How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It's a huge inconvenience to lose your car keys. It is essential to have one spare in case you break or lose your primary key. How much does it cost to purchase a spare car key?
The answer depends on a variety of factors. This article will explore these factors to help you decide whether it's worth having a spare key created.
Make
It's always a good idea to have an extra car key as losing a key can be expensive and stressful. The cost of an extra car key varies according to the make and model of the vehicle and the type of car.
Basic keys, for example ones that don't contain any technology are cheaper to replace because they only require an easy cut from the blank. They also don't need an encoding system that is specialized. Keys that are integrated into a car fob or has a chip, will require programming and will be more expensive.
If you've lost your primary key, the first step is to locate a locksmith that has an equipment that can program the type of key you want. Alternatively, you can try to save money by having a new key cut and programming it yourself. You can find the process in your owner's guide or on the internet for "how do I program (your year, make, and model) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model number of your vehicle determines the cost of a spare key. For instance, if require a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the cost will be more expensive than for an entry-level car. The kind of material used to manufacture the key will also impact the price. It is cheaper to replace a blank rather than the key that has an integrated key fob. If you want to save money, many dealers will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.
Year
It is important to have a spare car key, particularly if you have young children who might get locked out of the car. You can obtain an extra car key in many ways, including visiting the dealership that you purchased your car from or employing an auto locksmith, or purchasing one from the internet. Each option comes with the associated costs and benefits. Before you make a decision, you should consider both the type and type of lock. The more expensive a particular brand is, the higher the cost.
Key type
A spare key will allow you to avoid being in a bind when you lose your main car keys. The cost of an extra key for your car can vary depending on the type lock and key that you have.
Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys, which function by inserting the key into the cylinder for ignition. They can cost as little as $10. Chip keys, also known as transponder keys, are more costly and include tiny chips that talk to the vehicle to confirm the key is valid. These types of keys are only able to be duplicated by dealerships, as they have the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced features, such as remote starter or mirror folding options, can also add to the overall cost of replacing a key. These additional features can be beneficial if you are prone to losing your keys or place them in a strange location but they also increase the chance of theft. You may want to consider leaving the spare key in a different location and making it a habit to take out any items you don't need prior to getting into your car. This way, you can be sure that your spare key will be there when you require it.
Locks
A spare car key can be a wise choice. It will save you a lot of trouble if you lose your keys or if you lock them in the car. But, it is important to keep your spare keys in a secure location, and put it somewhere easily accessible. For example the wall-mounted key holder or an open drawer in your kitchen are good locations to store it.
The type of locks you use on your car will also affect the cost of replacing the spare key. Traditional keys, which are inserted into a lock and then open the doors to the car and are more affordable to replace than smart key fobs, that emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock or start your car from a distance.
If you lose your smart key, you'll have to visit a dealership or locksmith for the replacement. They will verify that you own the vehicle. This may require you to present proof such as the registration or title.
In the past the time of car keys being lost, it was not a major issue. However, with the technological advances in cars, it's not as easy to find a spare. You'll have to go to an auto dealer or a locksmith to have a brand new one made and it can be expensive. Here are some suggestions to help you estimate the cost of purchasing a new spare car key.
Dealership
It is essential to keep an extra car key in your pocket, whether you lost your keys or they were stolen. It can save you time and money in the long run. i lost my car key and no spare prevents you from having to call a truck in the event that you are stuck with no key. There are several alternatives to get an alternative key, such as locksmiths, dealerships and online services. It is important to compare the costs and convenience of these options before deciding.
The cost will also depend on the type of key you need. Keys of the traditional type, also known as basic keys are inexpensive and easy to replace, while more advanced keys will be more expensive. Some features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start may require special components, which are harder to locate or make. It's important to have an inventory of your immobilizer's code as well as the number of your key that will help reduce the overall costs.
The most reliable way to get a spare car key is to go to the dealer that sells your vehicle's model. You will get a key that's compatible with the system of your vehicle, and that has been programmed correctly. It's more expensive, but you'll be certain to have a key that functions when you require it. It is also the only way to obtain keys for some of the latest models.