How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys can be a huge inconvenience and it's crucial to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break your primary one. But how much does a spare key for your vehicle cost?
The answer will depend on a number of factors. This article will look at the factors that will determine if it's worth getting an extra key made.
Make
It is always a smart idea to have a spare car key, since losing a key could be expensive and stressful. The cost of a spare car key varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the type of car.
Basic keys, like, that do not contain any technology are cheaper to replace since they require the simple cutting of an empty. They also don't need specialized encoding. However keys that are fitted with a car fob or has a transponder chip will have to be programmed by specialists, which will increase the cost.
If you've lost your primary key the first step is to find a locksmith that has the ability to program your type of key. Alternately, you could try to save money by having the new key cut, and then programming it yourself. The process for doing this is outlined in your owner's manual or you can go on the internet for "how to program (your year, make, and model) key." This could help you save up to $150.
Model
The model number of your car influences the cost of an extra key. For example, if you need a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the price will be higher than for an entry-level car. The type of materials used to make keys also affects the cost. For example, it will cost less to replace an uncut key than a complete key with an integrated fob. cheap spare car keys can also cut and program a key from a different company for you if you'd like to save money.
Year
A spare car key is vital especially if your kids are young and could be locked out of the car. You can obtain a spare car key many ways, including going to the dealership you bought your vehicle from or by employing an auto locksmith, or purchasing one from the internet. Each method has the associated costs and benefits. Before you make a decision, you should consider 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 will ensure that you don't end up 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 lock type your vehicle uses and the type of key you have.
Hardware stores and locksmiths can cut mechanical keys that operate by inserting the keys into the cylinder of ignition. The cost of these keys is as little as $10. Transponder keys or chip keys are more costly and include a small chip that communicates with the vehicle to confirm the keys are valid. These types of keys can only be duplicated by dealerships, as they have the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced features, such as remote starters and mirror folding options, could be a factor in the overall cost of a new key. These extra features can be beneficial if you are prone to misplacing your keys or have a tendency to leave them in odd places however, they also increase the likelihood of theft. You might want to think about keeping the spare key in a separate place and making it a routine to empty your pockets of anything you don't require before getting into your car. You can be sure your spare key is in the right place in case you need it.
Locks
The idea of having a spare car key is a smart idea. It can save you a lot of stress if you lose your keys or have them locked in the car. You should keep your spare key somewhere secure and easily accessible. For example, a 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 vehicle will also impact the cost of replacing the spare key. Traditional keys, which insert into a lock and open the car doors, are cheaper to replace than smart key fobs which emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock the car or start it from a distance.
If you lose your smart key, you'll need to go to an establishment or locksmith for the replacement. They will have to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle, which may require proof such as the registration number or title.
In the past it wasn't such a big issue to lose your car keys. With get spare key made in technology of automobiles, it's not as simple to find a spare. It can be expensive to get a new key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some guidelines to help you figure out the cost to have a spare car key made.
Dealership
If you've lost your keys to your car or were stolen, it's essential to have a spare key in your side. You'll save time and money in the long term. You will also avoid having to call for a tow if you're stuck without keys. There are a variety of options to obtain a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. You must compare the cost and convenience of these choices before making a decision.
The type of key you need can also affect the price. Traditional keys, or basic keys, are affordable and simple to replace, whereas more advanced keys are more expensive. Certain features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start might require special components that are more difficult to locate or make. It's important to have an inventory of your immobilizer code and the key number, which will help to lower the overall cost.
Visit the dealer that sells the model of your vehicle to obtain a spare key. You'll receive an appropriate key that is compatible with the system of your vehicle and is programmed correctly. It's more expensive, but you will be sure to have a key that functions when you require it. It is also typically the only way to obtain the key for certain newer vehicles.