How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?

The loss of your car keys could be a major hassle and it's essential to have an extra key in case you lose or break your primary one. What is the cost to buy spare car key a replacement car key?

The answer depends on several factors. This article will help you decide whether it's worthwhile to have an extra made.

Make

Having a spare key for your car is always a good idea, since losing one could be a costly and stressful experience. The cost of the spare car key is according to the make and model of your car, as well as the type of car.

For instance, simple keys that contain no technology will be cheaper to replace since they require a simple cutting from blanks and do not need specialized encryption. However, a key that is connected to a car fob or a transponder chip will have to be programmed by experts which will increase the cost.

If you have lost your key, your first step is to locate a local locksmith who has a machine that can program the type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. The steps to do this is outlined in your owner's manual or you can search online for "how to program (your year model, make, and year) key." This could help you save $150 or more.

Model

The model of your car determines the price of the spare car key. If you need the replacement of a key for a luxurious model or a premium car, the cost will be higher. The kind of material used to make the key also impacts the cost. For instance, it will cost less to replace a blank key than a key that is complete with an integrated fob. If you're looking to save money, many dealers will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.

Year

It is essential to have an extra car key especially if you have children who may lock themselves in the vehicle. There are several ways to get a spare key, including going to the dealership where you purchased your car, using an auto locksmith, or obtaining one on the internet. Each option comes with its own costs and benefits. You must take into consideration the type of key you want and the lock type prior to making a choice. The more expensive a brand is, the higher the cost.

Key type

Having a spare key can help you avoid being left in the event that you lose your car keys. However the cost of the spare car key may vary greatly depending on the lock type your vehicle uses and the type of key you own.

Keys that are mechanically made and work by inserting them into the ignition cylinder, they can be cut for less than $10 at the hardware store or locksmith. The more expensive alternative, transponder or chip keys, contain a tiny electronic chip in the key head that communicates with the vehicle to confirm it is a valid key. These kinds of keys are only able to be duplicated at dealerships, because they are equipped with the technology required to program them.

Other advanced systems, such as remote starters or mirror folding can increase the cost of a key replacement. These features are helpful for those who tend to lose your keys or put them in odd places, but they also increase the risk for theft. Consider putting your spare keys in a different place and establish a routine of emptying your pockets prior to getting into your car. You can be sure your spare key is in the right place in case you need it.

Locks

A spare car key can be a wise choice. It will save you a lot of stress if you lose your keys or if you lock them in your car. Keep your spare key somewhere safe and easy to locate. For example, a wall-mounted key holder or a drawer in your kitchen are good locations to store it.

The type of lock you have on your vehicle can affect the cost of a replacement key. Traditional keys, which are inserted into the lock and open the car doors and are more affordable to replace than smart key fobs, that emit an electronic code that lets you unlock or start your car from an extended distance.

If you lose your smart key, you'll need to go to the dealership or locksmith to get the replacement. These specialists will verify that you have ownership of the vehicle. This may require you to show proof of ownership like the registration or title.

In the past the days of losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. With the technological advancements of cars, it is not as easy to get an extra. It can be expensive to get a new key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some suggestions to aid you in estimating the cost for spare car key of a new spare car key.

Dealership

Whether you lost your car keys or were stolen, it's important to have a spare key for car cost key on your side. It can save you time and money in the long time. It will also save you from having to request a tow in the event that you're stuck without a key. There are a few options to obtain an alternative key, such as locksmiths, dealerships and online services. You should compare the price and convenience of these choices before making a decision.

The cost will also depend 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 are more expensive. Some features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start, might require special components that are more difficult to locate or make. You should keep a record of the immobilizer's code and also your key number. This will allow you to save money.

Visit the dealership that sells the brand of your car to purchase an extra key. You will get an appropriate key that is compatible with the system of your vehicle and has been programmed correctly. It is more expensive than other options, however it is the best method to ensure that you have a working key in case you require it. It is also the only method to get keys for some of the latest models.