How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?

It's a huge inconvenience to lose your car keys. It is essential to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break your primary key. How much will it cost to get a spare car key?

The answer will depend on a myriad of factors. This article will help you decide if it's worth having an extra made.

Make sure you make use of

Having a spare key for your car is always a good idea as losing one can be a costly and stressful experience. The cost of the spare car key is depending on the make and model of your car keys spare, as well as its type.

Basic keys, like keys that do not have any technology, are cheaper to replace as they require a simple cut from a blank. They also don't require specialized encoding. Keys that are integrated into a car fob or has a chip, will need to be programmed and will cost more.

If you have lost your sole key, the first step is to locate a locksmith that has an equipment that can program your type of key. You can also try to save money by having a new key cut and then programming it yourself. You can find the procedure in the owner's manual or search online for "how much for spare car key do I program (your year, make, and model) key." You could save up to $150.

Model

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

Year

A spare car key is crucial particularly if your children are young and may lock themselves inside the vehicle. There are several options to obtain a spare key, including visiting the dealership where you purchased your car, using an auto locksmith, or obtaining one on the internet. Each choice comes with its own set of costs and advantages. Before making a decision you must consider the type and style of lock. Generally speaking, the more expensive the brand and the more expensive it will be.

Type of key

A spare key can help you avoid being left stranded in the event that you lose your primary car keys. However the cost of a spare car key can vary greatly depending on the lock type your vehicle uses and the kind of key you have.

Hardware stores and locksmiths can cut mechanical keys, which work by inserting the key into the cylinder for ignition. The cost of these keys is just $10. Chip keys or transponder keys are more costly and include a small chip that communicates with the vehicle to confirm the authenticity of the key. These keys can only be duplicated by dealerships, since they have the equipment needed to program them.

Other advanced systems, like remote starters and mirror folding options, can also add to the overall cost of a new key. These extra features can be useful if you're susceptible to misplacing your keys or have a tendency to place them in a strange location however, they also increase the likelihood of theft. You might want to consider putting a spare key in a different place and establish a routine of emptying your pockets prior to getting into your car. This way, you'll ensure that your spare key will be available in case you require it.

Locks

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

The type of locks on your car will also affect the cost of replacing a spare key. Keys that are traditional, which slide into a lock and then open the doors of your car and are more affordable to replace than smart key fobs, that emit an electronic code that lets you unlock the car or start it from a distance.

If you lose your smart key, keys you will require an establishment or locksmith for a replacement. They will verify that you have the vehicle. This may require you to show proof of ownership like the registration or title.

In the past it wasn't such a big issue to lose your car keys. But with technological advancements in automobiles, it's not as easy to get a spare. It can be costly to get a new key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are a few tips to aid you in estimating the cost of a brand new spare car key.

Dealership

Whether you lost your keys to your car or were stolen, it's important to have a spare key on your side. You'll save money and time in the long term. It also stops you from having to call a tow truck in the event that you are stuck without a key. There are a variety of options to obtain a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services and locksmiths. These options differ in cost and convenience therefore you must research the options before making a final decision.

The type of key you need can also affect the price. Keys that are traditional are inexpensive and easy to replace. Keys with more advanced features are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start might require special components, which are difficult to find or manufacture. It is important to keep an accurate record of your immobilizer's code as well as the key number that will help reduce the overall costs.

Visit the dealer that sells the name of your vehicle to get an extra key. You will get an appropriate key that is compatible with your vehicle's system and is programmed correctly. It may cost more than other options, however it is the best method of ensuring that you have a working key whenever you need it. It is also the only way to obtain a key for certain newer models.