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How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It's a huge inconvenience to lose your car keys. It's important to keep an extra key 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 if it's worth having a spare made.
Make sure you make use of
It's always a good idea to keep an extra car key since losing a car key can be expensive and stressful. The cost of a spare car key varies according to the make and model of your car, as well as its type.
For example, basic keys that do not have any technology will be less expensive to replace as they require a simple cutting from blanks and do not require specialized encoding. However, get spare key made that is fitted with a car fob or 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 an equipment that can program your particular type of key. Alternatively, you can attempt to save money by having the new key cut and then programming it yourself. The process for doing this is outlined in your owner's manual, or you can go on the internet for "how to program (your year, make, and model) key." This may help you save up to $150.
Model
The model of your car influences the cost of the spare key. If you need the replacement of a key for a luxury model or a premium vehicle the price will be more expensive. The cost is also influenced by the type of material used to make the key. For example, it will cost less to replace a blank key than a complete key that has an integrated fob. If you want to save money, a lot of dealers will also cut and program third-party keys for you.
Year
A spare car key is essential especially if your kids are young and could get locked inside the car. There are many ways to get an extra key, such as visiting the dealership where you purchased your vehicle, using an auto locksmith, or getting one on the internet. Each method has its own set of costs and advantages. You should take into consideration the type of lock and the lock type prior to making a choice. In general, the more expensive the brand the more expensive the price will be.
Type of key
Having a spare key can help you avoid being left in the event you lose the car keys you use for your primary. However the cost of having the spare car key may differ greatly based on the lock type your vehicle is using and the type of key you have.
Keys that are mechanically made and are operated by inserting them into an ignition cylinder, they can be cut for less than $10 at the hardware store or locksmith. Chip keys, also known as transponder keys, are more expensive and feature tiny chips that talk to the vehicle to verify that the authenticity of the key. Dealerships are the only ones where you can duplicate keys, because they have all the necessary equipment to program them.
Other advanced systems, like remote starters or mirror folding options, may be a factor in the overall cost of a replacement key. These extra features are beneficial if you are prone to misplacing your keys or leave them in odd places however, they also increase the chance of theft. It's worth leaving the spare key in a different location and making it a routine to take out anything you don't require before getting into your vehicle. This way, you'll be sure that your spare key will be available whenever you require it.
Locks
Having a spare car key is a smart move. It can save you a lot of trouble when you lose your keys or lock them in your car. Keep your spare keys in a safe place and easy to locate. You can put it in a key holder that is on the wall or in a drawer of your kitchen.
The type of locks on your vehicle will also impact the cost of replacing a spare key. The cost of replacing traditional keys that open the car's door by inserting them into the lock is less expensive than replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs transmit an electronic code that allows you to unlock your car or start it from a distance.
If you have lost your smart keys, you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or a dealership to get a replacement. These specialists will verify that you have ownership of the vehicle. It may be necessary for you to show proof of ownership such as the title or registration.
In the past, losing your car keys was not a big deal. With the technological advancements of cars, it is not as simple to find a spare. It can be expensive to have a new key made by a locksmith or dealer. Here are some guidelines to help you determine how much it will cost to get a replacement car key made.
Dealership
If you've lost your car keys or they were stolen, it's important to have a spare key on your side. You'll save time and money in the long term. It also prevents you from having to call a tow truck if you are stranded without a key. There are several options to get a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. These options vary in price and ease of use, so you should research them before making a decision.
The type of key you require also affects the cost. Keys that are traditional are inexpensive and simple to replace. Keys with more advanced features are more expensive. Some features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start, may require special components that are more difficult to locate or create. It is important to keep an accurate record of your immobilizer code and the key number that will help reduce the overall costs.
Visit the dealer that sells the name of your vehicle to obtain an extra key. This will ensure that you have a key compatible with the car's system and is properly programmed. It is more expensive than other options, but it is the most reliable method to ensure that you have a functioning key in case you require it. In addition, it is typically the only way to get keys for newer models of vehicles.