How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It can be a major 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. But how much does an extra key for your car cost?
The answer will depend on a myriad of factors. This article will help you determine whether it's worthwhile to have an extra made.
Make
It is always a smart idea to keep an extra car key since losing a car key can be costly and stressful. But the cost of having a spare key may differ depending on the make and model, as well as the type of key you have.
Basic keys, for example ones that don't contain any technology are cheaper to replace as they require a simple cut from an empty. They also don't require an encoding system that is specialized. spare key replacement that are integrated into a car fob, or is equipped with a chip will require programming and will cost more.
If you lose your only 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. The procedure for doing this will be outlined in your owner's manual or you can go on the internet for "how to program (your year model, make, and year) key." This can help you save $150 or more.
Model
The model number of your vehicle determines the cost of the spare car key. For instance, if you require a replacement for a luxury or premium model, the cost will be higher than for an entry-level vehicle. The cost can also be affected by the kind of material used to create the key. For instance, it will cost less to replace a blank key than a key that is complete with an integrated fob. If you're looking to save money, many dealerships will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.
Year
It is crucial to have an extra car key especially if you have children who may be locked in the car. You can obtain an extra car key in several ways, including by visiting the dealership that you bought your vehicle from or employing an auto locksmith, or purchasing one on the internet. Each comes with its own costs and benefits. You must consider the type of lock and the lock type before making a decision. The more expensive a particular brand is, the more expensive the cost.
Type of key
A spare key can prevent you from being stuck in the event that you lose your car keys. However the cost of an extra car key could vary greatly depending on the type of lock your vehicle is using and the kind of key you have.
Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys, which work by inserting the key into the cylinder of ignition. The cost of these keys is as little as $10. Chip keys or transponder keys are more expensive and have small chips that communicate to the vehicle in order to confirm the key is valid. Dealerships are the only place that can duplicate these keys, since they are equipped with all the necessary equipment to program them.
Other advanced systems such as remote starters or mirror folding can make it more expensive for the replacement of keys. These extra features are beneficial if you are prone to losing your keys or have a tendency to leave them in odd places, but they can also increase the risk of theft. Consider leaving a spare in a different spot and make it a habit of emptying your pockets prior getting into your vehicle. You can be sure your spare key is in the right place when you need to use it.
Locks
Having a spare car key is a smart move. It can save you a lot of stress in the event that you lose your keys or have them locked in the car. It is recommended to keep your spare keys in a safe place and easily accessible. For example the wall-mounted key holder or an open drawer in your kitchen are both good places to leave it.
The type of locks you use on your vehicle will also impact the cost of replacing a spare key. The cost of replacing traditional keys that open the car's door by inserting into the lock is cheaper than replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs generate an electronic code which allows you to unlock the car or start it from an extended distance.
If you lose your smart keys, you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or a dealership to obtain a replacement. They will have to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle, and may require proof like the registration or title.
In the past it wasn't such a big issue to lose your car keys. With the advancements in technology for automobiles, it's not as simple to find an extra. It can be expensive to get a new car key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some guidelines to help you determine the cost to get a spare car key made.
Dealership
It's important to keep a spare car key handy, whether you lost your keys or they were stolen. It can save you money and time in the long in the long run. It will also save you from having to call for a tow when you are stuck without a key. There are a few options for getting keys that can be replaced, including locksmiths, dealerships and online services. These options vary in price and ease of use therefore you must research them before making a decision.
The type of key you need also affects the cost. Traditional keys are relatively cheap and easy 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 find or make. It is essential to keep an accurate record of your immobilizer's code as well as the key number that will help lower the overall cost.
The most reliable method to find an extra car key is to visit the dealer that sells the brand of your car. This will ensure that you have a key compatible with your car's system and has been programmed correctly. It's more expensive but you will be sure to have a key that functions when you require it. It is also the only way to get a key for certain newer models.