How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is vital to have peace of mind should you lose or damage your primary key. However it can be costly.
The cost is contingent on where you have the spare key made, whether it is at a dealership or through an locksmith. The cost varies also depending on the type of key you require.
Dealerships
One of the primary avenues to get a replacement key is through a dealership. Typically, the dealer will request information like the vehicle's make and model year, as well as the VIN when requesting a new key. The dealer might request documents of ownership or identification to ensure the key is issued to the rightful owner. Depending on the kind of key, this procedure is usually affordable and quick, but it is important to keep in mind that dealership services are generally more expensive than other alternatives.
You can also purchase a generic spare car key from the hardware store or locksmith and program it yourself. A lot of automakers 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.
You can usually get a metal key replaced by a local locksmith at a cost of only a couple of dollars. The price will be higher if your key is a transponder or electronic fob. It will likely run you around $50-$200 or more.
It is recommended to make a duplicate of your car key prior to losing the original. You won't be stuck, and you'll have an extra key in the event of an accident. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind and the freedom to drive whenever you want.
It can be a challenge to find an additional key for your vehicle however it's worth it in the event you lose or get your original key stolen. If you're worried about the expense of having a spare car key speak to your local locksmith or automaker before you decide on a particular option. locked key in car no spare 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 help you avoid unexpected costs and help keep your budget in the right place.
Locksmiths
A spare car key could be a lifesaver if you ever get locked out of your vehicle. Keep the spare key in a safe location as you don't want it to be lost or stolen. A spare key could cost between $50 and $200, depending on the model and make of your vehicle. There are a few ways to get an extra car key, including the dealership, auto locksmith, or roadside assistance.
The dealer where you bought your vehicle is the ideal location to purchase an extra key. The dealer will have a blank key, and can program it to work with your car. This is the most expensive option but it's the most surefire way to have a working key in the event that you lose your original one.
The price will vary, but many hardware stores and locksmiths can make you a car key. 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're having a spare car key made, make sure you use a reputable locksmith. They should pass an DBS check and be vetted. They should also be accredited to do this kind of work. They should be covered in the event of anything going wrong during the process of duplication.
It can be expensive to replace keys that are lost however it's worth it to have a spare in the event of losing it or put it in the car. It is best to be prepared than risking damaging your car by trying to pry the door open using hangers. Therefore, make sure to have an extra car key and keep it in a safe location. You'll be glad that you did should you require it!
Older vehicles
Losing your car keys can be a huge hassle. It can result in expensive repair costs and wasted time, especially if you cannot access your vehicle. You can avoid all of these problems by having an additional car key. The possession of a spare key could also save you lots of money in the long run. How much does a spare key for the car cost? There are a few factors that can influence the price, including the model and make of the vehicle and the kind of key.
There are a variety of keys for cars, and some are more intricate than others. The most commonly used type of key is the traditional key, which is used to lock and unlock doors. These keys are simple to create and cost between $10 and $15 for each copy. Other alternatives include key fobs, remote keys, and switchblade keys. They are more sophisticated, and may include features such as alarm activation and remote start. However, they are more expensive than traditional keys.
If you own an older vehicle it is a good idea to have a spare key created before you lose the original key. It will save you the expensive cost of replacing a car that is more modern. If you lose your key, it is recommended to have it replaced as soon as you can. This will ensure you are in a position to gain access to your vehicle and avoid theft or other issues.
A spare car key is a good investment for any driver. A spare key can be very useful in the event that you lose your key, or it is damaged. The cost of a spare car key can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, so it is important to consider these aspects when choosing the right service provider.
Most modern cars also have an electronic chip embedded in the head of the keys. The chip transmits an electronic signal to the car's security system which can verify the keys and allow the driver to unlock or start their car. The chips can be extremely expensive to replace if lost or damaged and may require assistance from a dealership or locksmith.
Newer vehicles
For those old enough to remember, it was quite easy to lose the car key and not lose much money. You could just take the key's code from the owner's manual to a locksmith or hardware store to have a new one cut for an affordable price. Today, things are a little more complicated. The latest cars have keys that have chips built in, which require dealer knowledge to duplicate. Key fobs are also available and laser cuts, as well switchblade keys, all of which cost more than the mechanical key.
Fortunately, you can still save up to 30% at Ace Hardware when you purchase your key replacements online and utilize their store locator tool to pinpoint the nearest location to service your vehicle.