How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
Having a spare car key is vital for peace of mind in the event that you lose or break your primary key. However it can be costly.
The cost will vary based on the location you've had the spare key made, whether at a dealership or through the locksmith. The cost also differs based on the kind of key you require.
Dealerships
The dealership is one of the most popular ways to get a replacement key. Typically, the dealer will ask for information such as the vehicle's make and model, year, and VIN when they request a new key. The dealer may request evidence of ownership or identification to ensure that the key is given to the correct owner. This process is usually quick and cost-effective, depending on the type of keys you require, however, dealer services are generally more expensive.
You can also purchase a generic key from a hardware store, locksmith or online and program it yourself. This is something that a lot of automakers allow drivers to do, and the directions are usually included in the owner's manual or on the website of the manufacturer. This process may be slower and more expensive than calling a locksmith.
If you have a traditional metal key, you can generally get it replaced at a local locksmith for a couple of dollars. The cost is higher if your key is a transponder or an electronic fob. You can expect to spend between $50 and $200.
It is usually best to create a duplicate car key before you lose the original. So you won't end up without a car and will have a backup in the event of an emergency. It's a small cost to be paid to have peace of mind and the freedom to drive your car whenever you want.
While getting a new car key isn't easy however, it's worth it in the event that you lose your original one or have it stolen. Talk to your local locksmith or automaker before deciding on a service. You can also reach out to reliable key replacement companies and provide them with the details about your vehicle to receive a price. This can help you avoid unexpected expenses and keep your budget in control.
Locksmiths
If you've ever had to get locked out of your vehicle A spare key could be useful. Keep the spare key in a secure place, as you don't want it to be lost or stolen. Depending on the model and make of your car it could cost you anywhere from $50-$200 to have an extra key made. There are a variety of ways to get a replacement car key, such as the dealership, an auto locksmith, or roadside assistance.
The best way to acquire a spare car key is at the dealership that you bought your vehicle. The dealer will have the correct key blank and will be in a position to program it to work with your vehicle. This is the most expensive option however it is the most surefire method of having a functioning key in case you lose the original key.
The cost will vary, but most locksmiths and hardware stores can create an auto key. A basic car key that does not contain a transponder may be made for under $10. However keys with fobs and smart keys are more expensive.
Whenever you are getting a spare car key, make sure you use a reliable locksmith. They should pass an DBS check, be vetted, and be licensed to perform this type of work. They should be insured in case anything goes wrong during the duplication process.
spare remote car key to replace the key that was lost but it's worthwhile to have one in the event that you lose it, or keep it locked inside the car. It is always safer to be prepared rather than attempt to pry your door open with a coat hanger, and risk damaging your car. Take the time to make a spare key for your vehicle and store it safely. You'll be glad that you did it if you ever need it!
Older Vehicles
It's a major hassle to lose your car key. This can lead to costly repair costs and a loss of time, particularly if your vehicle isn't accessible. If you have an extra car key you can avoid these issues completely. The possession of a spare key could also save you a significant amount of money in the long term. But how much will a spare car key cost? The price is influenced by several factors, such as the model and make of the vehicle and the type of key.
There are various kinds of car keys, some more intricate than others. The most common type of key is the standard key, which is used to lock and unlock doors. These are easy to create and cost between $10 and $15 per copy. Other alternatives include key fobs, remote keys, and switchblade keys. These can be more advanced and come with features such as remote start and alarm activation. However, they may be more expensive than traditional keys.
If you have an older car it's recommended to have a spare key created before losing the original one. It will save you the expensive cost of replacing a car that is more modern. 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 also prevent theft or other problems.
A spare car key is a good investment for any driver. The benefit of having a spare key is extremely useful in the event 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 crucial to take into consideration these factors when choosing the right service provider.
The majority of modern cars also have an electronic chip that is embedded inside the head of the keys. The chip transmits signals to a car's security system that can verify the key and permit drivers to open or start their vehicle. These chips can be very costly to replace if lost or damaged and may require the help of locksmiths or dealers.
Newer Vehicles
For those who are old enough to remember the past, it was extremely easy to lose your car key without loosing a lot of cash. You could simply take the key's code from the owner's manual to a locksmith or hardware store and get a new one cut at a very reasonable price. Nowadays, 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 switchblade keys, which all cost more than the mechanical key.
There's no reason not to save up to 30% at Ace Hardware when you purchase your replacement keys online. You can also utilize their store locator tool to find the nearest location to service your vehicle.