How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
The loss of your car keys can be a huge hassle, and it's important to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break the one you have. But what is an extra key for your car cost?
The answer will depend on a variety of factors. This article will explore the factors that will help you decide whether it's worth having an extra key made.
Make
The idea of having a spare key for your car is always a good idea since losing a key can be a stressful and costly experience. However, the cost of having a spare key may vary depending on your vehicle's model and make and also the type of key you have.
For instance, keys that are basic that contain no technology will be less expensive to replace because they require a simple cutting from an empty piece of paper and do not need specialized encoding. A key that is integrated into a car fob or has a chip will require programming and will be more expensive.
If you've lost your only key, your first step is to find a local locksmith with a computer that can program the type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. You can locate the procedure in your owner's guide or search online for "how do I program (your year model and year of manufacture) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model of your vehicle determines the cost of the spare car key. If you require a key replacement for a luxury model or premium vehicle the price will be higher. The kind of material used to make the key also impacts the cost. For instance, it'll cost less to replace a blank key than a key that is complete with an integrated fob. If get a spare key made near me want to save money, a lot of dealers will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.
Year
It is essential to have an extra car key especially if you have children who could be locked in the car. There are a variety of options to obtain an extra key, which includes visiting the dealership where you purchased your car, using an auto locksmith, or purchasing one online. Each option comes with its own cost and benefits. Before making a choice you must take into consideration the type and design of lock. In general the more expensive the brand, the higher the cost will be.
Key type
A spare key will allow you to avoid being stranded when you lose your main car keys. However the cost of the spare car key may vary greatly depending on the lock type your vehicle uses and the type of key you have.
Hardware stores and locksmiths can cut mechanical keys, which operate by inserting the keys into the cylinder of ignition. They can cost less than $10. Transponder keys or chip keys are more expensive and feature a small chip that communicates with the vehicle to confirm the keys are valid. These types of keys can only be duplicated by dealerships, since they have the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems like mirror folding or remote starters can also increase the cost of the replacement of keys. These extra features can be beneficial if you are prone to losing your keys, or have a tendency to place them in a strange location but they also increase the risk of theft. You may want to consider leaving the spare key in a separate place and establishing a routine to empty your pockets of all items you don't use before getting into your vehicle. This way, you'll be certain that your spare key will be in your possession whenever you require it.
Locks
Having a spare car key is a smart idea. You'll save yourself lots of hassle if you lock your keys inside the car or lose them. However, you should always keep your spare key in a secure location, and ensure that you place it in a place that is easy to find. You can leave it in a key holder that is on the wall or in a drawer of your kitchen.
The type of lock that you put on your vehicle can also affect the cost of replacing a key. Traditional keys, which insert into a lock and then open the doors to the car, are cheaper to replace than smart key fobs that emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock or start the car from the distance.
If you lose your smart keys you'll have to visit an authorized locksmith or a dealership to obtain an alternative. They will have to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle, which could require providing proof such as the registration number or title.
In the past it wasn't such a big issue to lose your car keys. However, with the technological advances in automobiles, it's not as simple to get an extra. It can be expensive to have a new key made by a locksmith or dealer. Here are some suggestions to help you determine the cost to have a spare car key made.
Dealership
It's essential to keep an extra car key on hand in case you lose your keys or they were stolen. It can save you time and money in the long in the long run. You will also avoid having to call for a tow if you're stuck without a key. There are a few options to obtain a replacement key, including locksmiths, dealerships and online services. You should compare the price and convenience of these choices before making a decision.
The cost will also depend on the type of key you need. Keys that are traditional are inexpensive and simple to replace. More advanced keys are more expensive. Certain features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start might require special components, which are harder to locate or make. Keep a record of the immobilizer code, as well as your key number. This will allow you to save money.
The most secure method to obtain an extra car key is to go to the dealership that sells the brand of your car. This will ensure that you have a key that's compatible with your car's systems and is programmed properly. It's more expensive but you will be sure to have a key that works when you need one. It is also the only method to get keys for some of the latest models.