How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?

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

The answer is contingent on a variety of factors. This article will explore those factors to determine if it's worth having an extra key made.

Make sure you make use of

It's always a good idea to have an extra car key since losing a car key can be costly and stressful. The cost of a Spare Key For Car car key varies dependent on the brand and model of your vehicle, as well as the type of car.

Basic keys, like keys that do not have any technology, are cheaper to replace because they only require the simple cutting of the blank. They also don't require special encoding. However, a key that is integrated with a car fob or has transponder chips will need to be programmed by experts which will increase the price.

If you've lost your primary key the first step is to find an locksmith who has a machine capable of programming your particular type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. You can find the process in your owner's guide or go online to search for "how 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 a spare key. If you require a key replacement for a luxury model or a premium car, the cost will be higher. The type of materials used to make keys also affects the cost. For instance, it will cost less to replace a blank key than a complete key with an integrated fob. If you want to save money, many dealers will also cut and program third-party keys for you.

Year

A spare car key is vital, especially if your children are young and may lock themselves inside the vehicle. There are a variety of ways to get a spare key, including going to the dealership where you purchased your vehicle, using an auto locksmith, or obtaining one on the internet. Each option comes with its own set of costs and advantages. Before you make a decision you must consider the type and style of lock. In general the more expensive the brand the more expensive the price will be.

Type of key

A spare key will help you avoid being left in a bind when you lose your main car keys. The cost of a spare key for your car could vary based on the type of lock and key you own.

Traditional purely mechanical keys that are operated by inserting them into the ignition cylinder can be cut down for as little as $10 at an establishment like a locksmith or hardware store. The more expensive alternative, transponder or chip keys, have a small electronic chip inside the key head that communicates with the vehicle to verify it is a valid key. Dealerships are the only places that can duplicate keys, since they are equipped with all the necessary equipment to program them.

Other advanced features, such as remote starter or mirror folding options, can also increase the total cost of a replacement key. These features are useful for those who tend to lose keys or leave keys in odd places however, they can increase the chance of theft. You may want to consider leaving your spare keys in a separate location and establishing a routine to empty your pockets of all items you don't use before you get into your car. You can be sure that your spare key is in the right place in case you need it.

Locks

The idea of having a spare car key is a smart idea. It can save you a lot of stress when you lose your keys or if you lock them in your car. You should keep your spare key somewhere safe and easily accessible. For example an affixed key holder on the wall or an open drawer in your kitchen are good places to leave it.

The type of locks you use on your car can also affect the cost of replacing the spare key. Keys that are traditional, which slide into the lock and open the doors to the car are less expensive to replace than smart key fobs which emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock or start the car from the distance.

If you have lost your smart keys, you'll have to visit a locksmith or dealer to get an alternative. These specialists will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle, which could require providing proof such as the registration number or title.

In the past, losing your car keys was not a major issue. With the advancements in technology of automobiles, it's no longer as easy to get an extra. It can be costly to have a new key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some guidelines to help you figure out how much it will cost to have a spare car key made.

Dealership

It's essential to keep an extra car key in your pocket in case you lose your keys or they were stolen. It can save you money and time in the long time. You will also avoid having to request a tow in the event that you are stuck without a key. There are a variety of alternatives to get a replacement key, including dealerships, locksmiths, and online services. You must compare the cost and ease of these options before making a decision.

The type of key you need can also affect the price. Keys that are traditional are inexpensive and simple to replace. 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 manufacture. 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 model of your vehicle to obtain a spare car key maker near me key. This will ensure that you have a key that is compatible with your car's systems and is properly programmed. It can be more expensive than other alternatives, but it is the most surefire method of ensuring that you have a functioning key in case you require it. It is also the only way to get an authentic key for certain modern models.