How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare key for your car is crucial to ensure peace of mind if you lose or damage your primary key. It can be expensive.
The cost will differ based on whether you buy the spare key from a dealer or locksmith. The cost also varies depending on the type of key you need.
Dealerships
One of the most common methods to get a replacement key is through a dealer. When you request a replacement key, the dealer might ask for information such as vehicle model and make, VIN, and the year. The dealer might also ask for documents of ownership or proof of identity to ensure that the key is issued to the correct owner. This process can be quick and cost-effective, depending on the type of keys you require, however, dealer services are generally more expensive.
You can purchase a generic spare key at a hardware store locksmith or online and program it yourself. A lot of automakers allow drivers to do this, and it's typically described in the owner's manual or on the website of the manufacturer. This process may be more time-consuming and costly than calling a locksmith.
You can usually get the replacement of a key made of metal by a locksmith local to you at a cost of just a few dollars. The price will be more expensive if your key is a transponder, or electronic fob. It will likely run you between $50 and $200 or more.
It is generally recommended to create a duplicate car key before you lose the original. So you won't end up stranded and you will have a backup in case in an emergency. It's a small cost to be paid for peace of mind, and the freedom to drive your vehicle whenever you'd like.
While getting a new car key can be a hassle, it is definitely worth the cost in case you lose your original or get it stolen. Talk to your local automaker or locksmith before deciding on a service. You can also contact reputable key replacement companies and provide them with details regarding your vehicle to get a quote. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget in check.
Locksmiths
If you've ever been locked out of your car, a spare key may help. Keep the spare key in a safe location as you don't want it to be lost or stolen. Depending on the model and make of your car it can cost 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 dealer where you bought your vehicle is the ideal 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 reliable method to ensure you have a functioning key in case you lose your original one.
The cost will vary, but most locksmiths and hardware stores will make you car keys. A basic car key with a transponder chip can usually be made for less than $10, while a key fob or smart key can be much more expensive.
If you require a spare key for your vehicle, you should only use an auto locksmith who is reliable. They should be DBS verified and checked, and licensed to perform tasks of this kind. They should be insured in the event of anything going wrong during the duplication process.
Replacing a lost key for your car can be costly, but it is worth it to have a spare in case you lose yours or put it in your car. It is best to be prepared, rather than risk damaging your car by trying to pry the door open with hangers. Therefore, make sure to get an extra car key and keep it in a safe location. You'll be glad that you did it if you require it in the future!
Older vehicles
The loss of a car key could be a huge hassle. It can result in expensive repair bills and lost work time, particularly if your vehicle isn't able to be accessed. If you have a spare car key, however, you can prevent these issues altogether. A spare key will also save you money in the end. What is the cost of an extra key for the car cost? There are several factors that affect the cost, including the model and make of the vehicle and the type of key.
There are various kinds of keys for cars, with some more intricate than others. The most popular type of key is the standard key, which is used both to lock and unlock doors. They are simple to create and cost between $10 and $15 per copy. Other options include switchblade keys, key fobs and remote keys. They are more sophisticated, and can have features such as alarm activation and remote start. They can be more costly than traditional keys.
If you have an older car it's recommended to have a spare key made prior to losing the original. This will save you the cost of replacing it with newer vehicles. However, if you do lose your key, it is best to replace it as soon as you can. This will allow you access to your vehicle and avoid theft.
A spare car key is a smart investment for any driver. A spare key is useful if you have to replace or damage your original. car key replacement emergencies of a replacement key varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle. It is crucial to take these factors into consideration when selecting a service.
In addition to the key itself, most modern cars come with an electronic chip inside the head of the key. The chip transmits a signal to a security system of the vehicle that will 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 auto locksmith or dealer.
Newer Vehicles
For those who are old enough to remember, it used to be extremely easy to lose your car key without losing a lot of cash. You could take the key's code from the owner's manual to a hardware or locksmith store to have a new one cut at an affordable price. Today things are a bit more complicated. Modern cars have keys with chips in them, which require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. And then there are key fobs, laser cut, 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 use their convenient store locator tool to pinpoint the closest location that services your vehicle.