How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is vital to have peace of mind in the event that you lose or damage your primary key. It can be expensive.
The cost varies depending on where you have the spare key made, whether it is at an auto dealer or through the locksmith. The cost also differs based on the kind of key you require.
Dealerships
One of the most popular options to get a replacement key is through the dealer. When you request a replacement key, the dealer might require information such as vehicle model and make, VIN, and the year. The dealer may also require documents of ownership or identification to ensure that the key is given to the rightful owner. This procedure can be swift and cost-effective, depending on the type of keys you require, but dealership services are usually more expensive.
Alternatively, you can purchase a generic spare car key at a hardware store or locksmith and program it yourself. This is something that many automakers allow drivers to do, and the directions are usually included in the owner's guide or on the official website of the manufacturer. This process may be more time-consuming and costly than calling a locksmith.
It is possible to have an old key replaced by a local locksmith at a cost of just a few dollars. If your key is an electronic fob or transponder chip, the price will be significantly higher. You can expect to pay between $50 and $200.
In the majority of cases, it is best to have a spare car key prior to losing your original. You won't be stuck and you'll have an additional key in the event of an accident. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind and the freedom to drive your car whenever you like.
While getting a new car key may be a pain but it's definitely worth it in the event that you ever lose your original one or have it stolen. If you are worried about the cost of a spare car key, consult your local locksmith or automaker before you decide on a particular service. You can also research reputable key replacement providers and provide them with details regarding your vehicle to find out if they can give you 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 can be life-saving if you ever get locked out of your car. It is important to keep the key in a safe place, however, as you don't want to lose the key or have it stolen. Depending on the model and make of your vehicle, it can cost between $50 and $200 to get an extra key made. There are a few options to obtain an extra car key, which includes the dealership, an auto locksmith, or roadside assistance.
The best method to obtain a spare car key is at the dealership where you purchased your vehicle. The dealer will have a blank key and can program it to work with your vehicle. This is the most expensive option but it's the most reliable method of having a functioning key in the event that you lose the original key.
Many locksmiths and hardware stores will be able to make keys for your car however, the cost may vary. A basic car key that does not have a transponder can be made for less than $10. However keys fobs, key fobs and smart keys are more expensive.
If spare car keys require a spare key for your vehicle, you should select a reputable auto locksmith. They should have completed a DBS check and be vetted. They must also be certified to perform this type of work. They should also have insurance that covers them in the event something goes wrong during the process of key duplication.
It's costly to replace the key that was lost but it's worthwhile to have a spare in case you lose it or keep it locked inside the car. It is always safer to be prepared rather than try to pry your door open using a coat hanger, and risk damaging your car. So, take the time to get a spare car key made and keep it in a safe location. You'll be thankful you did if you ever require it!
Older vehicles
It's a major hassle to lose your car key. It can lead to expensive repair bills and lost time, particularly if you cannot access your vehicle. If you have a spare car key, however, you can prevent these issues altogether. A spare key will save you money in the end. But how much will an extra car key cost? The cost is influenced by several aspects, including the model and make of the vehicle and the type key.
There are various kinds of keys for cars, with some more complex than others. The most common kind of key is the standard key, which is used to lock and unlock doors. These are easy to create and cost between $10 and $15 for each copy. Other alternatives include key fobs, remote keys and switchblade keys. They can be more sophisticated and include features like remote start and alarm activation. They can be more costly than the traditional keys.
If you have an older car it's a good idea to have a spare key made before losing the original one. This will help you avoid the cost of replacing it with a newer vehicle. If you lose your keys it is best to replace it as soon as possible. This will ensure that you are capable of accessing your car, and prevent theft or other issues.
A spare key for your car is a wise investment for any driver. A spare key can be very useful in the event that you have to replace or damage your original. The cost of an extra car key could differ based on the make and model of the vehicle, and it is important to consider these aspects when choosing the right service provider.
In addition to the key itself the majority of modern vehicles have an electronic chip in the head of the key. This chip emits signals to the car's security system that can confirm that the key is legitimate and allows drivers to open the door or start the vehicle. The chips can be extremely costly to replace if lost or damaged, and may require assistance from a dealership or locksmith.
Newer Vehicles
For those old enough to recall, it was once extremely easy to lose a car key and not lose a lot of money. You could simply take the code for your key from the owner's manual to a locksmith or hardware store and have a new one cut for a reasonable cost. Things are a bit more complicated in the present. Keys in modern automobiles are infused with chips and require dealer knowledge to duplicate. There are also key fobs and laser cuts, as well as switchblade keys, all of which cost more than mechanical keys.
Ace Hardware offers up to 30% off when you buy your replacement keys online. You can also use the convenient store locator to locate the nearest location that can service your vehicle.