How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
The possession of a spare car key is vital for peace of mind in the event that you lose or break your primary key. However, it can be expensive.
The cost will vary depending on whether you purchase the spare key from a dealer or locksmith. The cost also varies depending on the kind of key you require.
Dealerships
One of the primary avenues to get a replacement key is through a dealer. When you request a replacement key, the dealer might request details such as the vehicle's model and make, VIN, and the year. Additionally, the dealer may require documents of ownership and identification to ensure that the replacement key is given to the correct owner. This process can be quick and cost-effective based on the type of keys, but dealership services are usually more expensive.
You can also buy a generic spare car key at the hardware store or locksmith and program it yourself. Many automakers will allow drivers to do this, and it is usually explained in the owner's manual or on the website of the manufacturer. This process may be more time-consuming and costly than calling a locksmith.
You can usually get the replacement of a key made of metal by a locksmith in your area for a few dollars. If your key is an electronic fob or transponder chip, however the price is significantly more expensive. Expect to spend between $50 and $200.
It is generally recommended to create a duplicate car key before losing the original. That way you won't end up in a bind and you'll have a backup in the event in an emergency. It's a small price to be paid for peace of mind, and the freedom to drive your car whenever you want.
While purchasing a new key may be a pain, it is definitely worth it in the event that you ever lose your original one or have it stolen. Talk to your local locksmith or automaker before deciding on a solution. You can also contact reliable key replacement companies and provide them with the details about your vehicle in order to receive a price. This will allow you to avoid any unexpected expenses and keep your budget under control.
Locksmiths
If you've ever had to get locked out of your vehicle A spare key could be useful. It is important to keep the key in a secure place, however, as you don't want to lose it or have it stolen. Depending on the make and model of your car it could cost you anywhere from between $50 and $200 to get a spare key made. There are a few ways to obtain a replacement car key, such as the dealership, auto locksmith, or roadside assistance.
The dealer where you bought your vehicle is the best location to purchase an extra key. The dealer will have the appropriate key blank and will be able to program it to work with your vehicle. This is the most expensive option, however it is the most surefire method to ensure you have a functioning key in the event that you lose your original key.
Many locksmiths and hardware stores can make keys for your car however, the cost may vary. A basic car key without transponder chips can typically be made for less than $10 while a key fob or smart key can be much more expensive.
When you need an extra key for your vehicle, you should select a reputable auto locksmith. They must pass an DBS check and be vetted. They must also be certified to perform this kind of work. They should be insured in the event that something goes wrong during the process of duplication.
Replacing a lost car key is costly however it is worth it to have a spare in case you lose it or lock it in your car. It is always better to be prepared, rather than attempt to pry your door open using a coat hanger, and risk damaging your car. Take the time to make an extra key for your car and store it in a secure location. You'll be thankful that you did should you need it!
Older vehicles
It's a major inconvenience to lose a vehicle key. It can result in expensive repair costs and lost work time, especially if your vehicle isn't able to be accessed. If you have a spare car key, however, you can prevent these problems altogether. Having a spare key can also save you a significant amount of money in the long term. How much does an extra key for the car cost? There are several factors that affect the cost such as the make and model of the vehicle as well as the kind of key.
There are several types of keys for cars, and some are more complicated than others. The most commonly used is a traditional key that can be used to lock and unlock the doors. They are simple to create, and usually only cost between $10 and $15 for each copy. Other alternatives include switchblade keys, key fobs and remote keys. These can be more advanced and include features like alarm activation and remote start. However, they are more expensive than traditional keys.
If you own an older car it's recommended to have a spare key created prior to losing the original. This will help you avoid the high replacement costs of the latest model. However, if you lose your key, it's best to have it replaced as soon as possible. This will ensure you are able to access your car and also prevent theft or other issues.
A spare key for your car is a wise investment for any driver. A spare key is useful should you lose or damage the original. The cost of an extra car key could differ depending on the brand and model of the vehicle, and it is essential to consider these aspects when selecting a service provider.
Modern cars are equipped with an electronic chip in the head of keys. The chip sends a signal to the security system of the car that can confirm that the key is genuine and allows the driver to unlock or start the vehicle. If these chips are damaged or lost they may be costly to replace and may require the assistance of an expert locksmith or a dealership.
Newer Vehicles
For those of us old enough to recall, it was once very easy to lose keys to cars and not lose a lot of money. You could take the key code from the owner's manual to a hardware store or locksmith and have a replacement key cut at the most affordable cost. Today things are more complicated. Modern cars have keys with chips that are built-in, and require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. There are also key fobs and laser cuts as well as switchblade keys, all of which cost more than a mechanical key.
However, make spare car key near me can save up to 30% at Ace Hardware when you purchase your key replacements online and utilize their store locator tool to find the closest location that services your vehicle.