How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is essential to ensure peace of mind if you lose or damage your primary key. However, it can be expensive.
The cost is contingent on where you have the spare key made, whether it is at an auto dealer or through a locksmith. The cost also varies depending on the kind of key you require.
Dealerships
One of the most common methods to obtain a replacement car key is through the dealer. Typically, dealers require details such as the car's make and model year, as well as the VIN when they request a new key. In addition, the dealer might request proof of ownership and identification to ensure that the replacement key is issued to the owner who is legally entitled to it. This procedure can be swift and cost-effective depending on the type of keys, however, dealer services are generally more expensive.
Alternately, you can purchase a standard spare car key from a hardware store or locksmith and program it yourself. This is a procedure that many automakers permit drivers to do, and the instructions are usually found in the owner's guide or on the manufacturer website. This procedure can be slower and more expensive than calling a locksmith.
If you have a conventional metal key, you are able to have it replaced by an area locksmith for few dollars. If your key is an electronic fob or transponder chip, the price will be significantly higher. It is likely to cost about $50 to $200 or more.
It is recommended to make a duplicate of your car key before you lose the original. You won't get 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'd like.
While getting a new car key can be a hassle however, it's worth the expense in case you ever lose your original or have it stolen. Talk to your local automaker or locksmith before deciding on a service. You can also contact reputable key replacement companies and provide them with the details about your vehicle in order to receive a quote. This will help you avoid any unexpected expenses and keep your budget in check.
Locksmiths
If you've ever been locked out of your car, a spare key can be useful. It is crucial to keep the key in a safe place, but you do not want to lose it or lose it. 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 variety of options to obtain an alternative car key, such as the dealership, auto locksmith, and roadside assistance.
The dealership you bought your vehicle is the best place to get an extra key. The dealer will have a blank key, and can program it to work with your vehicle. This is the most expensive option, however it is the most surefire method of having a functioning key in case you lose your original key.
The price will vary, but most locksmiths and hardware stores can make you a car key. A basic car key without transponder chips can typically be made for less than $10 while a key fob, or smart key could be more costly.
If you need an extra key for your vehicle, you should only work with an auto locksmith that is reputable. They should be DBS verified and vetted, and accredited to carry out work of this type. They should also be insured which covers them in the event that something goes wrong during the process of key duplication.
Replacing a lost car key is costly however it is worth the investment to have a spare key in case you lose yours or put it in the car. It is always better to be prepared, rather than attempt to open your door open using a coat hanger and risk damaging the car. Take the time to make a spare key for your car and store it in a secure location. You'll be grateful that you did should you need it!
Older vehicles
Losing your car keys can be a huge hassle. It can result in costly repair costs and wasted time, especially if are not able to access your vehicle. If you have a spare car key however, you can avoid these issues altogether. A spare key can also save you a significant amount of money in the long term. What does an extra key for the car cost? The cost of a key will depend on a number of factors, including the model and make of the car and the type of key.
There are many kinds 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. These are easy to make and cost between $10 and $15 for each copy. Other options include key fobs, remote keys, and switchblade keys. They are more sophisticated, and include features like alarm activation and remote start. They can be more costly than the traditional keys.
It is a good thing to create a spare car key if you own an older vehicle. It will save you the expensive costs of replacing a vehicle that is newer. If you lose your keys, it's best to replace it as soon as possible. This will allow you to access your vehicle and stop theft.
A spare car key is a smart investment for any driver. Having get spare key made can be extremely beneficial in the event you lose your key, or it is damaged. The cost of a replacement key varies based on the make and model of the vehicle. It is important to take these aspects into consideration when choosing the right provider.
In addition to the key itself, most modern cars include an electronic chip in the head of the key. The chip transmits signals to a security system in the car that will verify the key and allow the driver to open or start their car. These chips are expensive to replace if lost or damaged and may require the help of an auto dealer or locksmith.
Newer Vehicles
For those of us old enough to remember, it was very easy to lose the car key and not be out many dollars. You could take the code from the owner's manual to a hardware store or locksmith and get an alternative key cut at a very affordable price. The process is a little more complicated nowadays. Newer cars have keys with chips built in, which require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. Key fobs and laser cuts, as well as switchblade keys, all of which 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 utilize their store locator tool to find the closest location that services your vehicle.