How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?

Losing your car keys can be a huge inconvenience and it's important to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break your primary one. But what is a spare key for your car cost?

The answer will depend on a myriad of factors. This article will help you decide whether it's worthwhile to have a spare made.

Be sure to make spare car key use of

A spare key for your vehicle is always a good idea, as losing one can be a stressful and costly experience. The cost of the spare car key is dependent on the brand and model of the vehicle and the type of car.

Basic keys, like ones that don't contain any technology are cheaper to replace as they require an easy cut from a blank. They also don't need special encoding. However, a key that is integrated with a car fob or has transponder chips will have to be programmed by specialists which will increase the price.

If you have lost your sole key the first step is to locate an authorized locksmith with a machine capable of programming the type of key you want. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. You can find 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 vehicle will determine the cost of the spare key. For instance, if you require a replacement for a premium or luxury model, the cost will be more expensive than for an entry-level vehicle. The kind of material used to manufacture the key also impacts the price. It is cheaper to replace a blank than the key that has an integrated key fob. If you want to save money, many 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 children who may lock themselves in the vehicle. There are several options to obtain an extra key, which includes visiting the dealership where you purchased your vehicle, using an auto locksmith, or purchasing one on the internet. Each method has its own set of costs and advantages. Before you make a decision you must take into consideration both the type and type of lock. Typically speaking, the more expensive the brand and the more expensive it will be.

Key type

Having a spare key can help you avoid being stuck in the event that you lose your car keys. The cost of having a spare key for your car could differ based on the type of lock and key you own.

Keys that are mechanically made and sherpapedia.org work by inserting them into an ignition cylinder can be cut down for as little as $10 at a hardware store or locksmith. The more expensive alternative keys, also known as transponder keys or chip keys, contain a tiny electronic chip inside the key head that communicates with the vehicle to confirm it is a valid key. Dealerships are the only places that can duplicate these keys, because they have all the necessary equipment needed to program them.

Other advanced systems like remote starters or mirror folding can also increase the cost of a key replacement. These features are helpful if you tend to lose keys or put them in odd places, however, they can also increase the likelihood of theft. It's worth keeping a spare key in a separate place and making it a routine to take out any items you don't need prior to getting into your vehicle. This way, you'll be sure that your spare key will be there when you require it.

Locks

A spare car key is a smart move. It will save you a lot of trouble in the event that you lose your keys or lock them in the car. You should keep your spare key somewhere secure and easily accessible. For instance the wall-mounted key holder or a drawer in your kitchen are good places to put it.

The type of lock you have on your car can also affect the cost of replacing the spare key. Traditional keys, which insert into a lock and open the car doors are less expensive to replace than smart key fobs, which emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock or start the car from the distance.

If you lose your smart keys you'll have to visit a locksmith or dealership to obtain a replacement. They will have to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle, which may require proof such as the registration number or title.

In the past the days of losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. With the advancements in technology of cars, it is not as simple to find a spare. It can be expensive to get a new car key made by a locksmith or dealer. Here are some guidelines to help you determine the cost to get a replacement car key made.

Dealership

If you've lost your car keys or they were stolen, it's essential to have a spare key in the side. It can save you time and money in the long time. You will also avoid having to call for a tow if you are stuck without keys. There are several alternatives to get a replacement key, including locksmiths, dealerships, and online services. These options vary in price and ease of use therefore you must research them before making a decision.

The cost will also depend on the type of key you require. Keys of the traditional type, also known as 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, which are difficult to locate or create. Keep a record of the immobilizer code, along with your key number. This will allow you save money.

Visit the dealership that sells the brand of your car to purchase an extra key. This will ensure that you have a key that is compatible with your car's system and is properly programmed. It's more expensive but you'll be certain to have a key that functions when you require it. Additionally, it is usually the only way to obtain keys for newer models of vehicles.