How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It can be a major inconvenience to lose your car keys. It's essential to keep one spare in case you lose or break your primary key. But how much does a spare key for your vehicle cost?
The answer depends on a variety of factors. This article will explore these factors to determine if it's worth getting a spare key made.
Make
A spare car key is always a good idea, since losing a key can be a costly and stressful experience. However, the cost of having a spare key may differ depending on the make and model, as well as the type of key you have.
For instance, simple keys with no technology will be less expensive to replace because they only require a simple cutting from a blank and do not require any special encryption. Keys that are integrated into a car fob or is equipped with a chip will require programming and will be more expensive.
If you have lost your sole key, the first step is to locate a locksmith that has an equipment that can program your type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. You can locate the procedure in the owner's manual or on the internet for "how do I program (your year model and year of manufacture) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model number of your vehicle influences the cost of an extra car key. For example, if you require a replacement for a premium or luxury model, the price will be more expensive than for an entry-level car. The cost is also affected by the kind of material used in the making of the key. For example, it will cost less to replace the key with a blank one than a key that is complete with an integrated fob. If you're looking to save money, a lot of dealers will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.
Year
It is essential to have an extra car key, particularly if you have young children who could get locked out of the car. You can purchase a spare car key in several ways, including by visiting the dealership that you purchased your car from or by hiring an auto locksmith or ordering one online. Each has its own costs and benefits. You must consider the type of key and the lock type prior to making a choice. Generally speaking, the more expensive the brand the more expensive the price will be.
Type of key
A spare key will allow you to avoid being without a place to go in the event that you lose your primary car keys. However, spare key shop near me of a spare car key can vary greatly depending on the lock type your vehicle is using as well as the type of key you own.
Traditional purely mechanical keys that are operated by inserting them into the ignition cylinder can be cut for less than $10 at the hardware store or locksmith. Chip keys or transponder keys are more costly and include small chips that communicate to the vehicle to verify that the key is valid. These keys can only be duplicated at dealerships, since they have the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems, such as remote starters and mirror folding can increase the cost of replacing keys. These options are beneficial for those who tend to lose your keys or leave them in odd places, however, they can increase the chance of theft. You might want to consider putting a spare key in a different spot and establish a routine of emptying your pockets prior getting into your car. This way, you'll be certain that your spare key will be in your possession in case you need it.
Locks
A spare car key can be a wise decision. It will save you a lot of trouble in the event that you lose your keys or lock them in the car. However, you should always keep your spare key in a secure location, and place it in a place that is easily accessible. For example the wall-mounted key holder or a drawer in your kitchen are both good locations to store it.
The type of locks you use on your car will also affect the cost of replacing a spare key. Keys that are traditional, which slide into a lock and then open the car doors and are more affordable to replace than smart key fobs, which emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock or start your car from a distance.
If you lose your smart key, you will have to visit a dealership or locksmith for a replacement. They will have to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle, which may require proof of ownership like the registration or title.
In the past it wasn't a huge problem to lose your car keys. But with technological advancements in cars, it's not as easy to find an extra. You'll have to go to an authorized dealer or locksmith to have a new one made for you and it could be costly. Here are a few tips to assist you in estimating the cost of a brand new spare car key.
Dealership
It's important to keep an extra car key on hand regardless of whether you lost your keys or they were stolen. It can save you time and money in the long in the long run. It also prevents you from needing to call a tow truck if you're stuck with no key. There are a variety of options for getting keys that can be replaced, including locksmiths, dealerships and online services. These options vary in price and convenience therefore you must research the options before making a final decision.
The kind of key you require can also affect the price. Keys of the traditional type, also known as basic keys, are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace, while more advanced keys are more expensive. Some features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation, remote start, and alarm activation, could require special components that are more difficult to locate or create. Keep a log of the immobilizer's code along with your key number. This will help you to save money.
The most secure method to find an extra car key is to go to the dealership that sells your vehicle's model. This will ensure that you have a key that's compatible with your car's system and has been programmed correctly. It is more expensive than other alternatives, but it is the best method of ensuring that you have a working key whenever you need it. It is also the only method to get an authentic key for certain modern models.