How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
Having a spare car key is important to have peace of mind in case you lose or break your primary key. It can be costly.
The cost varies depending on the location you've had the spare key made, whether it is at a dealership or through the locksmith. The cost varies also depending on the type of key you need.
Dealerships
The dealership is one of the most popular ways to obtain a replacement key. Typically, dealers require information such as the vehicle's model and make year, as well as the VIN when requesting a replacement key. The dealer might also require documents of ownership or proof of identity to ensure the key is issued to its rightful owner. This procedure can be swift and cost-effective based on the type of keys you require, but dealership services are usually more expensive.
You can also purchase a generic key from a hardware store, locksmith, or even online and program it yourself. Many automakers will allow drivers to do this, and it's usually covered in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website. However, this procedure is usually slower and may be more expensive than calling an locksmith.
If you own a traditional metal key, you can usually get it replaced at the local locksmith for a couple of dollars. If your key is an electronic fob or transponder chip,, the cost will be substantially higher. It could cost you between $50 and $200 or more.
In the majority of cases, it is best to have an extra car key before you lose your original. That way you won't be stranded and you will have a backup plan 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 vehicle whenever you want.
It might be difficult to find an additional key for your car but it's worth it in the event you lose or have your original key stolen. If you're worried about the expense of having a spare car key talk to your local locksmith or automaker prior to deciding on a particular option. You can also look up reliable key replacement companies and contact them with information about your vehicle to determine if they can give you a quote for the service. This will allow you to avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget in check.
Locksmiths
A spare car key can be life-saving if you ever find yourself locked out of your car. Keep the spare key in a secure place as you do not want it to be lost or stolen. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle it could cost you anywhere from $50 to $200 to have a spare key created. There are a few ways to get an alternative car key, which includes the dealership, an auto locksmith, and roadside assistance.
The dealership where you purchased your car is the best source of an extra key. The dealer will have a blank key, and can program it to work with your vehicle. This is the most expensive, but it is the only way to be sure that you have a functioning replacement key in the event that you lose your original.
The cost can vary, but many hardware stores and locksmiths can make car keys. A basic car key that does not have transponder chips can typically be made for less than $10 while a key fob, or smart key can be much more expensive.
If you're looking to get a spare car key made, make sure you use a reputable locksmith. They must pass completed a DBS check and be vetted. They should also be certified to perform this kind of work. They should be insured in the event of anything going wrong during the process of duplication.
Replacing a lost key for your car is costly however it is worth the cost to have a spare key in case you lose it or lock it in your car. It is always better to be prepared rather than attempt to open your door open with a coat hanger and risk damaging the car. So, take the time to get a spare car key made and keep it in a secure place. You'll be thankful that you did should you need it!
Older cars
It can be a huge inconvenience to lose a vehicle key. It can result in costly repair costs and wasted time, especially if you are not able to access your vehicle. You can avoid all of these issues if you own an additional car key. A spare key can save you money in the end. But how much will an extra car key cost? There are several factors that could affect the price, including the model and make of the vehicle as well as the kind of key.
There are various kinds of keys for cars, some more complex than others. The most commonly used is a standard key that is used to lock and unlock the doors. These keys are simple to create and cost between $10 and $15 for each copy. Other options include switchblade keys, key fobs, and remote keys. These keys can be more advanced and include features such as alarm activation via remote. They may cost more than traditional keys.
It's a good idea to create an extra car key in case you have an older vehicle. This will save you the cost of replacing it with newer vehicles. If you lose your keys you should replace it as soon as possible. This will ensure that you are able to access your car, and prevent theft or other issues.
A spare car key is a good investment for any driver. A spare key can be very useful in the event that you lose your keys, or if it gets damaged. The cost of a spare car key can differ depending on the brand and model of the vehicle, and it is important to consider these aspects when choosing the right service provider.
In spare keys for cars to the key itself, the majority of modern cars come with an electronic chip inside the head of the key. This chip sends an electronic signal to the car's security system that will verify the key and permit drivers to unlock or start their car. These chips can be very expensive to replace if damaged or lost, and may require assistance from a dealership or locksmith.
Newer Vehicles
For those old enough to remember, it was extremely easy to lose a car key and not lose much money. You could simply take the code for your key from the owner's manual to a hardware or locksmith store and get a new one cut at an affordable price. Nowadays things are more complicated. Modern cars have keys with chips that are built-in, and require dealer knowledge to duplicate. page are also available and laser cuts, as well 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 a location near you that will service your vehicle.