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How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It can be a major inconvenience to lose your car keys. It's essential to keep an extra key in the event that you lose or break your primary key. How much will it cost to purchase a spare car key?
The answer depends on several factors. This article will help you decide whether it's worth having an extra.
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Having a spare key for your vehicle is always a good idea as losing one can be a costly and stressful experience. The cost of an extra car key varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the type of car.
For instance, simple keys with no technology will be cheaper to replace because they require only a simple cut from blanks and do not require specialized encryption. However keys that are connected to a car fob or has a transponder chip will have to be programmed by experts which will increase the cost.
If you lose your only key, the first step is to locate an locksmith who has the ability to program your type of key. You can also try to save money by having the 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 number of your vehicle determines the cost of a spare key. For example, if you require a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the cost will be more expensive than for an entry-level vehicle. The type of material used to make the key will also impact the cost. For instance, it will cost less to replace a blank key than a complete key with an integrated fob. If spare keys for cars want to save money, many dealerships will also cut and program third-party keys for you.
Year
A spare car key is crucial particularly if your children are young and may be locked out of the car. You can purchase an extra car key in many ways, including visiting the dealership that you purchased your car from or by employing an auto locksmith, or ordering one online. Each method has its own costs and benefits. Before making a decision you must take into consideration both the type and type of lock. The more expensive a particular brand is, the higher the cost.
Key type
Having a spare key can prevent you from being left in the event that you lose your car keys. The cost of an extra key for your vehicle can differ based on the type of lock and key you have.
Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys, which operate by inserting the keys into the cylinder for ignition. These keys cost as little as $10. Chip keys or transponder keys are more costly and include a small chip that communicates to the vehicle in order to verify that the authenticity of the key. Dealerships are the only places that can duplicate these keys because they have all the necessary equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems, like remote starters or mirror folding options, can also increase the total cost of a replacement key. These features are helpful if you tend to lose your keys or leave them in odd places, however, they can also increase the likelihood of theft. You might want to consider putting a spare key in a different place and making it a routine of emptying your pockets before getting into your car. This way, you can be sure that your spare key will be there whenever you require it.
Locks
A spare car key could be a smart choice. You can save yourself lots of hassle when you lock your keys in the car or lose them. Keep your spare key somewhere safe and easy to locate. You can leave it in a key holder placed on the wall or in a drawer of your kitchen.
The type of lock you have on your vehicle will also influence the cost of a replacement key. The cost of replacing traditional keys that unlock the car door by inserting them into the lock is less than replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs generate an electronic code that enables you to unlock your car or start it from the distance.
If you lose your smart key, then you'll need to go to a dealership or locksmith for an alternative. They will verify that you have ownership of the vehicle. This could require you to present proof like the title or registration.
In the past, it wasn't a big deal to lose your car keys. With the advancements in technology of automobiles, it's no longer as simple to find a spare. It can be expensive to get a new key made by a locksmith or dealer. Here are a few tips to aid you in estimating the cost of a brand new spare car key.
Dealership
If you've lost your car keys or were stolen, it's crucial to have a spare key on hand. You'll save time and money in the long run. You'll also not have to request a tow in the event that you are stuck without a key. There are several options to obtain keys that can be replaced, including dealerships, locksmiths and online services. The options are varied in terms of cost and convenience and you should investigate the options before making a final decision.
The cost will also depend on the type of key you require. Keys of the traditional type, also known as basic keys, are relatively affordable and simple to replace, whereas more advanced keys are 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 log of the immobilizer code, as well as your key number. This will help you to save money.
The most reliable way to find a spare car key is to visit the dealership that sells your vehicle's model. You will get keys that are compatible with your vehicle's system and has been programmed correctly. It can be more expensive than other alternatives, but it is the most surefire method of ensuring that you have a working key in case you require it. It is also the only way to obtain a key for certain newer models.