How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is essential to ensure peace of mind if you lose or damage your primary key. It could be costly.
The cost will vary depending on whether you purchase the spare key from a dealer or a locksmith. The cost also varies based on the type of key you require.
Dealerships
One of the most popular options for obtaining a replacement car key is through a dealership. When requesting a replacement key, the dealer could request details such as the vehicle's model and make, VIN, and year. The dealer might also ask for evidence of ownership or identification to ensure that the key is given to its rightful owner. Based on the type of key, this procedure can be fairly efficient and cost-effective, however it is also important to keep in mind that dealership services are generally more expensive than other options.
Alternately, you can buy a generic spare car key from an auto repair shop or locksmith and program it yourself. Most automakers permit drivers to do this, and it is usually covered in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website. However, this process is generally more time-consuming and could be more expensive than calling 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 few dollars. If your key is an electronic fob or transponder chip, however the price will be significantly more expensive. It could cost you about $50 to $200 or more.
It is recommended to create a duplicate car key prior to losing 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 ability to drive your car whenever you'd like.
It might be difficult to obtain an additional key for your car however it's worth it if you lose or get the original key stolen. Talk to your local locksmith or automaker before deciding on a solution. You can also contact reputable key replacement companies and provide them with information regarding your vehicle to get a quote. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs and help keep your budget in the right place.
Locksmiths
If you've ever had to get locked out of your vehicle, a spare key can help. Keep get spare key made in a safe location as you don't want it to get lost or stolen. Depending on the make and model of your car, it can cost $50-$200 to have an extra key made. You can obtain a replacement car key from a variety of sources, including a dealership or auto-locksmith, as well as roadside assistance.
The dealership where you purchased your car is the best source of 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 be sure that you have a functioning replacement key in the event you lose your original.
Many hardware stores and locksmiths are able to create keys for your car however, the cost may vary. A basic car key that doesn't include a transponder could be made for under $10. However, a key fob and smart key are more expensive.
When you need an extra key for your car, you should only use an auto locksmith who is reliable. They must pass a DBS check and be vetted. They must also be licensed to perform this type of work. They should be insured in the event that something goes wrong during the process of duplication.
Replacing a lost key for your car can be costly however it's worth the investment to have a spare in case you lose yours or keep it locked in the car. It is best to be prepared rather than risking damaging your car by trying to pry the door open with hangers. Therefore, make sure to have a spare car key made and keep it in a safe place. You'll be happy that you did it in the event that you require it in the future!
Older vehicles
It's a major hassle to lose your car key. It can result in expensive repair bills and lost time, particularly if you cannot access your vehicle. You can avoid all of these issues if you own an additional car key. A spare key will also save you money in the end. How much does an extra key for a car cost? There are a few variables that affect the cost that can affect the price, such as the make and model of the car and the type of key.
There are a variety of keys for cars, and some are more complicated than others. The most commonly used type of key is the traditional key, which is used to lock and unlock doors. These are simple to make and typically cost $10 - $15 per copy. Other options include switchblade keys, remote keys and key fobs. These keys can be more advanced and include features like alarm activation and remote start. However, they may be more expensive than traditional keys.
It is a good thing to make a spare car key if you own an older car. You can avoid the high costs of replacing a vehicle that is more modern. However, if you do lose your key, it is best to have it replaced immediately. This will ensure that you are in a position to gain access to your vehicle and avoid theft or other issues.
A spare key for your car is a wise investment for any driver. A spare key can be extremely useful in the event that you lose or damage the original. The cost of an extra car key could vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Hence, it is important to consider these factors when choosing a service provider.
Most modern cars also have an electronic chip embedded in the head of the keys. This chip sends signals to a security system of the vehicle that can verify the key and allow the driver to unlock or start their vehicle. If these chips are damaged or destroyed they could be costly to replace and could require the assistance of an auto locksmith or dealer.
Newer Vehicles
For those of us who are old enough to remember in the past, it was very easy to lose your car keys without losing a significant amount of money. You could take the code from the owner's manual to a hardware store or locksmith and have a replacement key cut at the most affordable cost. Things are a bit more complicated today. Modern cars have keys with chips built in, which require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. There are also key fobs and laser cuts, as well as switchblade keys that 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 will service your vehicle.
