How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is crucial to ensure peace of mind should you lose or damage your primary key. It can be expensive.
The cost will vary based on whether you get the spare key from a dealer or a locksmith. The cost also differs based on the type of key you need.
Dealerships
The dealership is among the most commonly used methods to get a replacement key. Typically, dealers require information like the vehicle's make and model year, as well as the VIN when they request a new key. The dealer might request proof of ownership or proof of identity to ensure the key is issued to the rightful owner. This process is usually quick and cost-effective depending on the type of keys, however, dealership services are typically more expensive.
You can also purchase a generic key at a hardware store locksmith or online and program it yourself. This is a procedure that many automakers allow drivers to do, and the directions are usually in the owner's manual or on the official website of the manufacturer. However, this process is generally slower and can be more expensive than contacting an locksmith.
If you have a traditional metal key, you can usually get it replaced at a local locksmith for a couple of dollars. If your key is one that is electronic or has a transponder chip, however the price will be significantly more expensive. It is likely to cost around $50-$200 or more.
In most situations, it's best to have an extra car key before you lose your original. You won't get stuck and you'll have a backup key in case of an accident. It's a small price to be paid to have peace of mind and the freedom to drive the car whenever you want.
While purchasing a new key can be a hassle however, it's worth the expense in case you lose your original key or have it stolen. Contact your local locksmith or automaker before deciding on a service. You can also search for reliable key replacement companies and provide them with details about your vehicle to determine whether they are able to provide you with an estimate for the service. This can help you avoid unexpected costs and keep your budget in check.
Locksmiths
A spare car key can be life-saving if you ever get locked out of your car. Keep the spare key in a safe place, as you don't want it to get lost or 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 several ways to obtain an extra car key, which includes the dealership, auto locksmith, or roadside assistance.
The best way to acquire an extra car key is at the dealership where you bought your vehicle. The dealer will have the appropriate key blank and will be in a position to program it to work with your vehicle. This is the most expensive, but the only way to ensure that you have a working replacement key in the event you lose your original.
Many hardware stores and locksmiths will be able to make a car key for you, but the price may vary. A basic car key that does not have a transponder can be made for under $10. However keys with fobs and smart keys are more expensive.
When you need an extra key for your car, you should select a reputable auto locksmith. They should be DBS verified and vetted, and licensed to perform tasks of this kind. They should also have insurance that covers them in case something goes wrong during the process of key duplication.
Replacing a lost key for your car can be costly however it's worth it to have a spare key in the event that you lose yours, or keep it locked in the car. It is always safer to be prepared than to attempt to pry your door open with a coat hanger, and risk damaging the car. Therefore, make sure to get an extra car key and store it in a secure place. You'll be thankful you did if you ever require it!
Older cars
The loss of a car key could be a huge hassle. It can result in expensive repair costs and a loss of time, especially if your vehicle isn't accessible. If you have an extra car key you can avoid these issues altogether. A spare key will also save you money in the end. But how much will an extra car key cost? There are several factors that can influence the price that can affect the price, such as the model and make of the vehicle and the kind of key.
There are various kinds of keys for cars, some more intricate than others. read this post here is a standard key that can be used to lock and unlock the doors. These keys are simple to make and 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 and remote start. However, they may be more expensive than conventional keys.
If you own an older vehicle, it's a good idea to make a spare key before losing the original one. You can avoid the high cost of replacing a car that is newer. If you lose your key it is 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 issues.
A spare car key is an excellent investment for any driver. A spare key can be extremely useful if you lose or damage your original. The cost of a spare car key can differ depending on the brand and model of the vehicle, so it is essential to consider these aspects when choosing the right service provider.
Modern cars are equipped with an electronic chip embedded in the head of the keys. This chip sends signals to a car's security system which can verify the keys and permit drivers to unlock or start their car. If the chips are damaged or lost, they can be expensive to replace and may require the assistance of an expert locksmith or a dealership.
Newer Vehicles
For those of us who are old enough to remember the past, it was extremely easy to lose your car keys without loosing a lot of cash. You could take the code from the owner's manual to the hardware store or locksmith, and get the replacement key cut for an affordable cost. Today, things are a little more complicated. Keys in newer cars are embedded with chips, and require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. There are also key fobs, laser cut and even switchblade keys all of which cost a lot more than the traditional mechanical key.
Ace Hardware offers up to 30% off when you buy your replacement keys on the internet. You can also use the store locator to locate a location near you that can service your vehicle.