How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?

A spare key for your car is essential to ensure peace of mind should you lose or damage your primary key. However, it can be expensive.

The cost is contingent on where you have the spare key made, whether at a dealership or through a locksmith. The cost also varies based on the type of key you require.

Dealerships

One of the primary avenues to obtain a replacement car key is through a dealership. Typically, the dealer will require information such as the vehicle's make and model, year, and VIN when requesting a replacement key. The dealer might also require evidence of ownership or identification to ensure that the key is given to the rightful owner. Based on the type of key, this process can be relatively efficient and cost-effective, however it is crucial to remember that dealership services are typically more expensive than other options.

You can also purchase a generic spare car key at a hardware store or locksmith and program it yourself. This is something that many automakers allow drivers to do, and the instructions are usually included in the owner's manual or on the official website of the manufacturer. However, this method is generally slower and can be more expensive than contacting the locksmith.

If you have a traditional metal key, you can usually get it replaced at the local locksmith for a couple of dollars. If your key is one that is electronic or has a transponder chip, the price is substantially more expensive. It could cost you about $50 to $200 or more.

It is generally recommended to make a duplicate car key before losing the original. You won't be stuck, and you'll have an extra key in the event of an accident. It's a small cost to pay for peace of mind and the ability to drive your car at any time you like.

It can be a challenge to obtain an additional key for your vehicle but it's worth it if you lose or get the original key stolen. If you are concerned about the expense of having a spare car key consult your local locksmith or automaker prior to deciding on a particular option. You can also reach out to reputable key replacement companies and provide them with details about your vehicle to get a quote. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget under control.

Locksmiths

If you've ever had to get locked out of your car, a spare key may come in handy. It is essential to keep the key in a secure location, G28Carkeys however, since you don't want to lose it or have it stolen. Depending on the model and make of your car, it can cost $50-$200 to have a spare key created. There are a variety of ways to obtain an alternative car key, including the dealership, auto locksmith, or roadside assistance.

The best way to acquire an extra car key is at the dealership where you bought your car. The dealer will have a blank key and can program it to work with your car. This is the most expensive option, but it is the most secure method of having a functioning key in the event that you lose the original key.

Many hardware stores and locksmiths will be able to make keys for your car however, the cost may differ. A basic car key with transponder chips will typically be made for less than $10, while a key fob, or smart key could be more expensive.

If you need an extra key for your car, select a reputable auto locksmith. They should be DBS verified and checked, and accredited to carry out work of this type. They should be insured in the event of anything going wrong during the duplication process.

It's expensive to replace a lost key but it's worthwhile to have one in case you lose it or lock it inside the car. It is always safer to be prepared rather than attempt to pry your door open with a coat hanger and risk damaging your car. So, make the effort to have a spare car key made and store it in a safe location. You'll be glad you did it if you need it one day!

Older vehicles

Losing your car keys can be a huge inconvenience. This can lead to costly repair bills and lost work time, especially if your vehicle is not accessible. If you have an extra car key however, you can avoid these issues completely. A spare keys made near me key can also save you lots of money in the long run. But how much does an extra car key cost? There are several factors that affect the cost such as the model and make of the vehicle and the type of key.

There are many different types of keys for cars, with some more intricate than others. The most common kind of key is the traditional key, which is used both to lock and unlock doors. They are simple to create and cost between $10 and $15 per copy. Other options include switchblade keys, key fobs, and g28carkeys remote keys. These can be more advanced and include features such as alarm activation and remote start. However, they can be more expensive than traditional keys.

It's a good idea to create a spare car key if you own an older car. You can avoid the high cost of replacing a car that is newer. If you lose your keys, it's best to replace it as soon as possible. This will ensure that you are capable of accessing your car and also prevent theft or other problems.

A spare car key is a good investment for any driver. A spare key can be extremely useful should you have to replace or damage your original. The cost of a replacement car key varies based on the make and model of the vehicle. It is important to take these aspects into consideration when choosing the right service.

Modern cars are equipped with an electronic chip that is embedded in the head of the keys. This chip sends a signal to a security system in the car which can verify the keys and allow the driver to unlock or start their vehicle. If the chips are damaged or destroyed, they can be expensive to replace and may require the assistance of a locksmith or dealership.

Newer Vehicles

For those old enough to remember, it was once quite easy to lose a car key and not lose many dollars. You could take the code from the owner's manual to the hardware store or locksmith and have an alternative key cut at an affordable cost. Today, things are a little more complicated. Keys in the latest cars are equipped with chips and require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. And then there are keys fobs, laser cuts, and even switchblade keys all of which cost more than the traditional mechanical key.

Ace Hardware offers up to 30% off when you buy your replacement keys online. You can also use the convenient store locator to locate a location near you that can service your vehicle.