How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is important to have peace of mind in case you lose or break your primary key. However, it can be expensive.
The cost will differ based on whether you purchase the spare key from a retailer or a locksmith. The cost also varies depending on the kind of key you require.
Dealerships
The dealership is among the most popular ways to get a replacement key. Typically, spare key maker will ask for information like the vehicle's model and make year, as well as the VIN when requesting a replacement key. The dealer may also ask for documents of ownership or proof of identity to ensure the key is issued to its rightful owner. This process can be quick and cost-effective based on the type of keys you require, however, dealer services are generally more expensive.
You can also buy a generic spare car key from an auto repair shop or locksmith and program it yourself. Many automakers will allow drivers to do this, and it's usually explained in the owner's manual or on the website of the manufacturer. However, this procedure is generally slower and can be more costly than contacting the locksmith.
If you have a conventional metal key, you are able to get it replaced at an area locksmith for couple of dollars. If your key is an electronic fob or transponder chip, the price is substantially more expensive. It will likely run you between $50 and $200 or more.
In the majority of situations, it's best to have a spare car key made before you lose your original. This way you won't end up without a car and will have a backup in the event in an emergency. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind and the freedom to drive whenever you like.
While buying a new car key may be a pain, it is definitely worth the expense in case you lose your original one or have it stolen. Talk to your local locksmith or automaker before you decide on a service. You can also contact reliable key replacement firms and provide them with information about your vehicle in order to receive a quote. This will help you avoid unexpected costs and help keep your budget in the right place.
Locksmiths
A spare car key can be a lifesaver if you ever get locked out of your car. Keep the spare key in a secure place as you do not want it to be lost or stolen. Depending on the model and make of your car, it can cost between $50 and $200 to get an extra key made. There are a few ways to obtain an alternative car key, including the dealership, an auto locksmith, and roadside assistance.
The dealer where you bought your vehicle is the best place to get an extra key. 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 ensure that you have a functioning replacement key in the event that you lose the original.
The cost will vary, but many locksmiths and hardware stores will create an auto key. A basic car key that doesn't include a transponder could be made for less than $10. However, a key fob and smart key are more expensive.
If you're looking to get a spare car key made be sure to use a trustworthy locksmith. 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 process of duplication.
It's costly to replace a lost key however it's worth it to have a spare in the event of losing it or lock it inside the car. It is always better to be prepared rather than try to pry your door open with an old coat hanger and risk damaging the car. So, make the effort to have a spare car key and store it in a safe place. You'll be happy you did it if you require it in the future!
Older vehicles
Losing your car keys can be a major inconvenience. It can result in expensive repair bills and lost work time, especially if your vehicle isn't able to be accessed. If you have a spare car key you can avoid these problems altogether. Having a spare key can also save you lots of money in the long term. What is the cost of an extra key for an automobile cost? The cost will depend on many factors, including the model and make of the vehicle and the type of key.
There are many kinds of keys for cars, and some are more complex than others. The most common is a traditional key that is used to lock and unlock the doors. These keys are simple to create and cost between $10 and $15 for each copy. Other options include key fobs remote keys, and switchblade keys. They are more sophisticated, and may include features such as alarm activation and remote start. They are more expensive than conventional keys.
It is a good idea to make an extra car key if you have an older vehicle. This will save you the cost of replacing it with the latest model. If you do lose your key, it is recommended to have it replaced as soon as you can. This will ensure you are able to access your car and also prevent theft or other problems.
A spare car key is a wise investment for any driver. A spare key is useful if you have to replace or damage your original. The cost of a replacement car key varies depending on the model and make of the vehicle. It is crucial to take these aspects into consideration when selecting a provider.
The majority of modern cars also have an electronic chip that is embedded in the head of keys. This chip sends a signal to a security system of the vehicle that can verify the key and allow drivers to open or start their car. If these chips become damaged or destroyed they may be costly to replace and could require the assistance of a locksmith or dealership.
Newer vehicles
For those old enough to remember, it was extremely easy to lose a car key and not lose much money. You could simply take the key's code from the owner's manual to a hardware or locksmith store to have an alternative cut at a very reasonable price. Things are a bit more complicated nowadays. The latest cars have keys that have chips in them, which require dealer knowledge to duplicate. There are also key fobs and laser cuts, as well switchblade keys, which all cost more than a mechanical key.
Ace Hardware offers up to 30 percent off when you purchase your replacement keys online. You can also use the convenient store locator to find an Ace Hardware store near you that services your vehicle.