How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?

Losing your car keys can be a huge hassle, and it's important to have a spare key in case you lose or break your primary one. But what is a spare key for your vehicle cost?

The answer depends on several factors. This article will examine those factors to determine if it's worth getting a spare key created.

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It's always a good idea to have a spare car key, since losing a car key can be expensive and stressful. The cost of a spare car key varies dependent on the brand and model of the vehicle, as well as its type.

Basic keys, like ones that don't contain any technology are less expensive to replace as they require the simple cutting of the blank. They also don't need specialized encoding. However, a key that is fitted with a car fob or transponder chips will have to be programmed by experts, which will increase the price.

If you have lost your sole key the first step is to find an locksmith who has a machine capable of programming your type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. You can find the process in the owner's manual or go online to search for "how to get 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 will determine the cost of an extra key. If you need the replacement of a key for a luxurious model or a premium car the price will be higher. The type of material used to manufacture the key also impacts the cost. It is cheaper to replace a blank key than a key with an integrated key fob. A lot of dealerships will cut and program a key from a different company for you if you prefer to save money.

Year

It is important to have an extra car key especially if you have children who might lock themselves in the vehicle. There are a variety of ways to get an extra key, which includes visiting the dealership from which you purchased your car, using an auto locksmith, or purchasing one on the internet. Each choice comes with its own set of costs and advantages. Before making a choice, you should consider the type and style of lock. Generally speaking the more expensive the brand is and the more expensive it will be.

Key type

A spare key will help you avoid being left without a place to go if you lose your main car keys. The cost of having a spare key for your car could differ based on the type of lock and key you have.

Keys that are mechanically made and function by inserting them into the ignition cylinder can be cut for just $10 at an establishment like a locksmith or hardware store. Transponder keys or chip keys are more expensive and have a small chip that communicates to the vehicle in order to verify that the keys are valid. Dealerships are the only place that can duplicate these keys, as they have all of the necessary equipment to program them.

Other advanced systems such as remote starters and mirror folding can increase the cost of replacing keys. These features are helpful in the event that you lose your keys or put them in odd places, but can also increase the likelihood of theft. Consider leaving a spare Car Key Price in a different place and make it a habit of emptying your pockets before getting into your vehicle. This way, spare car key price you'll ensure that your spare key will be in your possession in case you need it.

Locks

A spare car key can be a wise choice. You can save yourself many headaches when you lock your keys inside the car or lose them. However, you should always keep your spare key in a secure location, and ensure that you put it somewhere easily accessible. It can be put in a key holder on the wall or in a drawer in your kitchen.

The type of lock that you put on your vehicle will also influence the cost of a replacement key. The cost of replacing the traditional keys that open the car door by inserting them into the lock is less than replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs transmit an electronic code that allows you to unlock your car or start it from an extended distance.

If you lose your smart keys you'll need to visit a locksmith or dealer to obtain an alternative. They will verify that you own the vehicle. It may be necessary for you to present proof like the title or registration.

In the past, losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. With the technological advancements of automobiles, it's not as simple to find an extra. You'll need to visit an auto dealer or a locksmith to have a new one made and it could be costly. Here are some tips to aid you in estimating the cost of 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 money and time in the long term. It also helps you avoid needing to call a tow truck if you are stranded without a key. There are several options to get a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. You must compare the cost and ease of these options before deciding.

The cost will also be contingent on the type of key that you require. Keys that are traditional, or basic keys are inexpensive and easy 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 specific components that are more difficult to locate or manufacture. Keep a record of the immobilizer's code along with your key number. This will help you to save money.

The most reliable way to get an extra car key is to visit the dealer that sells your vehicle's brand. This will ensure that you have a key that's compatible with your car's systems and has been programmed correctly. It's more expensive however, you'll be sure to have a key that works in the event that you require one. It is also the only way to get keys for some of the latest models.