How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
Having a spare car key is essential to ensure your safety in the event you lose or break your primary key. It can be costly.
The cost is contingent on where you've got the spare key made, whether at the dealership or through a locksmith. The cost is also contingent on the type you need.
Dealerships
The dealership is among the most common ways to get a replacement key. When requesting a replacement key, the dealer may request details such as the vehicle's model and make, VIN, and year. The dealer might request documents of ownership or proof of identity to ensure that the key is issued to the rightful owner. Depending on the kind of key, this procedure can be fairly efficient and cost-effective, however it is important to keep in mind that dealer services are typically more expensive than other options.
spare car key replacement cost can purchase a generic spare key at a hardware store locksmith, or online and program it yourself. A lot of automakers allow drivers to do this, and it's typically described in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website. This process may be more time-consuming and costly than calling a locksmith.
If you have a conventional metal key, you can generally replace it at a local locksmith for a few dollars. The price will be higher if the key is a transponder, or electronic fob. It will likely run you about $50 to $200 or more.
In most cases, it is best to have a spare car key made prior to losing your original. So, you won't be left stranded and you will have a backup in case in an emergency. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind and the ability to drive your car whenever you want.
While buying a new car key can be a hassle however, it's worth the cost in case you lose your original one or get it stolen. Talk to your local automaker or locksmith before deciding on a service. You can also contact reliable key replacement companies and provide them with the details about your vehicle in order to get a quote. This will allow you to avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget under control.
Locksmiths
If you've ever been locked out of your vehicle, a spare key may help. It is essential to keep the key in a secure place, however, as you don't want to lose the key or have it stolen. Depending on the model and make of your car, it can cost $50-$200 to have a spare key made. You can obtain a replacement car key from a variety of sources, such as a dealership or auto-locksmith, as well as roadside assistance.
The dealer where you bought your vehicle is the best location to purchase an extra key. The dealer will have the correct key blank and will be in a position to program it so that it works with your vehicle. This is the most expensive, but the only way to be sure that you have a functioning replacement key in the event you lose the original.
Many locksmiths and hardware stores are able to create a car key for you however, the cost may differ. A basic car key that does not have a transponder chip can usually be made for less than $10 however, a key fob or smart key could be more expensive.
If you're having a spare car key ensure that you choose a reliable locksmith. They should pass completed a DBS check and be vetted. They must also be certified to perform this kind of work. They should also carry insurance which covers them in the event that something goes wrong during the key duplication process.
Replacing a lost car keys could be expensive however it's worth the cost to have a spare in case you lose it or lock it in the car. It is always safer to be prepared than to attempt to open your door open with an old coat hanger and risk damaging your car. Make an extra key for your car and store it safely. You'll be grateful you did it if you ever need it!
Older vehicles
Losing a car key can be a major inconvenience. It can lead to expensive repair bills and lost time, particularly if you are unable to get into your vehicle. If you have a spare car key, you can avoid these issues altogether. A spare key can save you money in the end. What is the cost of a spare key for an automobile cost? The cost is influenced by many factors, including the model and make of the car and the type of key.
There are a variety of car keys, some more complicated than others. The most common is a traditional key that is used to lock and unlock the doors. These are simple to make and generally cost between $10 and $15 per copy. Other options include switchblade keys, remote keys and key fobs. These are more advanced, and may include features such as alarm activation and remote start. However, they can be more expensive 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 can avoid the high cost of replacing a car that is more modern. If you do lose the key, it's best to have it replaced immediately. This will ensure that you're capable of accessing your car, and prevent theft or other issues.
A spare key for your car is a wise investment for any driver. A spare key is useful if you lose or damage the original. The cost of a replacement key is contingent on the model and make of the car. It is important to take these aspects into consideration when choosing the right provider.
In addition to the key itself, the majority of modern cars come with an electronic chip inside the head of the key. This chip transmits an electronic signal to the security system of the car that can confirm that the key is valid and allows the driver to unlock or start the vehicle. If the chips are damaged or lost they may be costly to replace and may require the assistance of an auto locksmith or dealer.
Newer Vehicles
For those old enough to recall, it was once very easy to lose keys to cars and not lose many dollars. You could take the key code from the owner's manual to a hardware or locksmith store to have a new one cut for a reasonable cost. Nowadays things are more complicated. Modern cars have keys with chips built in, which require the knowledge of a dealer to duplicate. Then there are key fobs, laser cut and even switchblade keys - all of which cost more than a traditional mechanical key.
Ace Hardware offers up to 30 percent off when you purchase your replacement keys online. You can also use the store locator to find a location near you that can service your vehicle.