How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
The possession of a spare car key is essential to have peace of mind in case you lose or break your primary key. However, it can be expensive.
The cost is contingent on where you have the spare key made, whether at a dealership or through an locksmith. The cost is also contingent on the type you need.
Dealerships
One of the most popular options to get a replacement key is through a dealer. When requesting a replacement key, the dealer may require information such as vehicle model and make, VIN, and the year. In addition, the dealer might request evidence of ownership and proof of identity to ensure that the replacement key is given to the rightful owner. Depending on the kind of key, this procedure can be relatively efficient and cost-effective, however it is also important to keep in mind that dealership services are generally more expensive than other alternatives.
Alternately, you can purchase a standard spare car key at a hardware store or locksmith and program it yourself. A lot of automakers allow drivers to do this, and it is usually covered in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website. However, this process is generally more time-consuming and could be more expensive than contacting the locksmith.
It is common to get a metal key replaced by a locksmith local to you at a cost of only a couple of dollars. If your key is one that is electronic or has a transponder chip, the price is significantly more expensive. You can expect to pay between $50 and $200.
In the majority of instances, it is recommended to have an extra car key prior to losing your original. You won't be stuck, and you'll have an additional key in the event of an accident. It's a small cost to pay for peace of mind and the freedom to drive your car at any time you want.
While purchasing a new key may be a pain however, it's worth it in the event that you ever lose your original or have it stolen. Talk to your local automaker or locksmith before you decide on a service. You can also look up reliable key replacement companies and contact them with information about your vehicle to see if they can give you a quote for the service. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget in control.
Locksmiths
A spare car key can be a lifesaver in the event that you ever find yourself locked out of your car. It is crucial to keep the key in a secure location, however, since you don't want to lose it or lose it. Depending on the make and model of your car it could cost you anywhere from $50 to $200 to have an extra key made. There are a few ways to get a replacement car key, including the dealership, auto locksmith, and roadside assistance.
The best way to get a spare car key is to visit the dealership where you bought your car. The dealer will have a blank key and can program it to work with your vehicle. This is the most expensive option but it is the most surefire way to have a working key in case you lose the original key.
The cost can vary, but most locksmiths and hardware stores will make you an auto key. A basic car key that doesn't have a transponder can be made for under $10. However keys with fobs and smart key are more expensive.
If you're having a spare car key made, make sure you use a reliable locksmith. They should be DBS verified and checked, and accredited to carry out work of this type. They should be insured in the event that something goes wrong during the process of duplication.
Replacing a lost car key could be expensive, but it is worth the investment to have a spare in the event that you lose yours, or put it in your car. It is always better to be prepared than risking damaging your car by trying to pry the door off with a hanger. Make an extra key for your car and keep it in a safe place. You'll be grateful you did it if you ever need it!
Older Vehicles
Losing your car keys can be a major inconvenience. It can result in expensive repair bills and lost time, especially if cannot access your vehicle. You can avoid all these problems if you have an spare car key. A spare key can save you money in the end. How much does a spare key for the car cost? There are a few factors that could affect the price such as the model and make of the car and the kind of key.
There are various kinds of keys for cars, some more complex than others. The most common kind of key is the traditional key, which can be used to lock and unlock doors. They are simple to create and generally cost between $10 and $15 per copy. Other options include key fobs remote keys, and switchblade keys. They can be more sophisticated and include features such as alarm activation via remote. They are more expensive than conventional keys.
It's a good idea to have an extra car key in case you own an older vehicle. You can avoid the high cost of replacing a car that is newer. If you do lose your key, it is best to replace it immediately. This will allow you to access your vehicle and avoid theft.
A spare car key is a smart investment for any driver. Having a spare can be extremely useful in the event that you lose your key, or it is damaged. The cost of a replacement key varies depending on the model and make of the vehicle. It is essential to take these aspects into consideration when choosing the right provider.
Most modern cars also have an electronic chip that is embedded in the head of keys. This chip sends signals to a security system in the car which can verify the keys and permit drivers to open or start their car. If these chips are damaged or destroyed, they can be expensive to replace and could require the assistance of an expert locksmith or a dealership.
Newer Vehicles
For those old enough to recall, it was once quite easy to lose the car key and not be out many dollars. You could take the key's code from the owner's manual to a locksmith or hardware store to have a new one cut for a reasonable cost. Things are a bit more complicated today. Keys in the latest cars are embedded with chips, and they require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. There are also key fobs and laser cuts, as well switchblade keys, which all cost more than a mechanical key.
However, you can save up to 30 percent at Ace Hardware when you purchase your key replacements online and use their convenient store locator tool to locate the nearest location that can service your vehicle.