How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
Losing cheap spare car keys can be a huge hassle, and it's essential to have a spare key in case you lose or break your primary one. What is the cost of an extra key for your car cost?
The answer will depend on several factors. This article will examine the factors that will help you decide whether it's worth getting an extra key made.
Make
It is always a smart idea to keep a spare car key since losing a car key can be expensive and stressful. But the cost of having a spare key can vary depending on your vehicle's make and model and the type of key you have.
Basic keys, like keys that do not have any technology are cheaper to replace since they require an easy cut from the blank. They also don't need specialized encoding. Keys that are integrated into a car fob, or is equipped with a chip will require programming, and will cost more.
If you have lost your sole key the first step is to find an authorized locksmith with a machine capable of programming your particular type of key. Alternately, you could attempt to save money by having the new key cut, and then programming it yourself. You can find the process in the owner's manual, or search online for "how do I program (your year make and model) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model number of your car determines the cost of a spare car 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 cost can also be affected by the kind of material used to create the key. It is less expensive to replace a blank than a key with an integrated key fob. If you want to save money, a lot of dealerships will also cut and program third-party keys for you.
Year
It is important to have an extra car key especially if you have young children who may get 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, hiring an auto locksmith or purchasing one on the internet. Each choice comes with the associated costs and advantages. You should consider the type of lock and the lock type before making a decision. The more expensive a particular brand is, the higher the cost.
Type of key
A spare key can allow you to avoid being without a place to go if you lose your main car keys. The cost of a spare key for your car can differ based on the type of lock and key that you own.
Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys that work by inserting the key into the ignition cylinder. These keys cost just $10. The more expensive alternatives, transponder or chip keys, contain a tiny electronic chip in the key head that communicates with the vehicle to verify it is a valid key. Dealerships are the only place that can duplicate these keys, because they have all the necessary equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced features, such as remote starter or mirror folding options, can be a factor in the overall cost of a new key. These options are beneficial if you tend to lose keys or put keys in odd places but they also increase the risk for theft. Consider leaving a spare 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 available in case you need it.
Locks
Having a spare car key is a smart idea. You'll avoid lots of hassle by locking your keys in your car or lose them. You should keep your spare keys in a safe place and easily accessible. For example, a wall-mounted key holder or a drawer in your kitchen are good locations to store it.
The type of lock on your vehicle can also affect the cost of a replacement key. Traditional keys, which are inserted into the lock and open the doors to the car are less expensive to replace than smart key fobs, which emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock the car or start it from an extended distance.
If you lose your smart keys, you'll need to go to an authorized locksmith or a dealership to get an alternative. These specialists will need to confirm that you're the owner of the vehicle, which may require proof such as the registration or title.
In the past the days of losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. With the advancements in technology of automobiles, it's no longer as simple to find a spare. It can be expensive to have a new key made by a locksmith or dealer. Here are some suggestions to assist you in estimating the cost of a new spare car key.
Dealership
It's essential to keep an extra car key in your pocket in case you lose your keys or were stolen. You'll save money and time in the long term. It will also save you from having to request a tow in the event that you find yourself stranded without keys. There are a variety of options to get a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services and locksmiths. You must compare the cost and convenience of these options before making a decision.
The cost will also depend on the type of key that you need. Keys that are traditional are inexpensive and easy to replace. More advanced keys 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 find or create. It is important to keep a record of your immobilizer's code and key number which will help reduce the overall cost.
Visit the dealership that sells the brand of your vehicle to obtain a spare key. This will ensure that you have a key compatible with the car's system and is programmed properly. It may cost more than other options, but it is the most reliable method of ensuring that you have a working key when you need it. It is also the only method to get an authentic key for certain modern models.