How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is crucial to ensure peace of mind if you lose or damage your primary key. It could be costly.
The cost will vary based on the location you've had the spare key made, whether at the dealership or through an locksmith. The cost also varies depending on the kind of key you require.
Dealerships
One of the most popular options for obtaining a replacement car key is through a dealership. Typically, dealers request information like the vehicle's make and model, year, and VIN when requesting a new key. In addition, the dealer might request documents of ownership and identification to ensure that the new key is issued to the owner who is legally entitled to it. This process can be quick and cost-effective depending on the type of keys used, however, dealer services are generally more expensive.
Alternately, you can purchase a generic spare car key from a hardware store or locksmith and program it yourself. This is something that a lot of automakers allow drivers to do, and the instructions are usually found in the owner's manual or on the website of the manufacturer. However, this process is generally slower and can be more costly than contacting a locksmith.
It is common to get a metal key replaced by a locksmith local to you for only a couple of dollars. If your key is an electronic fob or transponder chip, however the price is significantly higher. You can expect to spend between $50 and $200.
In most instances, it is recommended to have an extra 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's a small price to pay to have peace of mind and the freedom to drive your vehicle whenever you'd like.
While purchasing a new key can be a hassle but it's definitely worth it in the event that you lose your original key or have it stolen. If you are concerned about the cost of an extra car key, speak to your local locksmith or automaker before you decide on a particular option. You can also look up reputable key replacement providers and provide them with details regarding your vehicle to find out whether they can provide you with an estimate for the service. This will allow you to avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget under control.
Locksmiths
If you've ever had to get locked out of your vehicle, a spare key can be useful. It is crucial to keep the key in a secure place, however, as you do not want to lose it or lose it. Depending on the model and make of your car it could cost you anywhere from $50 to $200 to have an extra key made. There are a few options to obtain an extra car key, such as the dealership, auto locksmith, or roadside assistance.
The best way to get an extra car key is to visit the dealership that you bought 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 the only way to be sure that you have a functional replacement key in the event that you lose the original.
Many hardware stores and locksmiths can make keys for your car however, the cost 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 can be much more expensive.
If you require an extra key for your car, select an auto locksmith who is reliable. They should pass an DBS check, be vetted, and be accredited to do this type of work. They should also be insured that covers them in the event something goes wrong during the key duplication process.
It's costly to replace the key that was lost, but it's worth it to have one in the event of losing it or lock it inside the car. It is always safer to be prepared, rather than try to pry your door open with a coat hanger and risk damaging the car. Therefore, make sure to get a spare car key made and keep it in a secure place. You'll be glad that you did should you require it!
Older cars
It can be a huge hassle to lose your car key. It can lead to expensive repair bills and a loss of time, especially if are not able to access your vehicle. If you have an extra car key you can avoid these issues completely. A spare key will also save you money in the end. But what is the price a spare car key cost? The price is influenced by several factors, such as the model and make of the vehicle 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 traditional key, which is used to lock and unlock doors. They are simple to make and cost between $10 and $15 per copy. Other alternatives include key fobs, remote keys, and switchblade keys. These are more sophisticated and can have features like alarm activation and remote start. They are more expensive than the traditional keys.
If you own an older vehicle it's recommended to have a spare key created before losing the original one. You will avoid the costly costs of replacing a vehicle that is newer. If you lose your keys you should replace it as soon as you can. This will allow you access to your vehicle and avoid theft.
A spare key for your car is a wise investment for any driver. Having a spare can be very useful in the event you lose your keys, or it is damaged. The cost of a spare car key can differ based on the make and model of the vehicle, so it is essential to consider these aspects when choosing a service provider.
Most modern cars also have an electronic chip embedded in the head of keys. The chip transmits an electronic signal to the security system in the car that will verify the key and allow drivers to unlock or start their car. These chips can be very costly to replace if lost or damaged, and may require assistance from a dealership or locksmith.
Newer Vehicles
For those of us old enough to recall, it was once extremely easy to lose the car key and not lose many dollars. make spare key near me could take the code from the owner’s manual to a hardware store or locksmith and have an alternative key cut at an affordable cost. Today, things are a little more complicated. Keys in the latest cars are equipped with chips, and they require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. There are also key fobs and laser cuts, as well as switchblade keys, all of which cost more than a 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 locate a location near you that will service your vehicle.