How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
Losing your car keys can be a huge hassle, and it's crucial to have a spare key in case you lose or break the one you have. How much will it cost to buy a replacement car key?
The answer will depend on a variety of factors. This article will help you determine whether it's worthwhile to have an extra.
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It's always a good idea to have a spare car key since losing a key could be expensive and stressful. The cost of the spare car key is dependent on the brand and model of the vehicle and the type of car.
For instance, keys that are basic that contain no technology will be less expensive to replace since they require a simple cutting from a blank and do not need specialized encryption. However keys that are connected to a car fob or has transponder chips will need to be programmed by experts and will increase the price.
If you lose your only key, the first step is to find an authorized locksmith with an equipment that can program your type of key. Alternately, you could attempt to save money by having the new key cut and programming it yourself. You can locate the procedure in the owner's manual, or search online for "how do I program (your year, make, and model) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model of your car influences the cost of an extra key. For instance, if require a replacement for a premium or luxury model, the cost will be higher than that of an entry-level vehicle. The kind of material used to create the key also impacts the price. It is cheaper to replace a blank key than the key that has an integrated key fob. Many dealerships can also cut and program a third-party key for you if you prefer to save money.
Year
A spare car key is vital, especially if your children are young and could lock themselves inside the vehicle. You can get an extra car key in many ways, including going to the dealership you purchased your car from, hiring an auto locksmith or purchasing one from the internet. Each option comes with its own cost and advantages. Before you make a decision you must consider the type and design of lock. Typically speaking, the more expensive the brand the more expensive the price will be.
Type of key
Having a spare key can prevent you from being stuck in the event that you lose your primary car keys. However the cost of having a spare car key can vary greatly depending on the type of lock your vehicle is using as well as the kind of key you have.
Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys, which operate by inserting the keys into the cylinder of ignition. They can cost as little as $10. Transponder keys or chip keys are more costly and include small chips that communicate to the vehicle to verify that the keys are valid. Dealerships are the only place that can duplicate keys, as they have all of the necessary equipment to program them.
Other advanced systems like remote starters and mirror folding can make it more expensive for replacing keys. These features are helpful for those who tend to lose keys or leave keys in odd places but they increase the chance of theft. It's worth placing the spare key in a separate place and making it a routine to empty your pockets of anything you don't require before you get into your car. You can be certain that your spare key is available in case you need it.
Locks
The idea of having a spare car key is a smart thing to do. It will save you a lot of stress in the event that you lose your keys or if you lock them in the car. However, you must keep your spare keys in a secure location, and place it in a place that is easily accessible. For instance an affixed key holder on the wall or a drawer in your kitchen are great places to put it.
The type of locks on your car will also affect the cost of replacing the spare key. The cost of replacing the traditional keys that unlock the car door by inserting into the lock is less than replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs transmit an electronic code that allows you to open the car or start it from the distance.
If you lose your smart key, you'll have to visit a dealership or locksmith for a replacement. spare car keys will verify that you have the vehicle. It may be necessary for you to present proof like the title or registration.
In the past it wasn't such a big problem to lose your car keys. However, with spare car key replacement in technology in cars, it's not as easy to find an extra. You'll need to either visit an auto dealer or a 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 a new spare car key.
Dealership
Whether you lost your keys to your car or were stolen, it's essential to have a spare key in your side. You'll save money and time in the long term. You'll also not have to call for a tow if you are stuck without a key. There are several options to obtain a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. It is important to compare the costs and convenience of these options before making a choice.
The type of key you require can also affect the price. Keys that are traditional are inexpensive and easy to replace. Keys with more advanced features are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start, may require specific components that are more difficult to find or manufacture. It's important to have a record of your immobilizer's code and the number of your key that will help lower the overall cost.
The most secure method to find an extra car key is to visit the dealer that sells your vehicle's brand. You'll receive keys that are compatible with your vehicle's system and has been programmed correctly. It's more expensive, but you will be sure to have a key that functions in the event that you require one. It is also typically the only way to get a key for some more recent vehicles.