How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It's an enormous inconvenience to lose your car keys. It's essential to keep one spare in case you lose or break your primary key. What is the cost to purchase a spare car key?
The answer depends on a number of factors. This article will look at those factors to help you decide whether it's worth having a spare key made.
Make
A spare key for your car is always a good idea, since losing one could be a stressful and costly experience. The cost of a spare car key varies according to the make and model of your vehicle and its type.
For example, basic keys with no technology will be less expensive to replace as they only require a simple cutting from a blank and do not require any special encryption. However, a key that is integrated with a car fob or has a transponder chip will have to be programmed by experts and will increase the price.
If you've lost your key, your first step should be to find a local locksmith 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 online for "how to program (your year, make, and model) key." This may help you save around $150 or more.
Model
The model of your vehicle will determine the cost of the spare key. For instance, if require a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the price will be more expensive than for an entry-level vehicle. The type of material used to create the key will also impact the cost. It is more affordable to replace a blank key than one with an integrated key fob. Many dealerships can also cut and program a key from a different company for you if you prefer to save money.
Year
It is important to have an extra car key especially if you have children who might be locked in the car. There are a variety of ways to get an extra key, which includes going to the dealership where you purchased your automobile, utilizing an auto locksmith, or getting one on the internet. Each method has the associated costs and benefits. Before making a choice you must consider the type and style of lock. The more expensive a brand is, the more expensive the price.
Type of key
Having a spare key can help you avoid being left in the event you lose your primary car keys. The cost of an extra key for your car can vary depending on the type lock and key you have.
Keys that are mechanically made and are operated by inserting them into an ignition cylinder can be cut for less than $10 at the hardware store or locksmith. The more expensive alternative keys, also known as transponder keys or chip keys, have a small electronic chip inside the head that communicates with the vehicle to confirm it's a valid key. These kinds of keys can only be duplicated at dealerships, because they are equipped with the technology required to program them.
Other advanced systems such as remote starters and mirror folding can also increase the cost of a key replacement. These features are useful for those who tend to lose keys or leave them in odd places, however, they can also increase the risk for theft. Consider putting your spare keys in a different location and make it a habit of emptying your pockets before getting into your vehicle. You can be sure that your spare key is there when you need to use it.
Locks
A spare car key could be a wise choice. It will save you a lot of trouble when you lose your keys or if you lock them in the car. It is recommended to keep your spare keys in a safe place and easy to locate. You can put it in a key holder placed on the wall or in a drawer in your kitchen.
The type of lock on your vehicle can also affect the cost of replacing a key. The cost of replacing traditional keys that unlock the car door by inserting them into the lock is less than the cost of replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock your car or start it from a distance.
If cheap spare car keys have lost your smart keys, you'll need to go to an authorized locksmith or a dealership to get a replacement. These specialists will verify that you have the vehicle. This may require you to show proof of ownership such as the registration or title.
In the past the time of car keys being lost, it was not a big deal. With the technological advancements of automobiles, it's no longer as simple to find an extra. It can be expensive to get a new key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some tips to help you determine the cost to get a spare car key made.
Dealership
It's important to keep an extra car key in your pocket regardless of whether you lost your keys or were stolen. You'll save time and money in the long run. It will also save you from having to call for a tow if you're stuck without keys. There are several options to obtain a replacement key, including dealerships, locksmiths and online services. You should compare the price and convenience of these choices before deciding.
The cost will also depend on the type of key that you require. Keys that are traditional are inexpensive and easy to replace. Keys with more advanced features 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 manufacture. Keep a log of the immobilizer code, along with your key number. This will allow you to save money.
The most secure method to find a spare car key is to go to the dealership that sells your vehicle's model. You'll receive a key that's compatible with the vehicle's system and is programmed correctly. It is more expensive than other options, but it is the most reliable method of ensuring that you have a functioning key when you need it. It is also the only way to obtain a key for certain newer models.