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 a spare key in case you lose or break the one you have. What is the cost of an extra key for your vehicle cost?
The answer depends on several factors. This article will help you decide if it's worth having a spare made.
Make
It's always a good idea to have a spare car key as losing a key can be costly and stressful. But the cost of having a spare key can differ based on the vehicle's make and model, as well as the kind of key.
Basic keys, like, that do not contain any technology are less expensive to replace since they require the simple cutting of an empty. They also don't need special encoding. However, a key that is connected to a car fob or transponder chips will need to be programmed by specialists which can increase the cost.
If you've lost your sole key, your first step should be to find a local locksmith who has a tool that can program the type of key. Alternatively, you can try to save money by having a new key cut and then programming it yourself. You can find the procedure in the owner's manual or go online to search for "how do I program (your year, make, and model) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model of your vehicle determines the cost of the spare key. If you require the replacement of a key for a luxury model or a premium car, the cost will be more expensive. The cost can also be affected by the kind of material used to create the key. It is cheaper to replace a blank than a key with an integrated key 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 essential especially if your kids are young and may lock themselves inside the vehicle. You can obtain an extra car key in various ways, such as going to the dealership where you bought your vehicle from or by hiring an auto locksmith or purchasing one on the internet. Each choice comes with the associated costs and benefits. It is important to take into consideration the type of key you want and the lock type before making a choice. Generally speaking the more expensive the brand the more expensive the price will be.
Key type
Having a spare key can prevent you from being stuck in the event that you lose your primary car keys. The cost of a spare key for your car can vary based on the type of lock and key that you have.
Traditional purely mechanical keys that work by inserting them into the ignition cylinder can be cut down for less than $10 at a hardware store or locksmith. The more expensive alternative, transponder or chip keys, contain a tiny electronic chip inside the head that communicates with the vehicle to confirm that it is a genuine key. These 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, could also increase the total cost of a replacement key. These features are helpful in the event that you lose keys or place keys in strange places, but they also increase the likelihood of theft. It's worth leaving a spare key in a different location and making it a habit to clear your pockets of any items you don't need before you get into your car. You can be certain that your spare key is in the right place whenever you need it.
Locks
A spare car key could be a smart choice. You'll save yourself lots of hassle when you lock your keys inside the car or lose them. It is recommended to keep your spare key somewhere secure and easily accessible. You can leave 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 vehicle will also impact the cost of replacing a spare key. The cost of replacing the traditional keys that open the car door by inserting them into the lock is cheaper than replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs generate an electronic code that enables you to unlock the car or start it from a distance.
If you lose your smart key, then you'll have to visit the dealership or locksmith to get the replacement. They will verify that you own the vehicle. This could require you to provide proof like the title or registration.
In the past it wasn't a huge problem to lose your car keys. With places that make spare car keys of automobiles, it's no longer as easy to get an extra. It can be costly to have a new key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some suggestions to help you estimate the cost of a brand new spare car key.
Dealership
Whether you lost your car keys or were stolen, it's important to have a spare key in your side. You'll save money and time in the long term. It also helps you avoid having to call a tow truck if you are stranded with no key. There are a variety of options to obtain an alternative key, such as locksmiths, dealerships, and online services. The options are varied in terms of cost and ease of use, so you should research before deciding.
The cost will also depend on the type of key you need. Traditional keys are relatively cheap and easy to replace. Keys with more advanced features are more expensive. Some features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start, might require specific components that are more difficult to locate or manufacture. It is essential to keep an accurate record of your immobilizer's code and key number, which will help to reduce the overall costs.
The most reliable way to get a spare car key is to go to the dealership that sells your vehicle's model. You will get an appropriate key that is compatible with your vehicle's system and has been programmed correctly. It is more expensive than other alternatives, but it is the most reliable method of ensuring that you have a working key when you need it. Additionally, it is usually the only way to get keys for newer vehicles.