How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is crucial to ensure peace of mind in the event that you lose or damage your primary key. It can be costly.
The cost is contingent on the location you've had the spare key made, whether it is at a dealership or through an locksmith. The cost also differs based on the type of key you need.
Dealerships
The dealership is among the most commonly used methods to obtain a replacement key. If you are requesting a replacement for your key, the dealer could require details such as the vehicle's model and make, VIN, as well as the year. The dealer may request proof of ownership or proof of identity to ensure that the key is given to the correct owner. Based on the type of key, this process is usually quick and cost-effective, but it is important to keep in mind that dealer services are generally more expensive than other options.
Alternately, you can purchase a generic spare car key at a hardware store or locksmith and program it yourself. This is something that a lot of automakers permit drivers to do, and the instructions are usually in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer website. This procedure can be slower and more expensive than calling a locksmith.
You can usually get a metal key replaced by a locksmith local to you at a cost of just a few dollars. The price is higher if your key is a transponder or electronic fob. You can expect to be charged between $50 and $200.
In the majority of situations, it's best to have a spare car key made before you lose your original. You won't get stuck and you'll have an extra key in the event of an accident. It is a small price to pay for peace of mind and the ability to drive your car at any time you want.
While purchasing a new key can be a hassle however, it's worth it in the event that you ever lose your original key or get it stolen. If spare car keys worried about the expense of a spare car key, consult your local locksmith or automaker before deciding on a particular service. You can also reach out to reliable key replacement companies and provide them with information regarding your vehicle to receive a quote. This will help you avoid any unexpected expenses and keep your budget in control.
Locksmiths
If you've ever had to get locked out of your car, a spare key may be useful. It is essential to keep the key in a safe place, but you do not want to lose it or lose it. Depending on the model and make of your vehicle it could cost you anywhere from between $50 and $200 to get a spare key created. There are a few ways to get an alternative car key, such as the dealership, an auto locksmith, and roadside assistance.
The best way to get a spare car key is to visit the dealership where you bought your car. The dealer will have a blank key and can program it to work with your vehicle. This is the most expensive option however it is the most secure method of having a functioning key in case you lose the original key.
Many locksmiths and hardware stores will be able to make a car key for you, but the price may vary. A basic car key without transponder chips can typically be made for less than $10, while a key fob, or smart key may be more expensive.
When you need a spare key for your vehicle, you should only use a reputable auto locksmith. They must be DBS verified and vetted, and licensed to perform work of this type. They should also have insurance which covers them in the event that something goes wrong during the process of key duplication.
Replacing a lost car key is costly however it's worth the cost to have a spare in the event that you lose yours, or put it in your car. It is best to be prepared than risking damaging your car by trying to open the door open using a hanger. Take the time to make an extra key for your vehicle and store it in a safe place. You'll be grateful you did it if you require it in the future!
Older Vehicles
Losing your car keys can be a major inconvenience. It can result in costly repair bills and a loss of time, especially if are not able to access your vehicle. You can avoid all these issues if you own an additional car key. The possession of a spare key could also save you a lot of dollars in the end. How much does a spare key for an automobile cost? There are a few factors that affect the cost, including the model and make of the car and the kind of key.
There are various kinds of keys for cars, with some more intricate than others. The most commonly used is a traditional key that is used to lock and unlock doors. These are simple to make and generally cost $10 - $15 per copy. Other options include key fobs remote keys, and switchblade keys. These keys can be more advanced and come with features such as alarm activation via remote. They can be more costly than traditional keys.
It's a good idea to have an extra car key in case you own an older vehicle. This will help you avoid the costly replacement costs associated with the latest model. If you lose your keys you should replace it as soon as possible. This will allow you to access your vehicle and stop theft.
A spare car key is an excellent investment for any driver. The benefit of having a spare key is very useful in the event that you lose your key, or if it gets damaged. The cost of the spare car key may vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, and it is crucial to take into consideration these factors when choosing a service provider.
In addition to the key itself most modern cars come with an electronic chip inside the head of the key. The chip transmits an electronic signal to the car's security system that can verify the key and allow the driver to unlock or start their car. These chips are costly to replace if they are damaged or lost and could require the help of an auto dealer or locksmith.
Newer vehicles
For those old enough to remember, it was very easy to lose the car key and not lose a lot of money. You could simply take the key code from the owner's manual to a locksmith or hardware store to have a new one cut at a reasonable cost. It's a bit more complicated nowadays. Newer 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 the traditional mechanical key.
There's no reason not to save up to 30% at Ace Hardware when you purchase your key replacements online and use their store locator tool to pinpoint the nearest location that can service your vehicle.