How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
Losing your car keys can be a major hassle and it's important to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break your primary one. What is the cost of an extra key for your car cost?
The answer will depend on a myriad of factors. This article will examine those factors to help you decide whether it's worth having an extra key made.
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Having a spare key for your car is always a good idea, since losing a key can be a stressful and costly experience. But the cost of having a spare key could differ depending on the make and model, as well as the type of key.
Basic keys, for example keys that do not have any technology, are cheaper to replace as they require the simple cutting of a blank. They also don't need an encoding system that is specialized. A key that is incorporated into a car fob or is equipped with a chip will require programming and will cost more.
If you lose your only key, the first step is to locate an authorized locksmith with a machine capable of programming your type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. The process for doing this will be explained in your owner's manual or you can search online for "how to program (your year model, make, and year) key." This may help you save up to $150.
Model
The model of your vehicle determines the cost of the spare 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 car. The cost is also influenced by the type of material used in the making of the key. For instance, it will cost less to replace the key with a blank one than a complete key that has an integrated fob. A lot of dealerships will cut and program a key from a different company for you if you prefer to save money.
Year
A spare car key is crucial especially if your kids are young and could lock themselves inside the vehicle. You can purchase an extra car key in several ways, including by going to the dealership where you bought your vehicle from, employing an auto locksmith, or purchasing one from the internet. Each option has its own costs and benefits. Before making a choice you must take into consideration both the type and type of lock. The more expensive a brand is, the more expensive the cost.
Key type
Having a spare key can prevent you from being stranded in the event that you lose the car keys you use for your primary. The cost of an extra key for your car could vary based on the type of lock and key you have.
Traditional purely mechanical keys that function by inserting them into an ignition cylinder can be cut down for as little as $10 at a hardware store or locksmith. Chip keys, also known as transponder keys, are more expensive and feature a small chip that communicates to the vehicle to confirm the authenticity of the key. These kinds of keys are only able to be duplicated at dealerships, because they are equipped with the technology required to program them.
Other advanced systems, such as mirror folding or remote starters can make it more expensive for replacing keys. These extra features can be useful if you're susceptible to losing your keys or have a tendency to leave them in odd places but they also increase the likelihood of theft. Consider leaving a spare in a different spot and make it a habit of emptying your pockets prior getting into your car. This way, you can be certain that your spare key will be in your possession when you need it.
Locks
A spare car key is a smart thing to do. It will save you a lot of hassle in the event that you lose your keys or have them locked in your car. You should keep your spare key somewhere secure and easy to find. You can leave it in a key holder placed on the wall or in a drawer of your kitchen.
The type of locks you use on your car will also affect the cost of replacing keys that are spare. The cost of replacing the traditional keys that open the car door by inserting into the lock is cheaper than the cost of replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs emit an electronic code which allows you to unlock your car or start it from a distance.
If you lose your smart keys, you'll have to visit an authorized locksmith or a dealership to get a replacement. They will have to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle, and may require proof of ownership such as the registration number or title.
In the past the days of losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. But with technological advancements in automobiles, it's not as easy to find a spare. spare car key replacement cost can be expensive to get a new car key made by a locksmith or dealer. Here are a few tips to aid you in estimating the cost of purchasing a new spare car key.
Dealership
If you've lost your keys to your car or were stolen, it's important to have a spare key on the side. It can save you money and time in the long time. It also prevents you from needing to call a tow truck if you are stranded with no key. There are a few alternatives to get keys that can be replaced, including dealerships, locksmiths, and online services. The options are varied in terms of cost and ease of use, so you should research the options before making a final decision.
The cost will also depend on the type of key you need. Keys that are traditional, or basic keys, are affordable and simple to replace, while more sophisticated keys are more expensive. Some features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start, may require specific components, which are harder to locate or create. You should keep a record of the immobilizer's code along with your key number. This will allow you save money.
Visit the dealership that sells the model of your vehicle to obtain an extra key. This will ensure that you have a key compatible with your car's systems and is properly programmed. It can be more expensive than other options, but it is the best method of ensuring that you have a functioning key when you need it. It is also the only method to get an authentic key for certain modern models.