How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
Having a spare car key is important to ensure your safety in the event that you lose or break your primary key. It could be costly.
The cost will differ based on whether you buy the spare key from a dealer or locksmith. The cost also differs based on the type of key you need.
Dealerships
One of the most common methods to get a replacement key is through the dealership. Typically, dealers ask for information such as the vehicle's make and model year, VIN, and year when requesting a replacement key. Additionally, the dealer may require documents of ownership and identification to ensure that the replacement key is given to the owner who is legally entitled to it. Depending on the kind of key, this procedure can be relatively quick and cost-effective, but it is also important to keep in mind that dealership services are generally more expensive than other options.
You can also purchase a generic key at a hardware shop, locksmith or online and program it yourself. This is a procedure that many automakers permit drivers to do, and the steps are usually in the owner's manual or on the website of the manufacturer. However, this procedure is usually slower and may be more costly than contacting an locksmith.
It is common to get the replacement of a key made of metal by a locksmith local to you at a cost of only a couple of dollars. If your key is one that is electronic or has a transponder chip,, the cost will be substantially higher. Expect to pay between $50 and $200.
In most situations, it's best to have a spare car key made 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 cost to pay for peace of mind, and the freedom to drive your car whenever you want.
While getting a new car key may be a pain, it is definitely worth the expense in case you ever lose your original or get it stolen. Contact your local automaker or locksmith before you decide on a service. You can also research reputable key replacement providers and contact them with information about your vehicle to see if they can give you an estimate for the service. This will allow you to avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget in check.
locked key in car no spare can be a lifesaver in the event that you ever have to be locked out of your car. It is crucial to keep the key in a secure place, but you don't want to lose the key or have it stolen. Depending on the make and model of your car it could cost you anywhere from $50 to $200 to have a spare key created. There are several ways to obtain a replacement car key, such as the dealership, an auto locksmith, or roadside assistance.
The best way to acquire a spare car key is to visit the dealership where you purchased your car. The dealer will have the right key blank and will be able to program it so that it works with your vehicle. This is the most expensive option but it is the most surefire method of having a functioning key in case you lose your original one.
Many hardware stores and locksmiths are able to create keys for your car, but the price may vary. A basic car key with transponder chips will typically be made for less than $10 however, a key fob or smart key can be much more expensive.
Whenever you are getting a spare car key, make sure you use a reputable locksmith. They should have completed a DBS check, be vetted, and be licensed to perform this type of work. They should be covered in the event of anything going wrong during the duplication process.
Replacing a lost car keys could be expensive however it's worth the investment to have a spare key in the event that you lose yours, or lock it in the car. It is better to be prepared, rather than risking damaging your vehicle by trying to pry the door open with a hanger. So, make the effort to have a spare 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
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 accessible. You can avoid all these issues if you own an extra car key. A spare key can also save you a significant amount of dollars in the end. But what is the price a spare car key cost? The cost of a key is influenced by several factors, including the model and make of the car and the type key.
There are several types of keys for cars and some are more intricate than others. The most common kind of key is the standard key, which is used to lock and unlock doors. They are simple to make and cost between $10 and $15 for each copy. Other options include key fobs remote keys, and switchblade keys. They can be more sophisticated and come with features such as remote start and alarm activation. They may cost more than the traditional keys.
It is a good idea to create a spare car key if you own an older vehicle. This will help you avoid the high replacement costs of a newer vehicle. If you lose your keys, it's best to replace it as soon as you can. This will ensure that you're able to access your car and avoid theft or other problems.
A spare car key is a smart investment for any driver. The benefit of having a spare key is extremely useful in the event you lose your keys, or if it gets damaged. The cost of a spare car key can differ based on the make and model of the vehicle, so it is crucial to take into consideration these factors when choosing a service provider.
In addition to the key itself most modern cars have an electronic chip in the head of the key. The chip transmits a signal to a security system in the car which can verify the keys and allow drivers to unlock or start their vehicle. If the chips are damaged or lost they may be costly to replace and could require the assistance of an auto locksmith or dealer.
Newer Vehicles
For those old enough to remember, it was quite easy to lose keys to cars and not be out a lot of money. You could take the code from the owner’s manual to a hardware store or locksmith and get an alternative key cut at a very affordable price. The process is a little more complicated today. Keys in the latest cars are equipped with chips and require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. There are also key fobs and laser cuts as well as switchblade keys, which all cost more than the mechanical key.
However, you can save up to 30% at Ace Hardware when you purchase your replacement keys online. You can also utilize their store locator tool to pinpoint the closest location that services your vehicle.