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 expensive.
The cost will vary based on where you have the spare key made, whether it is at a dealership or through an locksmith. The cost also differs based on the type of key you need.
Dealerships
The dealership is among the most common ways to obtain a replacement for a key. If you are requesting a replacement for your key, the dealer might request details such as the vehicle's model and make, VIN, and year. The dealer might request documents of ownership or proof of identity to ensure that the key is issued to its rightful owner. This procedure can be swift and cost-effective based on the type of keys used, but dealership services are usually more expensive.
You can also purchase a generic spare car key at the hardware store or locksmith and program it yourself. spare car keys will allow drivers to do this, and it is typically covered in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website. This process 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. The price is higher if the key is a transponder, or electronic fob. Expect to pay between $50 and $200.
In most cases, it is best to have a spare car key made prior to losing your original. This way you won't end up in a bind and you'll have a backup in the event in the event of an emergency. It's a small cost to be paid for peace of mind and the freedom to drive the car whenever you want.
It might be difficult to find an additional key for your vehicle but it's worth it in the event that you lose the original key stolen. Consult with your local automaker or locksmith before you decide on a service. You can also contact reputable key replacement companies and provide them with the details about your vehicle to get a quote. This can help you avoid unexpected costs and keep your budget in check.
Locksmiths
A spare car key can be a lifesaver in the event that you ever find yourself locked out of your car. It is essential to keep the key in a secure place, however, as you do not want to lose the key or have it stolen. Depending on the model and make of your car it could cost you anywhere from $50-$200 to have a spare key created. There are a variety of ways to obtain an extra car key, which includes the dealership, an auto locksmith, and roadside assistance.
The best way to get an extra car key is to go to the dealership that you bought your car. The dealer will have the right key blank and will be capable of programming it so that it works with your vehicle. This is the most expensive option, but it is the only way to be sure that you have a working key replacement in the event that you lose the original.
The cost can vary, but most locksmiths and hardware stores can create an auto key. A basic car key with transponder chips can typically be made for less than $10 while a key fob, or smart key can be much more costly.
When you need a spare key for your vehicle, you should only use an auto locksmith who is reliable. They must be DBS verified and checked, and certified to perform tasks of this kind. They should also have insurance that covers them in the event something goes wrong during the key duplication process.
Replacing a lost car key could be expensive however it is worth it to have a spare in the event that you lose yours, or put it in the car. It is better to be prepared, rather than risk damaging your car by trying to pry the door open with hangers. Make a spare key for your car and store it in a safe place. You'll be glad you did it if you ever require it!
Older Vehicles
Losing your car keys can be a huge inconvenience. This could result in costly repair costs and lost work time, particularly if your vehicle isn't able to be accessed. If you have a spare car key, you can avoid these issues completely. A spare key will save you money in the end. How much does an extra key for a car cost? The price is influenced by many aspects, including the model and make of the vehicle and the type key.
There are a variety of car keys, some more intricate than others. The most popular is a standard key that is used to lock and unlock the doors. They are simple to create and generally cost between $10 and $15 per copy. Other alternatives include key fobs, remote keys, and switchblade keys. These are more sophisticated and include features like alarm activation and remote start. They can be more costly than traditional keys.
If you have an older vehicle it is recommended to have a spare key created before you lose the original key. You can avoid the high cost of replacing a vehicle that is newer. If you lose your keys it is best to replace it as soon as you can. This will ensure you are in a position to gain access to your vehicle and also prevent theft or other problems.
A spare car key is a wise investment for any driver. Having a spare can be very useful in the event that you lose your key, or it is damaged. The cost of a spare car key can differ depending on the brand and model of the vehicle. Hence, it is important to consider these aspects when selecting a service provider.
Modern cars are equipped with an electronic chip embedded in the head of the keys. This chip emits a signal to the car's security system that can confirm that the key is legitimate and permits drivers to unlock or start their vehicle. If these chips are damaged or lost they may be costly to replace and may require the assistance of a locksmith or dealership.
Newer Vehicles
For those old enough to remember, it was very easy to lose the car key and not lose a lot of money. You could take the code from the owner's manual to the local hardware store or locksmith, and get the replacement key cut for the most affordable cost. Nowadays, things are a little more complicated. Modern cars have keys with chips that are built-in, and require the knowledge of a dealer to duplicate. Then there are key fobs, laser cut and even switchblade keys all of which cost more than a 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 the nearest location that services your vehicle.