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 key for car cost (read) in case you lose or break your primary key. But what is an extra key for your vehicle cost?

The answer depends on a myriad of factors. This article will explore those factors to help you decide whether it's worth having an extra key made.

Make

It's always a good idea to have an extra car key as losing a key can be costly and stressful. However, the cost of having a spare key could differ based on the vehicle's model and make, as well as the kind of key.

Basic keys, for instance, that do not contain any technology, are cheaper to replace as they require an easy cut from the blank. They also don't require special encoding. However, a key that is fitted with a car fob or has transponder chips will have to be programmed by specialists, which will increase the price.

If you have lost your sole key, the first step is to find an locksmith who has the ability to program your type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. You can find the process in the owner's manual, or go online to search for "how do I program (your year, make, and model) key." You could save up to $150.

Model

The model number of your car determines the cost of the spare car key. If you require the replacement of a key for a high-end model or a premium vehicle, the cost will be higher. The cost is also affected by the kind of material used in the making of the key. For example, it will cost less to replace an uncut key than a complete key with an integrated fob. Many dealers can cut and program a key from a third party for you, if you want to save money.

Year

A spare car key is crucial especially if your kids are young and could lock themselves inside the vehicle. There are many options to obtain a spare key, including visiting the dealership from which you purchased your car, using an auto locksmith, or purchasing one on the internet. Each choice comes with its own set of costs and benefits. You should consider the type of key and the lock type before making a choice. Typically speaking the more expensive the lock, the higher the cost will be.

Key type

A spare key can help you avoid being stranded in the event you lose the car keys you use for your primary. However the cost of having an extra car key could vary greatly depending on the lock type your vehicle is using and the type of key you own.

Traditional purely mechanical keys that work by inserting them into the ignition cylinder, they can be cut for just $10 at the hardware store or locksmith. Transponder keys or chip keys are more expensive and feature small chips that communicate to the vehicle to confirm the keys are valid. Dealerships are the only places that can duplicate keys, as they have all of the necessary equipment needed to program them.

Other advanced systems such as mirror folding or remote starters can increase the cost of replacing keys. These features are helpful for those who tend to lose keys or leave them in odd places, however, they can increase the chance of theft. Consider putting your spare keys in a different spot and establish a routine of emptying your pockets prior getting into your car. You can be sure your spare key is available whenever you need it.

Locks

A spare car key can be a wise decision. You can save yourself many headaches if you lock your keys in the car or lose them. However, you should always keep your spare key in a secure place and leave it somewhere that is easily accessible. For instance an affixed key holder on the wall or the kitchen drawer are great places to leave it.

The type of lock you have on your vehicle will also impact the cost of replacing keys that are spare. The cost of replacing the traditional keys that open the car door by inserting into the lock is less than replacing smart key fobs. Smart key fobs transmit an electronic code that allows you to unlock the car or start it from the distance.

If you lose your smart key, you will require the dealership or locksmith to get a replacement. The experts will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle, and may require providing proof such as the registration number or title.

In the past it wasn't a huge problem to lose your car keys. However, with the advancements in technology in cars, it's no longer as easy to get an extra. It can be costly to get a new key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some suggestions to assist you in estimating the cost of a new spare car key.

Dealership

If you've lost your keys to your car or were stolen, it's essential to have a spare key in the side. It will save you time and money in the long time. It also helps you avoid needing to call a tow truck in the event that you are stuck with no key. There are several alternatives to replace your key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. These options differ in cost and accessibility therefore you must research them before making a decision.

The type of key you need spare car key also affects the cost. Keys of the traditional type, also known as basic keys, are affordable and simple to replace, while more advanced keys will be more expensive. Some features, like mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start may require special components that are more difficult to locate or make. Keep a record of the immobilizer's number, along with your key number. This will allow you to save money.

Visit the dealer that sells the brand of your car to purchase an extra key. You will get an appropriate key that is compatible with your vehicle's system, and that 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 way to get an authentic key for certain modern models.