How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is essential to ensure peace of mind should you lose or damage your primary key. It can be expensive.
The cost will vary based on where you've got the spare key made, whether it is at a dealership or through a locksmith. The cost varies also depending on the type of key you need.
Dealerships
One of the most common methods to obtain a replacement car key is through a dealer. Typically, the dealer will request details such as the car's model and make year, VIN, and year when they request a new key. Additionally, the dealer could request evidence of ownership and proof of identity to ensure that the replacement key is issued to the owner who is legally entitled to it. Depending on the kind of key, this procedure can be fairly quick and cost-effective, but it is also important to keep in mind that dealer services are generally more expensive than other options.
You can also purchase a generic spare key at a hardware shop, locksmith, or online and program it yourself. This is a procedure that many automakers permit drivers to do, and the steps are usually in the owner's manual or on the website of the manufacturer. However, this procedure is usually slower and may be more expensive than calling a locksmith.
It is possible to have an old key replaced by a locksmith in your area for only a couple of dollars. If your key is an electronic fob or transponder chip, the price is substantially higher. It could cost you about $50 to $200 or more.
In most instances, it is recommended to have a spare car key made before you lose the original. You won't be stuck and you'll have a backup key in case of an accident. It's a small price to be paid to have peace of mind and the freedom to drive your vehicle whenever you want.
It may be difficult to get a new key for your vehicle however it's worth it in the event that you lose or have your original key stolen. If you're worried about the expense of an extra car key, speak to your local locksmith or automaker before you decide on a specific service. You can also search for reputable key replacement providers and send them a list of details regarding your vehicle to find out whether they can provide you with a quote for the service. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget under control.
Locksmiths
If you've ever been locked out of your car, a spare key can come in handy. Keep the spare key in a secure place as you do not want it to get lost or stolen. Depending on the make and model of your car, it can cost $50 to $200 to have an extra key made. There are several options to obtain a replacement car key, including the dealership, an auto locksmith, and roadside assistance.
The best method to obtain an extra car key is to visit the dealership where you purchased your car. The dealer will have the right key blank and will be able to program it to work with your vehicle. This is the most expensive option, however, it's the only way to ensure that you have a working key replacement in the event that you lose the original.
Many hardware stores and locksmiths are able to create a car key for you however, the cost may vary. A basic car key that doesn't include a transponder could be made for less than $10. However keys fobs, key fobs and smart keys are more expensive.
Whenever you are getting a spare car key ensure that you choose a reputable locksmith. They should pass a DBS check, be vetted, and be licensed to perform this type of work. They should also have insurance that covers them in case something goes wrong during the process of key duplication.
It's expensive to replace keys that are lost however it's worth it to have a spare in case you lose it or keep it locked inside the car. It is always better to be prepared rather than try to pry your door open using an old coat hanger and risk damaging the car. Therefore, make sure to get a spare car key made and keep it in a safe place. You'll be glad you did it if you ever require it!
Older vehicles
It can be a major inconvenience to lose a car key. It can lead to expensive repair bills and lost time, especially if you cannot access your vehicle. If you have a spare car key you can avoid these issues altogether. A spare key can also save you lots of dollars in the end. But how much does an extra car key cost? There are several factors that could affect the price that can affect the price, such as the make and model of the car and the type of key.
There are many kinds of keys for cars and some are more complicated than others. The most popular type of key is the standard key, which can be used both to lock and unlock doors. They are simple to create and typically cost $10 - $15 per copy. Other alternatives include key fobs, remote keys, and switchblade keys. These are more advanced, and can have features like alarm activation and remote start. They may cost more than traditional keys.
If you have an older vehicle, it is a good idea to make a spare key before losing the original one. You can avoid the high cost of replacing a car that is more modern. If you lose your key, it's best to replace it as soon as you can. spare car key replacement cost will allow you access to your vehicle and avoid theft.
A spare key for your car is a smart investment for any driver. A spare key can be very useful in the event you lose your key or it is damaged. The cost of the spare car key may vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, so it is crucial to take into consideration these factors when choosing the right service provider.
Most modern cars also have an electronic chip embedded inside the head of the keys. This chip transmits signals to the car's security system that can confirm that the key is valid and allows the driver to open the door or start the vehicle. If these chips are damaged or destroyed, they can be expensive to replace and could require the assistance of an auto locksmith or dealer.
Newer Vehicles
For those of us old enough to recall, it was once very easy to lose the car key and not lose a lot of money. You could just take the key code from the owner's manual to a hardware or locksmith store to have a new one cut for a reasonable cost. Things are a bit more complicated today. Keys in modern cars are embedded with chips and require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. Key fobs and laser cuts, as well switchblade keys, which all cost more than a mechanical key.
Fortunately, you can still save up to 30% at Ace Hardware when you purchase your key replacements online and use their convenient store locator tool to pinpoint the nearest location that can service your vehicle.