How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?

Losing your car keys can be a huge hassle, and it's crucial to have a spare key in case you lose or break your primary one. But how much does an extra key for your car cost?

The answer will depend on several factors. This article will help you determine whether it's worth having an extra made.

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It's always a good idea to have a spare car key since losing a key could be costly and stressful. The cost of a spare car key varies according to the make and model of your car and the type of car.

Basic keys, for example keys that do not have any technology, are cheaper to replace because they only require an easy cut from an empty. They don't require specialized encoding. However, a key that is fitted with a car fob or transponder chips will need to be programmed by experts and can increase the cost.

If you've lost your only key, the first step should be to locate a local locksmith who has a machine that can program your type of key. You can also attempt to save money by having a new key cut, and then programming it yourself. The procedure for doing this will be explained in your owner's manual, or you can look on the internet for "how to program (your year, make, and model) key." This can help you save $150 or more.

Model

The model of your vehicle influences the cost of the spare car key. For example, if you require a replacement key for a luxury or premium model, the price will be more expensive than for an entry-level car. The kind of material used to create keys also affects the cost. It is cheaper to replace a blank than the key that has an integrated key fob. Many dealers can cut and program a key from a different company for you if you prefer to save money.

Year

It is important to have a spare car key, especially if you have young children who may get locked out of the car. You can get a spare car key various ways, such as going to the dealership you purchased your car from or by employing an auto locksmith, or purchasing one on the internet. Each choice comes with the associated costs and benefits. Before making a decision, you should consider both the type and type of lock. The more expensive a brand is, the higher the price.

Type of key

A spare key can allow you to avoid being without a place to go if you lose your main car keys. However, the cost of a spare car key can differ greatly based on the type of lock your vehicle uses and the type of key you have.

Hardware stores and locksmiths can cut mechanical keys, which work by inserting the key into the cylinder of ignition. They can cost just $10. Transponder keys or chip keys are more expensive and have a small chip that communicates with the vehicle to confirm the authenticity of the key. Dealerships are the only place where you can duplicate these keys since they are equipped with all the necessary equipment to program them.

Other advanced systems, such as remote starters and mirror folding options, could also add to the overall cost of a new key. These extra features are useful if you're prone to losing your keys, or leave them in odd places, but they can also increase the chance of theft. It's worth leaving your spare keys in a separate location and making it a habit to clear your pockets of any items you don't need before getting into your car. This way, you'll be sure that your spare key will be in your possession when you require it.

Locks

A spare car key is a smart idea. It will save you a lot of trouble when you lose your keys or if you lock them in the car. However, you must keep your spare keys for cars keys in a secure location, and Spare Car Keys Made ensure that you leave it somewhere that is easy to locate. It can be put in a key holder that is on the wall or in a drawer in your kitchen.

The type of locks on your vehicle will also impact the cost of replacing the spare key. The cost of replacing traditional keys that unlock the car door by inserting into the lock is cheaper than replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock your car or start it from an extended distance.

If you have lost your smart keys, you'll need to visit a locksmith or dealership to obtain an alternative. These specialists will verify that you own the vehicle. This may require you to show proof of ownership such as the registration or title.

In the past, it wasn't a big issue to lose your car keys. However, with the technological advances in cars, it's not as easy to get an extra. You'll have to go to a dealer or a locksmith to have a brand new key made for you, and that can be expensive. Here are a few tips to assist you in estimating the cost of purchasing a new spare car key.

Dealership

It's important to keep an extra car key in your pocket regardless of whether you lost your keys or were stolen. You can save time and money in the long term. You will also avoid having to call for a tow if you are stuck without a key. There are a variety of options for getting a replacement key, including locksmiths, dealerships, and online services. You should compare the price and convenience of these options before making a choice.

The cost will also be contingent on the type of key that you need. Keys that are traditional, or basic keys, are affordable and simple to replace, while more advanced keys will be more expensive. Some features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation remote start, and alarm activation, could require special components that are more difficult to find or make. Keep a record of the immobilizer code, and also your key number. This will help you save money.

Visit the dealership that sells the name of your vehicle to get an extra key. You'll receive a key that's compatible with your vehicle's system and has been programmed correctly. It can be more expensive than other alternatives, but it is the most surefire way to ensure that you have a working key when you need it. Additionally, it is typically the only way to obtain a key for some more recent vehicles.