How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It can be a major inconvenience to lose your car keys. It is essential to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break your primary key. How much does it cost to get a spare car key?
The answer will depend on a number of factors. This article will help you determine if it's worth having a spare made.
Make
It is always a smart idea to keep a spare car key as losing a key can be expensive and stressful. However, the cost of having a spare key may differ based on the vehicle's model and make and also the type of key.
For example, basic keys that contain no technology will be cheaper to replace as they require only a simple cut from blanks and do not require specialized encryption. However G28 Car Keys that are connected to a car fob or transponder chips will have to be programmed by experts and will increase the price.
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. Alternately, you could attempt to save money by having the new key cut and programming it yourself. You can find the process in the owner's manual or on the internet for "how do I program (your year make and model) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model of your vehicle influences the cost of a spare car key. For instance, if you require a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the cost will be higher than for an entry-level car. The type of materials used to create the key also impacts the price. For instance, it'll cost less to replace an uncut key than a complete key with an integrated fob. Many dealers can cut and program a third-party key for you if you prefer to save money.
Year
It is important to have a spare car key, especially if you have young children who might lock themselves in the vehicle. You can get a spare car key various ways, such as going to the dealership you bought your vehicle from or employing an auto locksmith, or purchasing one from the internet. Each comes with its own costs and advantages. You should be aware of the type of key you want and the lock type prior to making a decision. The more expensive a brand is, the higher the cost.
Type of key
Having a spare key can prevent you from being stuck in the event you lose the car keys you use for your primary. 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 that operate by inserting the keys into the cylinder of ignition. The cost of these keys is as little as $10. The more expensive alternatives chip keys, also known as transponder keys, are equipped with a tiny electronic chip inside the key head that communicates with the vehicle to verify that it is a genuine key. These kinds of keys are only able to be duplicated by dealerships, as they have the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced systems, such as remote starters or mirror folding can increase the cost of the replacement of keys. These options are beneficial if you tend to lose keys or place keys in strange places, however, they can also increase the risk for theft. It's worth placing the spare key in a separate place and establishing a routine to clear your pockets of anything you don't require before getting into your car. You can be sure your spare key is there when you need to use it.
Locks
Having a spare car key is a smart move. It will save you a lot of hassle if you lose your keys or have them locked in your car. However, you should always keep your spare keys in a safe place, and make sure to put it somewhere easily accessible. For instance the wall-mounted key holder or an open drawer in your kitchen are good places to leave it.
The type of lock on your vehicle will also influence the cost of a replacement key. Keys that are traditional, which slide into a lock and open the car doors, are cheaper to replace than smart key fobs, which emit an electronic code that lets you unlock or start your car from the distance.
If you lose your smart keys, you'll need to go to a locksmith or dealer to get an alternative. These specialists will need to verify 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 deal to lose your car keys. With the advancements in technology of automobiles, it's not as simple to find an extra. You'll need to visit an authorized dealer or locksmith to have a new key made for you and it can be expensive. Here are some suggestions to help you figure out the cost to have a spare car key made.
Dealership
It's essential to keep a spare car key handy, whether you lost your keys or they were stolen. You'll save money and time in the long run. You'll also not have to call for a tow when you find yourself stranded without keys. There are a few options for getting an alternative key, such as dealerships, locksmiths and online services. You must compare the cost and convenience of these options before making a choice.
The kind of key you require also affects the cost. Keys of the traditional type, also known as basic keys, are inexpensive and easy to replace, whereas more sophisticated keys are more expensive. Some features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start, may require specific components that are more difficult to locate or make. You should keep a record of the immobilizer code, and also your key number. This will allow you save money.
The most secure method to get a spare car key is to go to the dealership that sells your vehicle's brand. You will get keys that are compatible with your vehicle's system and is programmed correctly. It is more expensive than other alternatives, but it is the most reliable method of ensuring that you have a functioning key in case you require it. It is also the only way to obtain an authentic key for certain modern models.