How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It can be a major inconvenience to lose your car keys. It's important to keep one spare in case you lose or break your primary key. How much will it cost to get a spare car key?
The answer will depend on a variety of factors. This article will help you decide whether it's worthwhile to have a spare made.
Make
Having a spare car key is always a good idea as losing one can be a costly and stressful experience. But the cost of having a spare key could differ depending on the make and model and also the kind of key you have.
For instance, keys that are basic that do not have any technology will be less expensive to replace since they require a simple cutting from a blank and do not need specialized encoders. A key that is incorporated into a car fob, or is equipped with a chip will need to be programmed and will cost more.
If you have lost your sole key, the first step is to find an locksmith who 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 procedure for doing this will be outlined in your owner's manual, or you can go on the internet for "how to program (your year model, make, and year) key." This can help you save $150 or more.
Model
The model of your vehicle determines the cost of the spare key. If you require an replacement key for a luxurious model or a premium vehicle the price will be higher. click for more of material used to make the key also impacts the price. For instance, it will cost less to replace an uncut key than a key that is complete with an integrated fob. If you're looking to save money, several dealers will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.
Year
A spare car key is vital, especially if your children are young and may get locked inside the car. You can purchase an extra car key in many ways, including going to the dealership you bought your vehicle from or hiring an auto locksmith or purchasing one on the internet. Each option has its own costs and benefits. It is important to take into consideration the type of key and the lock type prior to making a choice. Generally speaking, the more expensive the lock and the more expensive it will be.
Type of key
Having a spare key can help you avoid being left in the event you lose the car keys you use for your primary. The cost of having a spare key for your vehicle can vary based on the type of lock and key you have.
Hardware stores and locksmiths can cut mechanical keys, which work by inserting the key into the cylinder of ignition. These keys cost just $10. Chip keys or transponder keys are more costly and include a small chip that communicates to the vehicle in order to confirm the authenticity of the key. These types of keys are only able to be duplicated at dealerships, because they are equipped with the technology required to program them.
Other advanced features, such as remote starters and mirror folding options, can be a factor in the overall cost of a replacement key. These features are helpful if you tend to lose your keys or place keys in odd places but they also increase the likelihood of theft. You might want to think about leaving your spare keys in a separate location and making it a routine to take out all items you don't use before getting into your car. You can be certain that your spare key is available in case you need it.
Locks
A spare car key is a smart thing to do. You'll save yourself lots of hassle when you lock your keys in the car or lose them. It is recommended to keep your spare key somewhere safe and easy to find. For example the wall-mounted key holder or an open drawer in your kitchen are both good locations to store it.
The type of locks you use on your car can also affect the cost of replacing keys that are spare. Keys that are traditional, which slide into the lock and open the car doors are less expensive to replace than smart key fobs which transmit an electronic code that lets you unlock or start the car from an extended distance.
If you lose your smart keys, you'll need to visit a locksmith or dealership to get an alternative. They will verify that you have the vehicle. This could require you to show proof of ownership such as the title or registration.
In the past it wasn't such a big issue to lose your car keys. With the advancements in technology for cars, it is not as simple to find an extra. It can be expensive to get a new key made by a locksmith or dealer. Here are a few tips to help you estimate the cost of a new spare car key.
Dealership
If you've lost your keys to your car or were stolen, it's important to keep a spare key on the side. It can save you time and money in the long in the long run. It will also save you from having to call for a tow if you find yourself stranded without a key. You have a few options to obtain a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services and locksmiths. These options differ in cost and convenience, so you should research before deciding.
The kind of key you require will also impact the price. Keys of the traditional type are cheap and simple to replace. More sophisticated keys are more expensive. Certain features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start, may require specific components, which are harder to locate or make. You should keep a record of the immobilizer's code along with your key number. This will allow you save money.
The most reliable way to obtain a spare car key is to visit the dealership that sells your vehicle's brand. You'll get a key that's compatible with your vehicle's system and is programmed correctly. It's more expensive, but you'll be certain to have a key that works when you need one. It is also the only method to get an authentic key for certain modern models.