How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare key for your car is essential to ensure peace of mind should you lose or damage your primary key. However, it can be expensive.
The cost will vary based on whether you get the spare key from a retailer or a locksmith. The cost also differs based on the kind of key you require.
Dealerships
One of the primary avenues to obtain a replacement car key is through a dealer. If you are requesting a replacement for your key, the dealer may require details like the car's model and make, VIN, and year. Additionally, the dealer may request documents of ownership and identification to ensure that the replacement key is given to the owner who is legally entitled to it. Based on the type of key, this process can be relatively quick and cost-effective, but it is important to remember that dealership services tend to be more expensive than other options.
You can also buy a generic spare car key from an auto repair shop or locksmith and program it yourself. Many automakers will allow drivers to do this, and it is usually explained in the owner's manual or on the website of the manufacturer. This procedure can be more time-consuming and costly than calling a locksmith.
It is possible to have an old key replaced by a locksmith in your area at a cost of a couple of dollars. If your key is an electronic fob or transponder chip, however the price will be significantly more expensive. It could cost you around $50-$200 or more.
In the majority of instances, it is recommended to have a spare car key before you lose your original. You won't be stuck, and you'll have an extra key in the event of an accident. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind and the ability to drive your car at any time you want.
While buying a new car key may be a pain however, it's worth it in the event that you ever lose your original or have it stolen. If you are worried about the cost of having a spare car key consult your local locksmith or automaker prior to deciding on a specific service. You can also reach out to reputable key replacement companies and provide them with the details regarding your vehicle to get a quote. This will allow you to avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget in check.
Locksmiths
A spare car key can be a lifesaver if you ever have to be locked out of your vehicle. It is crucial to keep the key in a secure place, however, as you do not want to lose it or have it stolen. Depending on the model and make of your car, it can cost $50 to $200 to have a spare key created. You can obtain a replacement car key from a number of sources, such as a dealership or auto-locksmith, as well as roadside assistance.
The dealership where you purchased your vehicle 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 but it is the most secure method to ensure you have a functioning key in the event that you lose your original one.
The cost can differ, but a lot of hardware stores and locksmiths can make you a car key. A basic car key without a transponder chip can usually be made for less than $10 while a key fob or smart key may be more costly.
Whenever you are getting a spare car key made, make sure you use a trustworthy locksmith. They should have a DBS check, be vetted, and be licensed to perform this kind of work. They should be insured in the event of anything going wrong during the process of duplication.
Replacing a lost key for your car could be expensive however it's worth the investment to have a spare key in the event that you lose yours, or keep it locked in the car. It is always better to be prepared rather than risking damaging your vehicle by trying to pry the door off with hangers. So, take the time to have a spare car key made and store it in a secure place. You'll be glad that you did it if you require it in the future!
Older vehicles
It can be a huge inconvenience to lose a vehicle key. It can result in costly repair bills and lost time, particularly if you are unable to get into your vehicle. You can avoid all of these issues if you own an additional car key. A spare key can save you money in the end. What does an extra key for the car cost? The price is influenced by many factors, including the model and make of the vehicle and the type of key.
There are several types of keys for cars and some are more complex than others. The most commonly used is a traditional key that is used to lock and unlock doors. These are simple to make, and usually only cost $10 - $15 per copy. Other options include switchblade keys, key fobs and remote keys. They can be more sophisticated and include features like alarm activation and remote start. They may cost more than traditional keys.
If you have an older vehicle, it is recommended to have a spare key created prior to losing the original. It will save you the expensive cost of replacing a vehicle that is more modern. If you lose your key it is best to replace it as soon as possible. This will ensure that you're in a position to gain access to your vehicle and also prevent theft or other issues.
A spare car key is a great investment for any driver. A spare key is useful if you have to replace or damage your original. The cost of a replacement car key is contingent on the make and model of the car. It is crucial to take these aspects into consideration when selecting the best service.
In addition to the key itself the majority of modern cars include an electronic chip in the head of the key. This chip sends signals to a security system in the car which can verify the keys and permit drivers to unlock or start their car. These chips can be very costly to replace if lost or damaged, and may require the help of a dealership or locksmith.
Newer Vehicles
For those old enough to remember, it was extremely easy to lose keys to cars and not have to pay a lot of money. You could just take the key's code from the owner's manual to a locksmith or hardware store to have a new one cut for a reasonable cost. It's a bit more complicated in the present. Keys in newer cars are equipped with chips and require dealer knowledge to duplicate. Key fobs and laser cuts, as well as switchblade keys, which all cost more than mechanical keys.
However, you can save up to 30 percent at Ace Hardware when you purchase your replacement keys online. You can also utilize their store locator tool to pinpoint the nearest location to service your vehicle.