How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It can be a major inconvenience to lose your car keys. It is essential to have a spare in the event that you lose or break your primary key. But what is a spare key for your vehicle cost?
The answer is contingent on a variety of factors. This article will help you decide if it's worth having an extra made.
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It is always a smart idea to have an extra car key as losing a key can be costly and stressful. But the cost of having a spare key may vary depending on your vehicle's model and make, as well as the type of key.
For example, basic keys that contain no technology will be cheaper to replace as they only require a simple cutting from blanks and do not require specialized encryption. Keys that are integrated into a car fob, or has a chip will require programming and will be more expensive.
If you've lost your primary key the first step is to locate an authorized locksmith with the ability to program the type of key you want. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. You can locate the procedure in the owner's manual, or search online for "how do I program (your year model and year of manufacture) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model of your car influences the cost of a spare key. For example, if you need a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the price will be higher than for an entry-level car. The cost can also be affected by the type of material used to create the key. It is more affordable to replace a blank than the key that has 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
It is important to have an extra car key especially if you have children who could lock themselves in the vehicle. You can obtain a spare car key various ways, such as going to the dealership you purchased your car from or by employing an auto locksmith, or ordering one online. Each method comes with its own cost and advantages. Before making a decision you must consider the type and style of lock. The more expensive a particular brand is, the higher the price.
Key type
A spare key can prevent you from being left in the event that you lose your car keys. However order spare key for car of a spare car key can differ greatly based on the lock type your vehicle uses and the type of key you have.
Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys that function by inserting the key into the ignition cylinder. The cost of these keys is as little as $10. Transponder keys or chip keys are more expensive and feature small chips that communicate to the vehicle in order to verify that the authenticity of the key. Dealerships are the only ones that can duplicate these keys as they have all of the necessary equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems like remote starters and mirror folding can also increase the cost of a key replacement. These options are beneficial in the event that you lose keys or put keys in strange places, however, they can also increase the risk for theft. Consider putting your spare keys in a different location and making it a routine of emptying your pockets prior to getting into your car. This way, you'll be certain that your spare key will be there whenever you need it.
Locks
A spare car key could be a smart choice. You'll save yourself many headaches by locking your keys in the car or lose them. It is recommended to keep your spare key somewhere secure and easy to find. For instance, a wall-mounted key holder or an open drawer in your kitchen are great locations to store it.
The type of lock you have on your car can also affect the cost of replacing a spare key. Traditional keys, which are inserted into a lock and open the car doors and are more affordable to replace than smart key fobs which emit an electronic code that lets you unlock or start the car from a distance.
If you lose your smart key, you'll need to go to a dealership or locksmith for a replacement. These specialists will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle, which may require proof of ownership such as the registration or title.
In the past it wasn't such a big problem to lose your car keys. However, with the advancements in technology in cars, it's no longer as simple to get a spare. It can be costly to have a new key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some tips to help you figure out the cost to get a spare car key made.
Dealership
If you've lost your car keys or they were stolen, it's important to keep a spare key on the side. It will save you money and time in the long in the long run. It also helps you avoid needing to call a tow truck if you're stuck with no key. There are a variety of options to obtain an alternative key, such as dealerships, locksmiths, and online services. The options are varied in terms of cost and ease of use therefore you must research before deciding.
The cost will also be contingent on the type of key you require. Keys of the traditional type, also known as basic keys are affordable and simple to replace, while 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 record of the immobilizer's number, and also your key number. This will allow you to save money.
The most reliable method to obtain a spare car key is to visit the dealership that sells your vehicle's brand. This will ensure that you have a key that's compatible with the car's system and is properly programmed. It is more expensive, but you will be sure to have a key that functions in the event that you require one. In addition, it is often the only way to obtain the key for certain more recent vehicles.