to keep an extra car key since losing a key could be expensive and stressful. However, the cost of having a spare key can differ based on the vehicle's model and make and also the kind of key.
For instance, keys that are basic that do not have any technology will be cheaper to replace as they require a simple cutting from an empty piece of paper and do not require specialized encoding. Keys that are integrated into a car fob or is equipped with a chip will require programming and will cost more.
If you have lost your only key, the first step is to locate a locksmith in your area who has a tool that can program the type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. The steps to do this will be explained in your owner's manual or you can look on the internet for "how to program (your year model, make, and year) key." This could help you save $150 or more.
Model
The model number of your vehicle determines the cost of the spare key. For instance, if require a replacement key for a luxury or premium model, the price will be higher than for an entry-level vehicle. The cost is also affected by the type of material used in the making of the key. For instance, it will cost less to replace a blank key than a complete key that has an integrated fob. Many dealers can cut and program a key from a different company for you, if you want to save money.
Year
It is essential to have an extra car key, especially if you have young children who may be locked in the car. There are many options to obtain a spare key, including visiting the dealership from which you bought your car, using an auto locksmith, or getting one online. Each method has the associated costs and advantages. Before you make a decision, you should consider both the type and type of lock. In general, the more expensive the lock and the more expensive it will be.
Type of key
A spare key can prevent you from being left in the event that you lose your car keys. The cost of an extra key for your car could vary based on the type of lock and key you own.
Traditional purely mechanical keys that are operated by inserting them into the ignition cylinder, they can be cut for just $10 at a hardware store or locksmith. Transponder keys or chip keys are more expensive and have a small chip that communicates to the vehicle in order to verify that the authenticity of the key. Dealerships are the only place that can duplicate keys, because they have all the necessary equipment to program them.
Other advanced systems like mirror folding or remote starters can also increase the cost of replacing keys. These features are helpful in the event that you lose keys or leave keys in strange places, but they also increase the likelihood of theft. You might want to think about keeping the spare key in a separate place and making it a habit to clear your pockets of any items you don't need prior to getting into your vehicle. This way, you'll be sure that your spare key will be in your possession whenever you require it.
Locks
The idea of having a spare car key is a smart thing to do. spare key shop near me will save you a lot of hassle in the event that you lose your keys or lock them in the car. It is recommended to keep your spare keys in a safe place and easy to locate. For example, a wall-mounted key holder or an open drawer in your kitchen are great places to put it.
The type of lock you have on your car can also affect the cost of replacing a spare key. The cost of replacing the traditional keys that open the car's door by inserting into the lock is less expensive than the cost of replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs emit an electronic code that enables you to unlock the car or start it from an extended distance.
If you lose your smart key, you will require a dealership or locksmith for a replacement. The experts will confirm that you have ownership of the vehicle. It may be necessary for you to present 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 not as easy to find a spare. It can be expensive to get a new car key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are a few tips to aid you in estimating the cost of a new spare car key.
Dealership
It is essential to keep an extra car key on hand regardless of whether you lost your keys or they were stolen. It will 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 keys. There are a variety of options to obtain keys that can be replaced, including dealerships, locksmiths and online services. The options are varied in terms of cost and accessibility, so you should research the options before making a final decision.
The cost will also depend on the type of key that you need. Keys of the traditional type, also known as basic keys are inexpensive and easy to replace, whereas more advanced keys are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, remote start, and alarm activation, could require specific components that are more difficult to locate or create. You should keep a record of the immobilizer's code and also your key number. This will allow you save money.
The most secure method to get a spare car key is to visit the dealership that sells your vehicle's model. This will ensure that you have a key that's compatible with your car's systems and has been programmed correctly. It's more expensive but you will be sure to have a key that functions when you require it. It is also the only way to get a key for certain newer models.