How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It's an enormous inconvenience to lose your car keys. It is essential to have a spare in the event that you lose or break your primary key. What is the cost of an extra key for your vehicle cost?
The answer depends on a myriad of factors. This article will help you decide whether it's worth having an extra.
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It is always a smart idea to have a spare car key, since losing a key could be costly and stressful. However, the cost of having a spare key may differ depending on the model and make, as well as the kind of key.
For instance, keys that are basic that do not have any technology will be less expensive to replace because they only require a simple cutting from blanks and do not require specialized encryption. Keys that are integrated into a car fob or has a chip, will require programming, and will cost more.
If you lose your only key, the first step is to find a locksmith that has the ability to program the type of key you want. Alternately, you could attempt to save money by having a new key cut and programming it yourself. You can find the process 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 example, if you require a replacement for a premium or luxury model, the price will be higher than that of an entry-level vehicle. The type of material used to create the key also impacts the cost. It is more affordable to replace a blank rather than the key that has an integrated key fob. Many dealerships can also cut and program a key from a third party for you if you prefer to save money.
Year
spare car key fob is essential especially if your kids are still young and might be locked out of the car. There are several options to obtain an extra key, which includes going to the dealership where you bought your vehicle, using an auto locksmith, or getting one on the internet. Each method has the associated costs and advantages. Before making a choice you must take into consideration both the type and type of lock. The more expensive a particular brand is, the greater the price.
Type of key
A spare key can help you avoid being left in the event that you lose your car keys. The cost of having a spare key for your car can differ based on the type of lock and key you own.
Keys that are mechanically made and are operated by inserting them into an ignition cylinder can be cut for less than $10 at the hardware store or locksmith. Transponder keys or chip keys are more expensive and have small chips that communicate with the vehicle to confirm the authenticity of the key. Dealerships are the only ones that can duplicate these keys, because they have all the necessary equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems such as remote starters and mirror folding can make it more expensive for a key replacement. These additional features can be useful if you're susceptible to losing your keys or leave them in strange places but they also increase the chance of theft. You may want to consider placing the spare key in a different location and establishing a routine to empty your pockets of anything you don't require before getting into your car. You can be sure that your spare key is available whenever you need it.
Locks
The idea of 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 if you lock them in the car. However, you should always keep your spare key in a secure place and ensure that you place it in a place that is easily accessible. For example, a wall-mounted key holder or an open drawer in your kitchen are both good places to leave it.
The type of locks on your car can also affect the cost of replacing a spare key. Traditional keys, which insert into a lock and then open the doors of your car are less expensive to replace than smart key fobs, which transmit an electronic code that allows you to unlock or start your car from a distance.
If you lose your smart key, you'll need to go to a dealership or locksmith for a replacement. They will verify that you have ownership of the vehicle. This may require you to provide proof such as the title or registration.
In the past it wasn't such a big deal to lose your car keys. With the advancements in technology of cars, it is not as easy to get a spare. It can be costly to have a new key made by a locksmith or dealer. Here are a few tips to help you estimate the cost of a new spare car key.
Dealership
It's essential to keep a spare car key handy, whether you lost your keys or were stolen. It will save you time and money in the long run. It also helps you avoid having to call a tow truck in the event that you are stuck without a key. There are a variety of options for getting keys that can be replaced, including dealerships, locksmiths, and online services. You must compare the cost and convenience of these options before deciding.
The cost will also depend on the type of key that you need. Keys of the traditional type, also known as basic keys are inexpensive and easy to replace, whereas more advanced keys will be more expensive. Some features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation remote start, and alarm activation, could require specific components that are more difficult to locate or create. Keep a record of the immobilizer code, and also your key number. This will help you to save money.
The most reliable way to get a spare car key is to go to the dealer that sells your vehicle's brand. This will ensure that you have a key compatible with your car's system and has been programmed correctly. It is more expensive, but you will be sure to have a key that functions in the event that you require one. It is also often the only way to get keys for newer models of vehicles.