How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare key for your car is vital to have peace of mind in the event that you lose or damage your primary key. It could be costly.
The cost is contingent on where you have the spare key made, whether at the dealership or through the locksmith. The cost varies also depending on the type of key you require.
Dealerships
One of the primary avenues for obtaining a replacement car key is through the dealer. Typically, dealers ask for details such as the car's make and model, year, and VIN when requesting a replacement key. make a spare key near me might also require proof of ownership or proof of identity to ensure the key is issued to its rightful owner. This process is usually quick and cost-effective, depending on the type of keys used, however, dealer services are generally more expensive.
You can also purchase a generic spare key from a hardware store, locksmith, or online and program it yourself. This is a procedure that many automakers allow drivers to do, and the steps are usually found in the owner's guide or on the official website of the manufacturer. This procedure can be slower and more expensive than calling a locksmith.
It is possible to have an old key replaced by a locksmith local to you at a cost of only a couple of dollars. The cost is higher if the key is a transponder or electronic fob. Expect to pay between $50 and $200.
It is usually best to make a duplicate of your car key prior to losing the original. That way, you won't be left in a bind and you'll have a backup in case of an emergency. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind and the freedom to drive whenever you'd like.
While purchasing a new key isn't easy, it is definitely worth it in the event that you ever lose your original or get it stolen. Talk to your local automaker or locksmith before deciding on a solution. You can also look up reputable key replacement providers and send them a list of details about your vehicle to see if they can give you an estimate for the service. This will help you avoid unexpected expenses and keep your budget in the right place.
Locksmiths
If you've ever been locked out of your vehicle, a spare key may help. It is important to keep the key in a secure location, however, since you do not want to lose the key or have it stolen. Depending on the model and make of your vehicle it could cost you anywhere from between $50 and $200 to get a spare key made. There are a variety of options to obtain an alternative car key, such as the dealership, an auto locksmith, and roadside assistance.
The dealer where you bought your car is the best place to get a spare key. The dealer will have a blank key, and can program it to work with your car. This is the most expensive, but it is the only way to ensure that you have a functioning key replacement in the event you lose your original.
The cost can differ, but a lot of locksmiths and hardware stores will create car keys. A basic car key that does not include a transponder could be made for less than $10. However keys with fobs and smart keys are more expensive.
If you're having a spare car key made ensure that you choose a trustworthy locksmith. They must be DBS verified and checked, and accredited to carry out tasks of this kind. They should be insured in the event that something goes wrong during the duplication process.
Replacing a lost car key is costly, but it is worth the cost to have a spare key in case you lose yours or lock it in the car. It is better to be prepared rather than risking damaging your vehicle by trying to open the door open with a hanger. So, make the effort to get an extra car key and store it in a safe location. You'll be glad you did if you ever need it!
Older vehicles
It's a major inconvenience to lose a car key. This can lead to costly repair bills and lost work time, especially if the vehicle isn't able to be accessed. You can avoid all of these problems by having an extra car key. A spare key can save you money in the end. What does a spare key for an automobile cost? There are a few factors that affect the cost, including the model and make of the vehicle and the kind of key.
There are various kinds of keys for cars, with some more complex than others. The most common is a traditional key that is used to lock and unlock the doors. They are simple to create and typically 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 alarm activation via remote. They can be more costly than conventional keys.
If you own an older vehicle it's a good idea to have a spare key created prior to losing the original. You will avoid the costly cost of replacing a car that is newer. If you lose your keys it is best to replace it as soon as you can. This will allow you access to your vehicle and stop theft.
A spare car key is an excellent investment for any driver. Having a spare can be extremely beneficial in the event you lose your keys, or it is damaged. The cost of the spare car key may differ based on the make and model of the vehicle, and it is essential to consider these aspects when choosing a service provider.
In addition to the key itself the majority of modern cars include an electronic chip in the head of the key. The chip transmits signals to a security system of the vehicle which can verify the keys and allow the driver to unlock or start their vehicle. If these chips become damaged or destroyed they may be costly to replace and could require the assistance of an expert locksmith or a dealership.
Newer vehicles
For those old enough to remember, it was once extremely easy to lose keys to cars and not have to pay a lot of money. You could take the code from the owner’s manual to the hardware store or locksmith and get an alternative key cut at an affordable cost. Today, things are a little more complicated. Modern cars have keys with chips in them, which 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 the mechanical key.
Ace Hardware offers up to 30% off when you buy your replacement keys online. You can also use the store locator to locate an Ace Hardware store near you that can service your vehicle.