How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare key for your car is vital to have peace of mind in the event that you lose or damage your primary key. However, it can be expensive.
The cost will vary based on where you have the spare key made, whether at the dealership or through an locksmith. The cost varies also depending on the type you need.
Dealerships
One of the most popular options to get a replacement key is through a dealership. If you are requesting a replacement for your key, the dealer might request details like the car's make and model, VIN, as well as the year. Additionally, the dealer may require proof of ownership and identification to ensure that the new key is given to the owner who is legally entitled to it. Depending on the kind of key, this procedure can be fairly efficient and cost-effective, however it is crucial to keep in mind that dealership services are generally more expensive than other alternatives.
You can also purchase a generic key at a hardware shop, locksmith, or even online and program it yourself. This is something that a lot of automakers permit drivers to do, and the steps are usually found in the owner's guide or on the official website of the manufacturer. This process may be slower and more expensive than calling a locksmith.
If you have a conventional metal key, you can generally get it replaced at a local locksmith for a couple of dollars. The price will be higher if the key is a transponder or an electronic fob. Expect to spend between $50 and $200.
In the majority of instances, it is recommended to have an extra car key prior to losing your original. You won't be 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 vehicle whenever you want.
While purchasing a new key may be a pain, it is definitely worth the cost in case you lose your original or have it stolen. If you're worried about the costs of an extra car key, speak to your local locksmith or automaker before deciding on a specific service. You can also search for reliable key replacement companies and provide them with details about your vehicle to determine whether they can provide you with an estimate for the service. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget in check.
Locksmiths
A spare car key can be life-saving if you ever get locked out of your vehicle. Keep the spare key in a secure place as you do not want it to be lost or stolen. Depending on the model and make of your car, it can cost $50-$200 to have a spare key created. You can purchase a new car key from a number of sources, including a dealer or an auto-locksmith. roadside assistance.
The dealer where you bought your vehicle is the best location to purchase an extra key. The dealer will have the correct key blank and will be capable of programming it so that it works with your vehicle. This is the most expensive option however it is the most reliable method of having a functioning key in the event that you lose your original key.
Many locksmiths and hardware stores will be able to make a car key for you however the cost could differ. A basic car key that does not include a transponder could be made for under $10. However keys fobs, key fobs and smart keys are more expensive.
Whenever you are getting a spare car key be sure to use a reliable locksmith. They should be DBS verified and checked, and certified to perform tasks of this kind. They should also have insurance that covers them in the event something goes wrong during the key duplication process.
It's expensive to replace the key that was lost however it's worth it to have one in the event that you lose it, or lock it inside the car. It is always safer to be prepared rather than attempt to pry your door open with an old coat hanger and risk damaging the car. 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
The loss of a car key could be a huge hassle. It can result in expensive repair bills and a loss of time, especially if you are unable to get into your vehicle. If you have a spare car key you can avoid these issues altogether. A spare key can also save you a significant amount of dollars in the end. But what is the price an extra car key cost? The cost is influenced by many aspects, including the model and make of the vehicle and the type key.
There are several types of keys for cars, and some are more complicated than others. The most commonly used type of key is the standard key, which is used both to lock and unlock doors. They are easy to make, and usually only cost between $10 and $15 for each copy. Other options include key fobs remote keys, and switchblade keys. These are more advanced, and can have features like alarm activation and remote start. They can be more costly than traditional keys.
If you have an older vehicle, it is an ideal idea to make a spare key before losing the original one. It will save you the expensive cost of replacing a car that is more modern. If you lose your key, it is recommended to have it replaced immediately. This will ensure that you are in a position to gain access to your vehicle and avoid theft or other issues.
A spare car key is a wise investment for any driver. A spare key can be extremely useful should you lose or damage your original. The cost of a replacement key varies depending on the make and model of the car. It is essential to take these aspects into consideration when choosing the right provider.
Modern cars are equipped with an electronic chip inside the head of the keys. The chip transmits an electronic signal to the car's security system that will verify the key and allow the driver to unlock or start their car. If these chips become damaged or lost they may be costly to replace and may require the assistance of an auto locksmith or dealer.
Newer Vehicles
For those of us old enough to recall, it was once quite easy to lose keys to cars and not be out many dollars. You could take the key code from the owner's manual to the hardware store or locksmith, and get the replacement key cut for the most affordable cost. Things are a bit more complicated today. Modern cars have keys with chips in them, which 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.
Fortunately, you can still save up to 30% at Ace Hardware when you purchase the replacement keys online and use their convenient store locator tool to pinpoint the closest location that services your vehicle.