How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?

It can be a major inconvenience to lose your car keys. It's important to keep one spare in case you lose or break your primary key. How much does it cost to get a spare car key?

The answer depends on a myriad of factors. This article will help you determine whether it's worthwhile to have an extra made.

Make

Having a spare key for your car is always a good idea, since losing a key can be a costly and stressful experience. But the cost of having a spare key can differ depending on the make and model and also the kind of key.

For instance, simple keys with no technology will be less expensive to replace as they require only a simple cut from a blank and do not require specialized encoders. However, a key that is integrated with a car fob or transponder chips will have to be programmed by specialists which will increase the cost.

If you've lost your primary key, the first step is to find a locksmith that has the ability to program the type of key you want. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. The procedure for doing this is outlined in the owner's manual or you can go online for "how to get spare car keys to program (your year model, make, and year) key." This can help you 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 cost will be higher than that of an entry-level car. The cost is also influenced by the kind of material used to create the key. For instance, it will cost less to replace the key with a blank one than a complete key that has an integrated fob. If you want to save money, a lot of dealers will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.

Year

It is important to have an extra car key particularly if you have young children who could get locked out of car no spare key out of the car. There are several options to obtain an extra key, such as visiting the dealership where you purchased your car, using an auto locksmith, or getting one online. Each choice comes with its own set of costs and advantages. Before making a choice, you should consider the type and design of lock. Generally speaking, the more expensive the brand is, the higher the cost will be.

Key type

A spare key will ensure that you don't end up in a bind when you lose your main car keys. The cost of a spare key for your car can differ based on the type of lock and key you own.

Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys that operate by inserting the keys into the cylinder of ignition. The cost of these keys is as little as $10. The more expensive alternative keys, also known as transponder keys or chip keys, are equipped with a tiny electronic chip inside the head that communicates with the vehicle to confirm it's a valid key. Dealerships are the only place that can duplicate these keys as they have all of the equipment needed to program them.

Other advanced features, such as remote starters and mirror folding options, could also increase the total cost of a replacement key. These extra features can be useful if you're susceptible to losing your keys or leave them in odd places but they also increase the likelihood of theft. Consider putting your spare keys in a different location and make it a habit of emptying your pockets prior getting into your vehicle. You can be sure that your spare key is available whenever you need it.

Locks

A spare car key could be a wise decision. It will save you a lot of stress if you lose your keys or lock them in the car. However, you must keep your spare key in a safe place, and put it somewhere easy to find. For example, a wall-mounted key holder or an open drawer in your kitchen are both good places to leave it.

The type of lock you have on your vehicle will also impact the cost of replacing a spare key. Traditional keys, which are inserted into a lock and then open the doors of your car, are cheaper to replace than smart key fobs which transmit an electronic code that lets you unlock or start the car from the distance.

If you lose your smart keys, you'll have to visit a locksmith or dealership to obtain an alternative. These specialists will need to confirm that you're the owner of the vehicle, which may require providing proof such as the registration number or title.

In the past, it wasn't a big issue to lose your car spare key keys. With the advancements in technology for cars, it is not as easy to get 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 guidelines to help you figure out the cost to get a spare car key made.

Dealership

It's important to keep a spare Key for car cost car key handy in case you lose your keys or they were stolen. It will save you time and money in the long run. It also stops you from needing to call a tow truck if you are stranded with no key. There are several alternatives to replace your key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. It is important to compare the costs and convenience of these choices before making a choice.

The type of key you need also affects the cost. Traditional keys are relatively cheap and simple to replace. Keys with more advanced features are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start might require special components, which are harder to find or manufacture. It's important to have an inventory of your immobilizer code and key number that will help lower the overall cost.

Visit the dealership that sells the name of your car to purchase an extra key. This will ensure that you have a key that's 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 need one. It is also the only method to get keys for some of the latest models.