How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
Having a spare car key is essential to ensure your safety in case you lose or break your primary key. However it can be costly.
The cost varies depending on where you have the spare key made, whether at the dealership or through a locksmith. The cost also differs based on the type of key you need.
Dealerships
The dealership is among the most popular ways to obtain a replacement for a key. Typically, the dealer will require information such as the vehicle's make and model year, as well as the VIN when they request a new key. The dealer might also ask for documents of ownership or identification to make sure that the key is given to the rightful owner. Depending on the kind of key, this process can be fairly quick and cost-effective, but it is important to keep in mind that dealer services tend to be more expensive than other alternatives.
You can also purchase a generic key from a hardware store, locksmith or online and program it yourself. Most automakers permit drivers to do this, and it is typically covered in the owner's manual or on the website of the manufacturer. This procedure can be slower and more expensive than calling a locksmith.
If you own a traditional metal key, you can generally have it replaced by a local locksmith for a few dollars. The price will be higher if your key is a transponder, or electronic fob. You can expect to pay between $50 and $200.
In most situations, it's best to have a spare car key made before you lose the original. You won't be stuck and you'll have an additional key in the event of an accident. It is a small price to pay for peace of mind and the ability to drive your car whenever you like.
It might be difficult to obtain a new key for your car but it's worth it in the event that you lose or get the original key stolen. If you're worried about the expense of a spare car key, talk to your local locksmith or automaker before you decide on a specific service. You can also contact reliable key replacement firms and provide them with the details regarding your vehicle to receive a quote. This will allow you to avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget in check.
Locksmiths
If you've ever been locked out of your vehicle, a spare key can come in handy. Keep the spare key in a secure place, as you don't want it to get lost or stolen. A spare key will cost between $50 and $200, depending on the model and brand of your vehicle. You can purchase a new car key from a number of sources, including a dealer, an auto-locksmith, or roadside assistance.
The best way to acquire a spare car key is at the dealership where you bought your vehicle. 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 way to have a working key in case you lose your original one.
Many hardware stores and locksmiths are able to create keys for your car however the cost could differ. A basic car key without transponder chips will typically be made for less than $10, while a key fob, or smart key could be more costly.
Whenever you are getting a spare car key made, make sure you use a reputable locksmith. They must be DBS verified and vetted, and certified to perform work of this type. They should be covered in the event of anything going wrong during the duplication process.
It's expensive to replace the key that was lost but it's worthwhile to have one in the event that you lose it, or put it in the car. make a spare car key near me is always better to be prepared than to attempt to pry your door open using a coat hanger, and risk damaging your car. Therefore, make sure to have a spare car key made and keep it in a safe location. You'll be happy that you did it in the event that you require it in the future!
Older cars
Losing your car keys can be a huge inconvenience. It can result in expensive repair costs and a loss of time, particularly if your vehicle isn't accessible. If you have an extra car key however, you can avoid these issues altogether. A spare key can also save you lots of money in the long term. What is the cost of a spare key for a car cost? There are several factors that could affect the price such as the model and make of the vehicle and the kind of key.
There are a variety of car keys, some more complex than others. The most commonly used is a traditional key that can be used to lock and unlock doors. These keys are simple to create and cost between $10 and $15 for each copy. Other options include key fobs remote keys and switchblade keys. These can be more advanced and include features such as alarm activation and remote start. However, they are more expensive than traditional keys.
If you own an older vehicle, it's recommended to have a spare key created before losing the original one. You will avoid the costly costs of replacing a vehicle that is newer. If you do lose your key, it is recommended to replace it as soon as you can. This will ensure you are able to access your car and avoid theft or other problems.
A spare key for your car is a wise investment for any driver. Having a spare can be very useful in the event that you lose your key or if it gets damaged. The cost of a spare car key can differ based on the make and model of the vehicle, so it is important to consider these factors when choosing a service provider.
Most modern cars also have an electronic chip embedded in the head of the keys. The chip transmits signals to a security system in the car which can verify the keys and allow drivers to unlock or start their vehicle. These chips are costly to replace if lost or damaged, and may require assistance from an auto dealer or locksmith.
Newer vehicles
For those of us old enough to remember, it was extremely easy to lose the car key and not be out a lot of money. You could take the code from the owner’s manual to the local hardware store or locksmith and have an alternative key cut at a very affordable price. Today, things are a little more complicated. The latest cars have keys that have 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, you can save up to 30 percent at Ace Hardware when you purchase your replacement keys online. You can also use their convenient store locator tool to locate the closest location that services your vehicle.