How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is vital for peace of mind in case you lose or break your primary key. It can be expensive.
The cost will vary based on where you've got the spare key made, whether at a dealership or through the locksmith. The cost also varies depending on the kind of key you require.
Dealerships
One of the most common methods to obtain a replacement car key is through a dealership. If you are requesting a replacement for your key, the dealer could request information such as vehicle make and model, VIN, and year. The dealer might request proof of ownership or identification to ensure that the key is given to the correct owner. This process can be quick and cost-effective based on the type of keys used, however, dealer services are generally more expensive.
Alternately, you can purchase a standard 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 covered in the owner's manual or on the website of the manufacturer. This process may be slower and more expensive than calling a locksmith.
If you have a traditional metal key, you can usually replace it at an area locksmith for couple of dollars. The price is higher if the key is a transponder, or electronic fob. You can expect to spend between $50 and $200.
It is generally recommended to make a duplicate car key prior to losing the original. That way, you won't be left without a car and will have a backup in the event in the event of an emergency. It's a small cost to pay to have peace of mind and the freedom to drive your vehicle whenever you want.
It may be difficult to obtain a new key for your vehicle, but it's worth it in the event you lose the original key stolen. If you are concerned about the expense of having a spare car key talk to your local locksmith or automaker prior to deciding on a specific service. You can also research trustworthy key replacement services and provide them with details about your vehicle to see whether they can provide you with a quote for the service. This will allow you to avoid any unexpected expenses and keep your budget under control.
Locksmiths
If you've ever been locked out of your car, a spare key may help. Keep the spare key in a safe place as you do not want it to be lost or stolen. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, it can cost between $50 and $200 to get an extra key made. You can purchase a new car key from a number of sources, such as a dealership, an auto-locksmith, or roadside assistance.
The dealership you bought your car is the best place to get an extra key. The dealer will have the right key blank and will be in a position to program it so that it works with your vehicle. This is the most expensive option, however it is the most surefire method to ensure you have a functioning key in case you lose your original key.
Many locksmiths and hardware stores are able to create a car key for you however the cost could vary. A basic car key without a transponder chip can usually be made for less than $10 while a key fob, or smart key could be more costly.
When you need a spare key for your vehicle, you should select an auto locksmith that is reputable. They should be DBS verified and checked, and licensed to perform the work. They should also be insured that covers them in case something goes wrong during the process of key duplication.
It can be expensive to replace keys that are lost, but it's worth it to have one in the event of losing it or lock it inside the car. It is best to be prepared, rather than risking damaging your car by trying to open the door off with hangers. Make an extra key for your vehicle and store it safely. You'll be thankful you did it if you ever require it!
Older vehicles
It's a major hassle to lose your car key. This could result in costly repair costs and lost work time, especially if your vehicle isn't able to be accessed. If you have a spare car key however, you can avoid these problems altogether. Having a spare key can also save you a lot of money in the long run. But what is the price an extra car key cost? There are several factors that could affect the price such as the make and model of the car and the type of key.
There are a variety of car keys, some more complicated than others. The most popular type of key is the standard key, which is used both to lock and unlock doors. These keys are simple to make and cost between $10 and $15 per copy. Other options include key fobs remote keys, and switchblade keys. They can be more sophisticated and include features such as alarm activation via remote. However, they may be more expensive than traditional keys.
It's a good idea to have an extra car key if you own an older car. It will save you the expensive costs of replacing a vehicle that is newer. If related lose your key you should replace it as soon as possible. This will allow you to gain access to your vehicle and avoid theft.
A spare car key is a good investment for any driver. The benefit of having a spare key is extremely useful in the event that you lose your key, or it is damaged. The cost of a replacement car key varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle. It is important to take these aspects into consideration when choosing the right service.
The majority of modern cars also have an electronic chip embedded inside the head of the keys. This chip sends signals to a car's security system which can verify the keys and permit drivers to unlock or start their vehicle. If these chips are damaged or lost, they can be expensive to replace and may require the assistance of a locksmith or dealership.
Newer vehicles
For those of us old enough to remember, it was extremely easy to lose the car key and not lose a lot of money. You could take the code from the owner's manual to a hardware store or locksmith and get a replacement key cut at an affordable cost. The process is a little more complicated nowadays. Keys in modern cars are embedded with chips and require dealer knowledge to duplicate. Key fobs are also available and laser cuts as well as switchblade keys that all cost more than the mechanical key.
There's no reason not to save up to 30 percent at Ace Hardware when you purchase the replacement keys online and use their store locator tool to pinpoint the nearest location to service your vehicle.