How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It's a huge inconvenience to lose your car keys. It's essential to keep one spare in the event that you lose or break your primary key. But how much does a spare key for your car cost?
The answer will depend on several factors. This article will look at those factors to determine if it's worth getting a spare key made.
Make
It is always a smart idea to keep a spare car key, since losing a car key can be costly and stressful. However, the cost of having a spare key could differ depending on the model and make and the kind of key you have.
Basic keys, like keys that do not have any technology are less expensive to replace because they only require the simple cutting of the blank. They don't require an encoding system that is specialized. A key that is integrated into a car fob or is equipped with a chip will require programming and will be more expensive.
If you have lost your sole key, the first step is to locate an locksmith who has a machine capable of programming your particular type of key. Alternatively, you can try to save money by having a new key cut, and then programming it yourself. You can find the procedure in your owner's guide 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 number of your vehicle determines the cost of the spare car key. For instance, if require a replacement key for a luxury or premium model, the price will be higher than that of an entry-level vehicle. The type of materials used to make the key will also impact the price. It is more affordable to replace a blank rather than one with an integrated key fob. If you want to save money, a lot of dealerships will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.
Year
A spare car key is vital especially if your kids are young and could lock themselves inside the vehicle. There are many options to obtain an extra key, such as going to the dealership where you purchased your automobile, utilizing an auto locksmith, or purchasing one on the internet. Each option comes with its own costs and benefits. You must take into consideration the type of lock and the lock type before making a decision. The more expensive a brand is, the more expensive the price.
Key type
Having a spare key can prevent you from being stuck in the event that you lose your primary car keys. The cost of a spare key for your car could vary based on the type of lock and key you have.
Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys that function by inserting the key into the cylinder for ignition. They can cost less than $10. The more expensive alternatives chip keys, also known as transponder keys, have a small electronic chip in the key head that communicates with the vehicle to verify it's a valid key. Dealerships are the only places that can duplicate these keys because they have all the necessary equipment to program them.
Other advanced systems, such as remote starters and mirror folding can increase the cost of replacing keys. These extra features can be useful if you're prone to losing your keys or have a tendency to leave them in odd places however, they also increase the risk of theft. Consider leaving a spare in a different place and making it a routine of emptying your pockets prior to getting into your vehicle. This way, you can be certain that your spare key will be there when you need it.
Locks
A spare car key could be a wise decision. You'll avoid many headaches by locking your keys in the car or lose them. However, you must keep your spare key in a secure location, and ensure that you leave it somewhere that is easy to find. You can put it in a key holder on the wall or in a drawer of your kitchen.
The type of locks on your car can also affect the cost of replacing keys that are spare. The cost of replacing traditional keys that open the car's door by inserting into the lock is less expensive than the cost of replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs transmit an electronic code that allows you to open the car or start it from an extended distance.
If you lose your smart keys you'll need to visit a locksmith or dealership to obtain an alternative. The experts will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle, which could require proof such as the registration number or title.
In the past, it wasn't a big deal to lose your car keys. With the advancements in technology of cars, it is not as simple to find a spare. You'll have to go to an authorized dealer or locksmith to have a new one made for you and it could be expensive. Here are some suggestions to help you determine the cost to have a spare car key made.
Dealership
It's important to keep an extra car key in your pocket regardless of whether you lost your keys or were stolen. It can save you money and time in the long run. It also stops you from needing to call a tow truck if you're stuck without a key. There are spare key fob of options to obtain a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services and locksmiths. You should compare the price and convenience of these choices before making a choice.
The cost will also be contingent on the type of key that you require. Keys of the traditional type, also known as basic keys are inexpensive and easy to replace, while more advanced keys will be more expensive. Some features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start, might require specific components that are more difficult to find or make. Keep a record of the immobilizer code, along with your key number. This will help you to save money.
The most reliable method to obtain an extra car key is to visit the dealer that sells your vehicle's brand. This will ensure that you have a key that is compatible with your car's systems and is properly programmed. It's more expensive however, you'll be sure to have a key that functions in the event that you require one. It is also typically the only way to obtain the key for certain newer models of vehicles.