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 a spare key in case you lose or break your primary one. How much will it cost to get a spare car key?

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

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A spare key for your car is always a good idea since losing a key can be a costly and stressful experience. However, the cost of having a spare key could vary depending on your vehicle's model and make, as well as the kind of key.

For example, basic keys that do not have any technology will be cheaper to replace as they require only a simple cut from a blank and do not require specialized encoders. Keys that are integrated into a car fob, or has a chip, will need to be programmed, and will cost more.

If you lose your only key the first step is to locate an locksmith who has 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 process in the owner's manual, or spare keys near me search online for "how much are spare car keys do I program (your year model and year of manufacture) key." You could save up to $150.

Model

The model number of your vehicle determines the price of a spare car key. If you require an replacement key for a luxurious model or premium vehicle, the cost will be more expensive. The kind of material used to manufacture the key also impacts the cost. It is cheaper to replace a blank key than one with an integrated key fob. If you're looking to save money, many dealers will also cut and program third-party keys for you.

Year

It is crucial to have a spare car key, especially if you have children who might lock themselves in the vehicle. There are many options to obtain a spare key, including going to the dealership where you bought your automobile, utilizing an auto locksmith, or obtaining one online. Each method has its own costs and advantages. You should take into consideration the type of lock and the lock type before making a decision. The more expensive a particular brand is, the higher the cost.

Key type

A spare key can allow you to avoid being in a bind in the event that you lose your primary car keys. The cost of having a spare Keys near Me key for your car could vary based on the type of lock and key you own.

Traditional mechanical keys that work by inserting them into the ignition cylinder can be cut for less than $10 at an establishment like a locksmith or hardware store. The more expensive alternative, transponder or chip keys, contain a tiny electronic chip inside 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 by dealerships, because they are equipped with the technology needed to program them.

Other advanced features, such as remote starter or mirror folding options, may also add to the overall cost of a replacement key. These features are useful for those who tend to lose your keys or put keys in strange places, but they also increase the likelihood of theft. You might want to consider putting a spare key in a different place and making it a routine of emptying your pockets prior to getting into your car. You can be certain that your spare key is there when you need to use it.

Locks

A spare car key is a smart thing to do. You can save yourself a lot of trouble by locking your keys in the car or lose them. Keep your spare key somewhere safe and easy to find. For instance an affixed key holder on the wall or a drawer in your kitchen are good locations to store it.

The type of lock on your vehicle will also influence the cost of replacing a key. Keys that are traditional, which slide into a lock and open the doors of your car spare keys are less expensive to replace than smart key fobs, which transmit an electronic code that lets you unlock or start your car from the distance.

If you lose your smart key, then you'll have to visit the dealership or locksmith to get an alternative. These specialists will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle, which could require proof of ownership such as the registration number or title.

In the past it wasn't a huge deal to lose your car keys. With the technological advancements of automobiles, it's not as easy to get an extra. It can be expensive to have a new key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some suggestions to help you estimate the cost of a brand new spare car key.

Dealership

It's essential to keep a spare car key handy, whether you lost your keys or they were stolen. You'll save money and time in the long run. You will also avoid having to call for a tow when you're stuck without a key. There are a few options for getting keys that can be replaced, including dealerships, locksmiths, and online services. These options vary in price and convenience, so you should research before deciding.

The type of key you require can also affect the price. Keys of the traditional type, also known as basic keys are inexpensive and easy to replace, while more sophisticated keys are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start, might require specific components that are more difficult to find or create. Keep a record of the immobilizer code, as well as your key number. This will allow you to save money.

The most reliable method to get a spare car key is to visit the dealership that sells your vehicle's model. You will get keys that are compatible with your vehicle's system and is programmed correctly. It's more expensive but you'll be certain to have a key that works when you require it. It is also the only way to obtain an authentic key for certain modern models.