How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare key for your car is vital to have peace of mind should you lose or damage your primary key. It can be costly.
The cost will vary based on whether you buy the spare key from a dealer or a locksmith. The cost also varies based on the type of key you require.
Dealerships
One of the primary avenues for obtaining a replacement car key is through the dealer. If you are requesting a replacement for your key, the dealer could ask for information such as vehicle make and model, VIN, and year. In addition, the dealer might request proof of ownership and identification to ensure that the new key is issued to the rightful owner. Based on the type of key, this process can be fairly efficient and cost-effective, however it is also important to keep in mind that dealership services are generally more expensive than other options.
Alternately, you can purchase a generic spare car key at the hardware store or locksmith and program it yourself. This is something that a lot of automakers permit drivers to do, and the steps are usually included in the owner's manual or on the official website of the manufacturer. However, this procedure is usually slower and may be more costly than contacting an locksmith.
It is possible to have a metal key replaced by a locksmith in your area at a cost of only a few dollars. The price is more expensive if your key is a transponder, or electronic fob. It will likely run you around $50-$200 or more.
In most cases, it is best to have an extra car key prior to losing your original. This way you won't end up stranded and you will have a backup in the event in the event of an emergency. It's a small price to pay to have peace of mind and the freedom to drive your car whenever you want.
While getting a new car key may be a pain however, it's worth the expense in case you lose your original or have it stolen. Contact your local locksmith or automaker before deciding on a service. You can also contact reputable key replacement companies and provide them with details about your vehicle to receive a price. This will allow you to avoid any unexpected expenses and keep your budget in check.
Locksmiths
If you've ever been locked out of your vehicle, a spare key can help. Keep the spare key in a safe place as you do not want it to get lost or stolen. Depending on the make and model of your car it could cost you anywhere from $50 to $200 to have a spare key made. There are a variety of options to obtain an extra car key, such as the dealership, an auto locksmith, or roadside assistance.
The dealer where you bought your car is the best place to get a spare key. The dealer will have a blank key and can 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 functioning replacement key in the event that you lose the original.
Many hardware stores and locksmiths will be able to make keys for your car however, the cost may 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.
If you need an extra key for your car, you should only work with an auto locksmith who is reliable. They should be DBS verified and vetted, and certified to perform the work. They should also be insured which covers them in the event that something goes wrong during the process of key duplication.
Replacing spare keys lost car key can be costly however it is worth the investment to have a spare key in case you lose yours or keep it locked in the car. It is better to be prepared, rather than risking damaging your car by trying to open the door off with hangers. Take the time to make an extra key for your vehicle and store it safely. You'll be happy that you did it in the event that you need it one day!
Older vehicles
It's a major inconvenience to lose a vehicle key. This could result in costly repair costs and a loss of time, especially if your vehicle isn't accessible. If you have an extra car key you can avoid these issues completely. A spare key will also save you money in the end. But how much will an extra car key cost? There are several factors that can influence the price that can affect the price, such as the model and make of the car and the kind of key.
There are a variety of keys for cars, and some are more intricate than others. The most commonly used is a standard key that can be used to lock and unlock doors. They are simple to make and cost between $10 and $15 for each copy. Other options include key fobs, remote keys, and switchblade keys. They are more sophisticated, and include features like alarm activation and remote start. They may cost more than the traditional keys.
It is a good thing to create a spare car key if you have an older vehicle. You will avoid the costly costs of replacing a vehicle that is newer. However, if you do lose the key, it is recommended to replace it immediately. This will ensure that you are able to access your car and avoid theft or other issues.
A spare key for your car is a smart investment for any driver. A spare key is useful should you have to replace or damage your original. The cost of a spare car key can differ based on the make and model of the vehicle. Hence, it is crucial to take into consideration these factors when choosing the right service provider.
The majority of modern cars also have an electronic chip embedded inside the head of the keys. This chip sends signals to a security system of the vehicle that can verify the key and allow the driver to open or start their vehicle. If the chips are damaged or destroyed, they can be expensive to replace and could require the assistance of an expert locksmith or a dealership.
Newer vehicles
For those old enough to remember, it was quite easy to lose keys to cars and not lose many dollars. You could take the code from the owner's manual to the local hardware store or locksmith, and get an alternative key cut at the most affordable cost. Things are a bit more complicated in the present. Keys in newer cars are embedded with chips, and they require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. Then there are keys fobs, laser cuts, and even switchblade keys - all of which cost a lot more than the traditional mechanical key.
However, you can save up to 30 percent at Ace Hardware when you purchase the replacement keys online and utilize their store locator tool to pinpoint the nearest location to service your vehicle.