How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare key for your car is essential to ensure peace of mind in the event that you lose or damage your primary key. It could be costly.
The cost will vary based on where you've got the spare key made, whether at a dealership or through the locksmith. The cost varies also depending on the type of key you require.
Dealerships
The dealership is one of the most popular ways to obtain a replacement for a key. When you request a replacement key, the dealer might ask for details such as the vehicle's model and make, as well as the VIN, as well as the year. Additionally, the dealer may ask for evidence of ownership and proof of identity to ensure that the replacement key is issued to the rightful owner. This process can be quick and cost-effective, depending on the type of keys you require, however, dealer services are generally more expensive.
You can purchase a generic spare key at a hardware store locksmith, or online and program it yourself. This is a procedure that many automakers allow drivers to do, and the steps are usually included in the owner's guide or on the official website of the manufacturer. However, this process is usually slower and may be more expensive than calling the locksmith.
It is possible to have the replacement of a key made of metal by a locksmith local to you for just a couple of dollars. The price will be more expensive if your key is a transponder, or electronic fob. Expect to pay between $50 and $200.
In most cases, it is best to have an extra car key prior to losing your original. This way you won't be stranded and you will have a backup in case in the event of an emergency. It's a small cost to pay for peace of mind and the freedom to drive the car whenever you want.
While purchasing a new key isn't easy, it is definitely worth it in the event that you lose your original or get it stolen. If you are concerned about the expense of an extra car key, talk to your local locksmith or automaker before deciding on a specific service. You can also research reputable key replacement providers and provide them with details regarding your vehicle to find out if they can give you a quote for the service. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget under control.
Locksmiths
A spare car key can be a lifesaver if you ever have to be locked out of your vehicle. Keep the spare key in a secure place as you do not want it to be lost or stolen. A spare key will cost between $50 and $200, depending on the model and make of your car. You can obtain a replacement car key from a variety of sources, such as a dealership or auto-locksmith, as well as roadside assistance.
The dealer where you bought your vehicle is the best place to get a spare key. The dealer will have a blank key and can program it to work with your car. This is the most expensive option but it's the most surefire way to have a working key in the event that you lose the original key.
The price will vary, but most locksmiths and hardware stores will make an auto key. A basic car key that doesn't include a transponder could be made for under $10. However, a key fob and smart keys are more expensive.
If you need a spare key for your car, only use an auto locksmith that is reputable. They should pass an DBS check and be vetted. They must also be certified to perform this kind of work. spare key fob should also carry insurance that covers them in case something goes wrong during the key duplication process.
It can be expensive to replace keys that are lost, but it's worth it to have a spare in the event that you lose it, or keep it locked inside the car. It is better to be prepared rather than risking damaging your car by trying to open the door off with hangers. So, take the time to have a spare car key and store it in a safe place. You'll be glad that you did it if you need it one day!
Older vehicles
The loss of a car key could be a huge inconvenience. This could result in costly repair costs and a loss of time, particularly if your vehicle isn't able to be accessed. You can avoid all of these problems if you have an additional car key. A spare key will save you money in the end. But how much does an extra car key cost? There are several factors that affect the cost, including the make and model of the vehicle as well as the kind of key.
There are a variety of keys for cars, with some more complex than others. The most commonly used kind of key is the standard key, which can be used to lock and unlock doors. They are simple to make and cost between $10 and $15 per copy. Other options include key fobs remote keys and switchblade keys. These are more sophisticated and may include features such as alarm activation and remote start. However, they may be more expensive than traditional keys.
If you own an older vehicle it is an ideal idea to make a spare key prior to losing the original. This will save you the costly replacement costs associated with the latest model. If you lose your key it is best to replace it as soon as you can. This will allow you to access your vehicle and prevent theft.
A spare key for your car is a smart investment for any driver. Having a spare can be very useful in the event that you lose your key, or it is damaged. The cost of a spare car key can differ based on the make and model of the vehicle, and it is important to consider these factors when choosing the right service provider.
Modern cars are equipped with an electronic chip in the head of keys. This chip transmits a signal to the security system of the car, which can verify that the key is genuine and allows drivers to open the door or start the vehicle. If these chips are damaged or lost, they can be expensive to replace and may require the assistance of an auto locksmith or dealer.
Newer vehicles
For those of us old enough to remember, it was quite easy to lose a car key and not have to pay much money. You could take the code from the owner’s manual to the hardware store or locksmith and have an alternative key cut at the most affordable cost. It's a bit more complicated nowadays. Keys in modern cars are embedded with chips, and they require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. Key fobs are also available and laser cuts as well as switchblade keys that all cost more than a mechanical key.
Fortunately, you can still save up to 30% at Ace Hardware when you purchase the replacement keys online and use their store locator tool to locate the closest location that services your vehicle.