How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys could be a huge hassle, and it's crucial to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break the one you have. How much will it cost to get a spare car key?
The answer will depend on several factors. This article will look at those factors to help you decide whether it's worth getting an extra key made.
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It is always a smart idea to keep a spare car key since losing a key could be expensive and stressful. The cost of the spare car key is dependent on the brand and model of your car and also the type of car.
For instance, keys that are basic that do not have any technology will be cheaper to replace since they only require a simple cutting from a blank and do not need specialized encoders. A key that is 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 locksmith who has an equipment that can program your type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. You can locate the procedure in your owner's guide or search online for "how do I program (your year model and year of manufacture) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model of your car determines the price of an extra car key. For instance, if need a replacement key for a luxury or premium model, the cost will be higher than that of an entry-level vehicle. The cost is also affected by the type of material used in the making of the key. It is cheaper to replace a blank key than a key with an integrated key fob. Many dealers can cut and program a key from a third party for you if you'd like to save money.
Year
A spare car key is essential particularly if your children are young and could lock themselves inside the vehicle. There are several options to obtain an extra key, which includes going to the dealership where you purchased your vehicle, using an auto locksmith, or obtaining one online. Each method comes with its own cost and benefits. Before making a decision you must take into consideration both the type and type of lock. Generally speaking, the more expensive the brand the more expensive the price will be.
Key type
A spare key can help you avoid being left in a bind when you lose your main car keys. However the cost of having an extra car key could vary greatly depending on the type of lock your vehicle is using as well as the kind of key you have.
Keys that are mechanically made and work by inserting them into the ignition cylinder, they can be cut for just $10 at the hardware store or locksmith. The more expensive alternative chip keys, also known as transponder keys, are equipped with a tiny electronic chip in the key head that communicates with the vehicle to confirm it is a valid key. Dealerships are the only ones that can duplicate keys, since they are equipped with all the necessary equipment to program them.
Other advanced systems like mirror folding or remote starters can increase the cost of replacing keys. These features are useful in the event that you lose your keys or put them in odd places, but they increase the chance of theft. You might want to think about leaving your spare keys in a separate location and making it a routine to empty your pockets of all items you don't use prior to getting into your vehicle. You can be sure that your spare key is in the right place whenever you need it.
Locks
A spare car key can be a wise decision. It can save you a lot of hassle when you lose your keys or lock them in the car. However, you must keep your spare keys in a secure place and ensure that you place it in a place that is easy to find. You can put it in a key holder placed on the wall or in a drawer of your kitchen.
The type of lock you have on your vehicle will also influence the cost of a replacement key. Traditional keys, which insert into the lock and open the car doors and are more affordable to replace than smart key fobs, which emit an electronic code that lets you unlock or start the car from the distance.
If you have lost your smart keys, you'll need to go to an authorized locksmith or a dealership to obtain a replacement. These specialists will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle, which may require providing proof such as the registration number or title.
In the past, losing your car keys was not a big deal. However, with spare car key fob in automobiles, it's not as simple to get an extra. You'll have to go to an auto dealer or a locksmith to have a brand new key made for you and it can be costly. Here are some suggestions to help you estimate the cost of purchasing a new spare car key.
Dealership
It's essential to keep an extra car key in your pocket regardless of whether you lost your keys or were stolen. It can save you time and money in the long in the long run. You will also avoid having to request a tow in the event that you are stuck without keys. There are a variety of alternatives to get an alternative key, such as dealerships, locksmiths, and online services. These options differ in cost and accessibility, so you should research the options before making a final decision.
The cost will also be contingent on the type of key that you require. Traditional keys, or basic keys, are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace, whereas more advanced keys are more expensive. Certain features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start may require special components, which are difficult to locate or create. It is essential to keep a record of your immobilizer's code and the number of your key, which will help to reduce the overall costs.
The most reliable method to find a spare car key is to go to the dealer that sells your vehicle's brand. This will ensure that you have a key that is compatible with the car's system and is programmed properly. It's more expensive however, you'll be sure to have a key that works when you need one. It is also the only way to obtain keys for some of the latest models.