How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?

Losing your car keys can be a major hassle and it's essential to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break your primary one. But how much does an extra key for your car cost?

The answer depends on a myriad of factors. This article will help you determine whether it's worth having a spare made.

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

Basic keys, for instance ones that don't contain any technology are less expensive to replace since they require an easy cut from an empty. They also don't need specialized encoding. A key that is incorporated into a car fob or is equipped with a chip will require programming, and will cost more.

If you have lost your sole key, the first step is to find an locksmith who has an equipment that can program your type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. The process for doing this will be outlined 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 around $150 or more.

Model

The model number of your vehicle determines the cost of an extra key. If you need a key replacement for a luxurious model or a premium car, the cost will be higher. The kind of material used to make keys also affects the price. It is less expensive to replace a blank rather than a key with an integrated key fob. If you're looking to save money, a lot of dealers will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.

Year

A spare car key is essential especially if your kids are young and may get locked inside the car. You can purchase a spare car key in various ways, such as visiting the dealership that you bought your vehicle from, employing an auto locksmith, or purchasing one from the internet. Each choice comes with the associated costs and benefits. Before making a choice you must consider the type and style of lock. The more expensive a particular brand is, the higher the cost.

Key type

A spare key can prevent you from being stranded in the event that you lose your car keys. The cost of an extra key for your car could vary based on the type of lock and key that you have.

Hardware stores and locksmiths can cut mechanical keys that operate by inserting the keys into the cylinder of ignition. These keys cost just $10. The more expensive alternative, transponder or chip keys, have a small electronic chip inside the head that communicates with the vehicle to verify it's a valid key. Dealerships are the only place that can duplicate these keys, spare Keys for cars because they have all the necessary equipment needed 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 if you tend to lose keys or put keys in odd places however, they can also increase the risk for theft. Consider putting your Spare keys for cars keys in a different location and make it a habit of emptying your pockets prior getting into your vehicle. You can be sure that your spare key is in the right place in case you need it.

Locks

A spare car key cost car key could be a smart choice. It will save you a lot of hassle when you lose your keys or if you lock them in your car. Keep your spare key somewhere safe and easy to find. For example the wall-mounted key holder or the kitchen drawer are good places to put it.

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

If you lose your smart key, then you'll need to go to an establishment or locksmith for the replacement. These specialists will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle, and may require proof of ownership such as the registration number or title.

In the past it wasn't such a big deal to lose your car keys. However, with the advancements in technology in cars, it's no longer as easy to get an extra. You'll have to go to an authorized dealer or locksmith to have a new one made for you and it can be costly. Here are some tips to assist you in estimating the cost of purchasing a new spare car key.

Dealership

Whether you lost your car keys or were stolen, it's essential to keep a spare key on your side. It will save you time and money in the long time. You will also avoid having to call for a tow if you find yourself stranded without a key. There are a few options to obtain an alternative key, such as locksmiths, dealerships, and online services. These options differ in cost and accessibility, so you should research them before making a decision.

The cost will also depend on the type of key that you need. Traditional keys, or basic keys, are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace, while more sophisticated keys are more expensive. Certain features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start, may require specific components, which are harder to find or manufacture. It's important to have an accurate record of your immobilizer's code and key number that will help reduce the overall cost.

The most secure method to get an extra car key is to visit the dealership that sells your vehicle's brand. You will get keys that are compatible with your vehicle's system and has been programmed correctly. It is more expensive, but you'll be certain to have a key that works in the event that you require one. In addition, it is usually the only way to get keys for newer vehicles.