How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is essential to have peace of mind in case you lose or break your primary key. However it can be costly.
The cost is contingent on where you've got the spare key made, whether at an auto dealer or through an locksmith. The cost varies also depending on the type of key you need.
Dealerships
The dealership is one of the most common ways to obtain a replacement for a key. Typically, dealers require details such as the car's make and model, year, and VIN when requesting a replacement key. The dealer might request documents of ownership or identification 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 used, however, dealership services are typically more expensive.
You can also purchase a generic spare car key at an auto repair shop or locksmith and program it yourself. This is something that many automakers allow drivers to do, and the directions are usually found in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer website. This procedure can be more time-consuming and costly than calling a locksmith.
It is common to get the replacement of a key made of metal by a locksmith in your area for just a few dollars. The cost is more expensive if your key is a transponder or an electronic fob. It could cost you about $50 to $200 or more.
It is recommended to create a duplicate car key before you lose the original. You won't be stuck and you'll have a backup key in case of an accident. It is a small price to pay for peace of mind and the ability to drive your car whenever you'd like.
It might be difficult to obtain a new key for your vehicle however it's worth it in the event you lose your original key stolen. Consult with your local automaker or locksmith before you decide on a service. You can also search for trustworthy key replacement services and provide them with details about your vehicle to see whether they can provide you with an estimate for the service. This will allow you to avoid any unexpected expenses and keep your budget in check.
Locksmiths
A spare car key could be a lifesaver if you ever have to be locked out of your car. Keep the spare key in a safe place as you do not want it to be lost or stolen. Depending on the model and make of your vehicle it could cost you anywhere from $50 to $200 to have a spare key made. You can obtain a replacement car key from a number of sources, such as a dealership, an auto-locksmith, or roadside assistance.
The dealership you bought your vehicle is the best source of an extra key. 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 ensure that you have a working key replacement in the event you lose your original.
Many hardware stores and locksmiths are able to create a car key for you, but the price may vary. A basic car key with a transponder chip can usually be made for less than $10, while a key fob, or smart key could be more costly.
Whenever you are getting a spare car key made be sure to use a reputable locksmith. spare keys for cars must be DBS verified and vetted, and certified to perform tasks of this kind. They should also be insured which covers them in the event that something goes wrong during the process of key duplication.
It's expensive to replace the key that was lost, but it's worth it to have a spare in the event of losing it or put it in the car. It is better to be prepared, rather than risk damaging your car by trying to open the door off with a hanger. So, make the effort to get a spare car key and store it in a secure place. You'll be grateful you did if you ever need it!
Older Vehicles
The loss of a car key could be a huge hassle. It can lead to expensive repair bills and a loss of time, especially if you cannot access your vehicle. You can avoid all these problems by having an extra car key. Having a spare key can also save you a significant amount of money in the long run. What is the cost of an extra key for the car cost? There are a few variables that affect the cost, including the model and make of the vehicle and the type of key.
There are a variety of keys for cars, and some are more complicated than others. The most common is a standard key that is used to lock and unlock the doors. These are simple to make, and usually only cost $10 - $15 per copy. Other options include key fobs remote keys and switchblade keys. These are more advanced, and can have features like alarm activation and remote start. However, they are more expensive than traditional keys.
If you have an older vehicle, it is recommended to have a spare key made before losing the original one. This will allow you to avoid the high replacement costs of a newer vehicle. However, if you do lose the key, it's best to have it replaced immediately. This will ensure you are capable of accessing your car and also prevent theft or other problems.
A spare car key is a smart investment for any driver. Having a spare can be extremely useful in the event that you lose your key or it is damaged. The cost of a replacement key varies based on the model and make of the car. It is crucial to take these aspects into consideration when selecting the right service.
The majority of modern cars also have an electronic chip in the head of the keys. This chip transmits signals to the security system of the car, which can verify that the key is legitimate and allows drivers to unlock or start their vehicle. These chips can be very expensive to replace if they are lost or damaged and could require the help of a dealership or locksmith.
Newer vehicles
For those old enough to remember, it was very easy to lose the car key and not have to pay a lot of 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 the most affordable cost. It's a bit more complicated today. Newer cars have keys with chips that are built-in, and require dealer knowledge to duplicate. There are also key fobs and laser cuts as well as switchblade keys, which all cost more than mechanical keys.
Ace Hardware offers up to 30% off when you buy your replacement keys online. You can also use the store locator to find the nearest location that can service your vehicle.