How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?

Losing your car keys can be a major hassle and it's important to have an extra key in case you lose or break the one you have. But what is an extra key for your car cost?

The answer depends on a myriad of factors. This article will help you decide if it's worth having a spare made.

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It's always a good idea to have an extra car key spare since losing a car key can be expensive and stressful. However, the cost of having a spare key may vary depending on your vehicle's make and model and the type of key you have.

Basic keys, for instance, that do not contain any technology are cheaper to replace since they require the simple cutting of a blank. They also don't need an encoding system that is specialized. A key that is integrated into a car fob or is equipped with a chip will need to be programmed and will cost more.

If you've lost your only key, the first step should be to find a local locksmith who has a machine that can program the type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. The process for doing this is outlined in your owner's manual, or you can search online for "how to program (your year model, make, and year) key." This may help you save up to $150.

Model

The model of your vehicle will determine the cost of the spare key. If you require the replacement of a key for a luxury model or premium vehicle, the cost will be higher. The kind of material used to create keys also affects the cost. It is more affordable to replace a blank than a key with an integrated key fob. Many dealerships can also cut and program a key from a different company for you if you prefer to save money.

Year

A spare car key is essential particularly if your children are young and could get locked inside the car. There are a variety of options to obtain an extra key, which includes visiting the dealership from which you bought your vehicle, using an auto locksmith, or purchasing one on the internet. Each comes with its own costs and benefits. It is important to be aware of the type of lock and the lock type prior to making a decision. Generally speaking, the more expensive the lock, the higher the cost will be.

Type of key

A spare key will allow you to avoid being without a place to go if you lose your main car keys. The cost of an extra key for your car can vary based on the type of lock and key you own.

Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys, which work by inserting the key into the cylinder of ignition. They can cost less than $10. Transponder keys or chip keys are more expensive and feature tiny chips that talk with the vehicle to confirm the authenticity of the key. Dealerships are the only place where you can duplicate these keys, as they have all of the necessary equipment needed to program them.

Other advanced systems, such as remote starters or mirror folding options, may also add to the overall cost of replacing a key. These features are helpful if you tend to lose your keys or put keys in odd places but they increase the chance of theft. You might want to consider putting a spare key in a different location and make it a habit of emptying your pockets prior getting into your car. This way, you'll ensure that your spare key for car cost key will be in your possession in case you require it.

Locks

A spare car key could be a wise choice. You'll avoid many headaches if you lock your keys inside the car or lose them. It is recommended to keep your spare key somewhere safe and easy to locate. You can put it in a key holder placed on the wall or in a drawer in your kitchen.

The type of locks you use on your car will also affect the cost of replacing keys that are spare. The cost of replacing the traditional keys that open the car's door by inserting them into the lock is less than the cost of replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs transmit 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 require a dealership or locksmith for a replacement. The experts will confirm that you own the vehicle. This may require you to show proof of ownership like the title or registration.

In the past the days of losing your car keys was not a major issue. However, with the advancements in technology in cars, it's not as easy to find a spare. You'll have to go to an authorized dealer or locksmith to have a brand new key made for you, and that can be costly. Here are some tips to aid you in estimating the cost of purchasing a new spare car key.

Dealership

It is essential to keep a spare car key handy regardless of whether you lost your keys or were stolen. You can save time and money in the long term. It also helps you avoid having to call a truck in the event that you are stuck without a key. There are several options to obtain a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. You must compare the cost and convenience of these options before making a decision.

The cost will also be contingent on the type of key that you need. Traditional keys, or basic keys, are affordable and simple to replace, whereas more advanced keys will be more expensive. Certain features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start may require special components, which are harder to locate or make. It's important to have an accurate record of your immobilizer's code and the key number that will help reduce the overall costs.

Visit the dealership that sells the brand of your vehicle to get a spare key car key. This will ensure that you have a key compatible with the car's system and is programmed properly. It's more expensive however, you'll be sure to have a key that functions when you need one. Additionally, it is typically the only way to obtain keys for more recent vehicles.