How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys could be a major hassle and it's essential to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break your primary one. But how much does a spare key for your car cost?
The answer will depend on several factors. This article will help you determine if it's worth having an extra made.
Make
get a spare key made near me 's always a good idea to keep a spare car key since losing a key could be expensive and stressful. However, the cost of having a spare key can vary depending on your vehicle's make and model, as well as the kind of key you have.
For instance, keys that are basic that contain no technology will be cheaper to replace as they require only a simple cut from an empty piece of paper and do not require any special encoders. A key that is incorporated into a car fob or is equipped with a chip will require programming, and will cost more.
If you've lost your key, your first step should be to find a local locksmith with a computer that can program your type of key. Alternatively, you can try to save money by having the new key cut and programming it yourself. The procedure for doing this will be outlined in your owner's manual or you can look online for "how to program (your year, make, and model) key." This may help you save up to $150.
Model
The model number of your vehicle determines the cost of an extra car key. For instance, if you require a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the price will be higher than for an entry-level vehicle. The type of material used to create the key also impacts the price. It is cheaper to replace a blank than the key that has an integrated key fob. If you want to save money, several dealers will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.
Year
A spare car key is essential especially if your kids are still young and might be locked out of the car. You can get an extra car key in several ways, including by visiting the dealership that you bought your vehicle from or by hiring an auto locksmith or purchasing one from the internet. Each option has its own costs and advantages. It is important to be aware of the type of lock and the lock type prior to making a decision. Generally speaking the more expensive the brand is and the more expensive it will be.
Key type
A spare key can help you avoid being stranded in the event you lose the car keys you use for your primary. However the cost of having the spare car key may differ greatly based on the type of lock your vehicle is using and the type of key you own.
Keys that are mechanically made and work by inserting them into the ignition cylinder can be cut for as little as $10 at an establishment like a locksmith or hardware store. The more expensive alternative chip keys, also known as transponder keys, contain a tiny electronic chip in the key head that communicates with the vehicle to confirm that it is a genuine key. Dealerships are the only place where you can duplicate these keys as they have all of the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems, such as remote starter or mirror folding options, may also increase the total cost of replacing a key. These options are beneficial 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 consider putting a spare key in a different place and make it a habit of emptying your pockets prior to getting into your car. You can be sure your spare key is there whenever you need it.
Locks
The idea of having a spare car key is a smart move. It will save you a lot of trouble when you lose your keys or have them locked in your car. However, you must keep your spare key in a secure place and make sure to place it in a place that is easy to find. You can put it in a key holder that is on the wall or in a drawer in your kitchen.
The type of lock you have on your car can also affect the cost of replacing keys that are spare. Keys that are traditional, which slide into a lock and open the doors of your car, are cheaper to replace than smart key fobs which transmit an electronic code that allows you to unlock or start the car from a distance.
If you lose your smart key, you'll require the dealership or locksmith to get an alternative. The experts will confirm that you own the vehicle. It may be necessary for you to provide proof such as the registration or title.
In the past the days of losing your car keys was not a major issue. With the technological advancements of automobiles, it's no longer as easy to get a spare. It can be costly to get a new car key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some guidelines 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 were stolen. It can save you time and money in the long run. You'll also not have to call for a tow when you're stuck without keys. There are several alternatives to replace your key. These include dealerships, online services and locksmiths. These options differ in cost and ease of use, so you should research before deciding.
The cost will also be contingent on the type of key you require. Traditional keys are relatively cheap and easy to replace. More advanced 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 create. It is essential to keep an accurate record of your immobilizer's code and key number which will help reduce the overall cost.
Visit the dealer that sells the model of your car to purchase an extra key. This will ensure that you have a key that's compatible with your car's systems and is properly programmed. It is more expensive, but you'll be certain to have a key that functions when you require it. In addition, it is usually the only method to obtain a key for some newer models of vehicles.