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. It could be costly.
The cost will vary depending on whether you buy the spare key from a dealer or locksmith. The cost also differs based on the type of key you need.
Dealerships
One of the primary avenues to obtain a replacement car key is through a dealer. Typically, dealers request information like the vehicle's make and model year, VIN, and year when they request a new key. The dealer may also ask for proof of ownership or proof of identity to ensure that the key is given to the correct owner. This process can be quick and cost-effective, depending on the type of keys you require, but dealership services are usually more expensive.
You can purchase a generic spare key from a hardware store, locksmith or online and program it yourself. A lot of automakers allow drivers to do this, and it's typically covered in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website. However, this process is usually slower and may be more expensive than contacting a locksmith.
If you have a traditional metal key, you can usually have it replaced by a local locksmith for a few dollars. The price will be higher if the key is a transponder or an electronic fob. It will likely run you around $50-$200 or more.
In the majority of situations, it's best to have a spare car key made before you lose your 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.
While buying a new car key may be a pain, it is definitely worth the cost in case you lose your original or get it stolen. Talk to your local locksmith or automaker before deciding on a service. You can also search for reputable key replacement providers and provide them with details about your vehicle to see whether they are able to provide you with an estimate for the service. This will allow you to avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget in check.
Locksmiths
A spare car key can be a lifesaver in the event that you ever have to be locked out of your car. Keep the spare key in a secure place, as you don't want it to be lost or stolen. A spare key can cost between $50 and $200, depending on the model and make of your car. You can obtain a replacement car key from a variety of sources, such as a dealership or auto-locksmith, as well as roadside assistance.
The best way to acquire a spare car key is at the dealership that you bought your vehicle. The dealer will have a blank key and can program it to work with your vehicle. This is the most expensive, however, it's the only way to be sure that you have a functioning key replacement in the event that you lose the original.
The price will differ, but a lot of locksmiths and hardware stores will make you a car key. A basic car key that does not include a transponder could be made for under $10. However, a key fob and smart key are more expensive.
If car spare key maker need an extra key for your vehicle, you should only use a reputable auto locksmith. They must be DBS verified and vetted, and licensed to perform tasks of this kind. They should be insured in case anything goes wrong during the duplication process.
It's costly to replace the key that was lost however it's worth it to have a spare in case you lose it or lock it inside the car. It is always safer to be prepared than to attempt to open your door open with an old coat hanger and risk damaging the car. Make a spare key for your car and store it safely. You'll be grateful that you did should you require it!
Older vehicles
The loss of a car key could be a huge inconvenience. It can result in expensive repair bills and lost work time, especially if your vehicle is not accessible. If you have a spare car key, however, you can avoid these issues completely. The possession of a spare key could also save you lots of money in the long run. How much does an extra key for the car cost? There are several factors that could affect the price such as the make and model of the vehicle as well as the type of key.
There are many kinds of keys for cars and some are more complex than others. The most popular kind of key is the standard key, which can be used to lock and unlock doors. They are simple 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. They are more expensive than conventional keys.
If you have an older vehicle, it's recommended to have a spare key made prior to losing the original. You can avoid the high cost of replacing a vehicle that is newer. If you lose your key you should replace it as soon as you can. This will ensure you are in a position to gain access to your vehicle and also prevent theft or other problems.
A spare car key is a great investment for any driver. A spare key is useful in the event that you have to replace or damage your original. The cost of a replacement key is contingent on the model and make of the vehicle. It is crucial to take these factors into consideration when selecting the right service.
In addition to the key itself, the majority of modern vehicles come with an electronic chip inside the head of the key. The chip sends signals to the car's security system that can confirm that the key is legitimate and allows drivers to unlock or start their vehicle. The chips can be extremely expensive to replace if lost or damaged and could require the help of an auto dealer or locksmith.
Newer Vehicles
For those old enough to recall, it was once quite easy to lose keys to cars 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. It's a bit more complicated nowadays. Keys in modern automobiles are infused with chips, and require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. There are also key fobs, laser cut and even switchblade keys all of which cost more than the traditional mechanical key.
Fortunately, you can still save up to 30% at Ace Hardware when you purchase your replacement keys online. You can also use their store locator tool to pinpoint the nearest location that can service your vehicle.