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 will vary depending on whether you get the spare key from a retailer or a locksmith. The cost also varies based on the type you need.
Dealerships
The dealership is among the most commonly used methods to get a replacement key. Typically, the dealer will request details such as the car's model and make year, as well as the VIN when requesting a replacement key. Additionally, the dealer could request documents of ownership and identification to ensure that the new key is given to the rightful owner. This procedure can be swift and cost-effective depending on the type of keys, but dealership services are usually more expensive.
You can purchase a generic spare key at a hardware store locksmith, or online and program it yourself. This is something that a lot of automakers allow drivers to do, and the steps are usually found in the owner's manual or on the official website of the manufacturer. This procedure can be more time-consuming and costly than calling a locksmith.
If you own a traditional metal key, you can generally replace it at the local locksmith for a couple of dollars. If your key is an electronic fob or transponder chip, however, the cost will be substantially more expensive. Expect to spend between $50 and $200.
In most instances, it is recommended to have an extra car key before you lose your original. So, you won't be left stranded and you will have a backup in the event in the event of an emergency. It is a small price to pay for peace of mind and the ability to drive your car whenever you'd like.
It can be a challenge to get an additional key for your car, but it's worth it if you lose your original key stolen. Talk to your local locksmith or automaker before deciding on a solution. You can also contact reputable key replacement companies and provide them with details about your vehicle in order to receive a quote. This will help you avoid any unexpected expenses and keep your budget in the right place.
Locksmiths
If you've ever been locked out of your vehicle, a spare key may come in handy. It is important to keep the key in a secure place, but you don't want to lose it or have it stolen. Depending on the model and make of your vehicle it can cost anywhere from $50-$200 to have an extra key made. You can purchase a new car key from a number of sources, including a dealership, an auto-locksmith, or roadside assistance.
The best way to acquire a spare car key is to go to the dealership that you bought your car. The dealer will have a blank key, and can program it to work with your car. This is the most expensive option but it is the most surefire method to ensure you have a functioning key in case you lose the original key.
Many locksmiths and hardware stores are able to create a car key for you, but the price may vary. A basic car key that does not include a transponder could be made for less than $10. However keys with fobs and smart key are more expensive.
When make a spare key need an extra key for your car, only work with an auto locksmith that is reputable. They must be DBS verified and checked, and accredited to carry out tasks of this kind. They should be covered in the event of anything going wrong during the duplication process.
Replacing a lost car key is costly, but it is worth it to have a spare key in case you lose it or lock it in the car. It is better to be prepared, rather than risking damaging your car by trying to open the door open using a hanger. So, take the time to get a spare car key made and keep it in a safe location. You'll be glad you did it if you need it one day!
Older cars
It's a major inconvenience to lose a vehicle key. It can result in expensive repair bills and lost time, particularly if you are not able to access your vehicle. You can avoid all of these problems if you have an spare car key. The possession of a spare key could also save you a lot of money in the long run. What does a spare key for the car cost? The cost is influenced by several factors, such as the model and make of the vehicle and the type key.
There are a variety of car keys, some more complex than others. The most common is a standard key that is used to lock and unlock doors. They are simple to create and cost between $10 and $15 per copy. Other options include key fobs, remote keys, and switchblade keys. They are more sophisticated, and include features like alarm activation and remote start. However, they may be more expensive than conventional keys.
It's a good idea to create an extra car key in case you own an older car. This will allow you to avoid the high replacement costs of a newer vehicle. However, if you lose your key, it is best to have it replaced as soon as possible. This will ensure that you are able to access your car and also prevent theft or other issues.
A spare car key is an excellent investment for any driver. Having a spare can be extremely beneficial in the event that you lose your key or it is damaged. The cost of a replacement car key varies based on the make and model of the vehicle. It is important to take these factors into consideration when choosing the best service.
The majority of modern cars also have an electronic chip that is embedded in the head of the keys. The chip sends a signal to the security system of the car which confirms that the key is legitimate and permits drivers to unlock or start their vehicle. These chips are costly to replace if damaged or lost and may require assistance from a dealership or locksmith.
Newer Vehicles
For those old enough to recall, it was once quite easy to lose the car key and not have to pay much money. You could take the key code from the owner's manual to the hardware store or locksmith and have the replacement key cut for a very affordable price. It's a bit more complicated in the present. Keys in newer cars are embedded with chips and require dealer knowledge to duplicate. Then there are key fobs, laser cuts and even switchblade keys - all of which cost more than the traditional mechanical key.
Ace Hardware offers up to 30% off when you buy your replacement keys on the internet. You can also use the store locator to find a location near you that services your vehicle.