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 a spare key in case you lose or break the one you have. What is the cost to buy a replacement car key?

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

Make

Having a spare car key is always a good idea since losing a key can be a costly and stressful experience. The cost of a spare car key varies dependent on the brand and model of your vehicle, as well as the type of car.

Basic keys, for example ones that don't contain any technology are cheaper to replace because they only require a simple cut from the blank. They also don't need specialized encoding. A key that is incorporated into a car fob or has a chip will require programming and will be more expensive.

If you've lost your key, the first step is to find a local locksmith with a computer that can program your type of key. Alternatively, you can try to save money by having the new key cut, and then programming it yourself. You can find the process in the owner's manual, or on the internet for "how do I program (your year model and year of manufacture) key." You could save up to $150.

Model

The model of your vehicle influences the price of an extra car key. If you need a key replacement for a high-end model or premium vehicle the price will be more expensive. The cost is also affected by the kind of material used to make the key. It is cheaper to replace a blank rather than one with an integrated key fob. If you're looking to save money, several dealerships will also cut and program third-party keys for you.

Year

A spare car keys cut car key is essential, especially if your children are still young and might lock themselves inside the vehicle. There are many options to obtain an extra key, such as visiting the dealership from which you bought your vehicle, using an auto locksmith, or getting one online. Each comes with its own cost and advantages. You must be aware of the type of key you want and the lock type before making a choice. Generally speaking, the more expensive the brand the more expensive the price will be.

Type of key

A spare key will ensure that you don't end up in a bind if you lose your main car keys. However, the cost of the spare car key may differ greatly based on the type of lock your vehicle uses and the type of key you have.

Hardware stores and locksmiths can cut mechanical keys, which operate by inserting the keys into the cylinder of ignition. These keys cost just $10. The more expensive alternatives keys, also known as transponder keys or chip keys, have a small electronic chip in the key head that communicates with the vehicle to verify that it is a genuine key. Dealerships are the only ones where you can duplicate these keys, as they have all of the equipment needed to program them.

Other advanced systems, such as mirror folding or remote starters can increase the cost of a key replacement. These extra features can be useful if you're prone to losing your keys or place them in a strange location but they also increase the chance of theft. Consider putting your spare keys in a different place and establish a routine of emptying your pockets before getting into your vehicle. This way, you can ensure that your spare key for car key will be in your possession whenever you require it.

Locks

A spare car key could be a wise choice. It can save you a lot of hassle in the event that you lose your keys or lock them in the car. It is recommended to keep your spare key somewhere secure and easy to find. For instance, a wall-mounted key holder or an open drawer in your kitchen are great locations to store it.

The type of lock you have on your vehicle will also impact the cost of replacing a spare key. The cost of replacing the traditional keys that unlock the car door by inserting into the lock is less expensive than replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs transmit an electronic code that enables you to open the car or start it from the distance.

If you lose your smart keys you'll need to go to an authorized locksmith or a dealership to obtain a replacement. These specialists will verify that you have the vehicle. This could require you to provide proof such as the title or registration.

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 costly to get a new key made by a locksmith or dealer. Here are some suggestions to help you determine how much it will cost to get a spare car key made.

Dealership

Whether you lost your car keys or were stolen, it's important to have a spare key in the side. You'll save time and money in the long run. It also helps you avoid needing to call a tow truck if you're stuck with no key. There are a variety of options for getting a replacement key, including dealerships, locksmiths and online services. These options differ in cost and convenience, so you should 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 simple to replace. Keys with more advanced features are more expensive. Some features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start, may require special components that are more difficult to locate or manufacture. It is essential to keep an inventory of your immobilizer's code as well as key number which will help lower the overall cost.

Visit the dealer that sells the name of your vehicle to get an extra key. You'll get a key that's compatible with the vehicle's system and is programmed correctly. It's more expensive, but you'll be certain to have a key that works when you need one. It is also the only way to get keys for some of the latest models.