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. However, it can be expensive.
The cost will differ based on whether you purchase the spare key from a dealer or a locksmith. The cost varies also depending on the type of key you require.
Dealerships
The dealership is among the most common ways to get a replacement key. Typically, the dealer will require information such as the vehicle's make and model year, as well as the VIN when requesting a new key. The dealer might request proof of ownership or identification to make sure that the key is issued to the correct owner. Based on the type of key, this process can be fairly efficient and cost-effective, however it is crucial to remember that dealership services tend to be more expensive than other options.
You can also purchase a generic key at a hardware store locksmith or online and program it yourself. Most automakers permit drivers to do this, and it is usually explained in the owner's manual or on the website of the manufacturer. However, this procedure is generally slower and can be more expensive than contacting the locksmith.
You can usually get a metal key replaced by a locksmith in your area for a couple of dollars. The price will be higher if your key is a transponder or an electronic fob. It could cost you between $50 and $200 or more.
In most situations, it's best to have a spare car key prior to losing your original. This way you won't be in a bind and you'll have a backup in the event of an emergency. It's a small cost to be paid for peace of mind and the freedom to drive the car whenever you'd like.
While purchasing a new key isn't easy but it's definitely worth it in the event that you lose your original key or get it stolen. Talk to your local automaker or locksmith before you decide on a service. You can also contact reliable key replacement companies and provide them with details regarding your vehicle to receive a price. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget under control.
Locksmiths
A spare car key can be life-saving if you ever get locked out of your car. Keep the spare key in a safe location as you don't want it to get lost or stolen. A spare key will cost between $50 and $200 based on the model and brand of your car. You can get a new car key from a variety of sources, such as a dealership, an auto-locksmith, or roadside assistance.
The dealership you bought your car is the best place to get an extra key. The dealer will have a blank key and can program it to work with your car. This is the most expensive option, however it is the most secure method of having a functioning key in case you lose your original key.
Many locksmiths and hardware stores will be able to make a car key for you however, the cost may differ. A basic car key that doesn't have a transponder can be made for less than $10. However keys with fobs and smart keys are more expensive.
Whenever you are getting a spare car key made ensure that you choose a reliable locksmith. They should pass a DBS check, be vetted, and be accredited to do this type of work. They should also carry insurance which covers them in the event that something goes wrong during the key duplication process.
It can be expensive to replace the key that was lost but it's worthwhile to have a spare in the event that you lose it, or keep it locked inside the car. It is always safer to be prepared rather than try to pry your door open using a coat hanger and risk damaging the car. Take the time to make an extra key for your car and keep it in a safe place. You'll be glad that you did should you require it!
Older Vehicles
The loss of a car key could be a major inconvenience. It can result in costly repair bills and a loss of time, especially if are not able to access your vehicle. You can avoid all of these issues if you own an spare car key. A spare key can save you money in the end. What is the cost of an extra key for the car cost? There are a few variables that could affect the price, including the model and make of the vehicle as well as the type of key.
There are several types of keys for cars, and some are more complicated than others. The most common is a standard key that can be used to lock and unlock doors. These are easy to create and cost between $10 and $15 for each copy. Other alternatives include key fobs, remote keys, and switchblade keys. These can be more advanced and include features such as remote start and alarm activation. However, they can be more expensive than traditional keys.
If you own an older car, it's a good idea to have a spare key created before you lose the original key. You can avoid the high costs of replacing a vehicle that is more modern. If you lose your key, it's best to have it replaced immediately. This will allow you to gain access to your vehicle and prevent theft.
A spare car key is a smart investment for any driver. A spare key can be very useful in the event that you have to replace or damage your original. The cost of a replacement car key varies depending on the model and make of the vehicle. It is essential to take these factors into consideration when selecting the right provider.
In addition to the key itself, the majority of modern cars come with an electronic chip inside the head of the key. This chip transmits signals to the car's security system which confirms that the key is legitimate and permits drivers to unlock or start their vehicle. These chips can be very expensive to replace if they are lost or damaged and could require the help of locksmiths or dealers.
Newer vehicles
For those old enough to recall, it was once quite easy to lose the car key and not have to pay many dollars. You could take the code from the owner's manual to the local hardware store or locksmith and have the replacement key cut for the most affordable cost. Today things are more complicated. Keys in the latest cars are embedded with chips, and require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. Then there are key fobs, laser cuts and even switchblade keys all of which cost a lot more than a traditional mechanical key.
However, spare keys near me can save up to 30 percent at Ace Hardware when you purchase the replacement keys online and use their store locator tool to pinpoint the closest location that services your vehicle.