How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare key for your car is vital to have peace of mind in the event that you lose or damage your primary key. It could be costly.
The cost will vary depending on whether you buy the spare key from a retailer or a locksmith. The cost also varies depending on the type of key you need.
Dealerships
One of the most common methods to get a replacement key is through a dealership. If you are requesting a replacement for your key, the dealer might ask for details like the car's model and make, as well as the VIN, and year. In addition, the dealer might request evidence of ownership and proof of identity to ensure that the replacement key is given to the correct owner. This process is usually quick and cost-effective depending on the type of keys used, however, dealership services are typically more expensive.
Read A lot more can purchase a generic spare key at a hardware shop, locksmith, or online and program it yourself. Most automakers permit drivers to do this, and it is typically described in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website. However, this process is generally slower and can be more expensive than calling the locksmith.
It is possible to have an old key replaced by a local locksmith at a cost of a couple of dollars. If your key is an electronic fob or transponder chip, the price is substantially higher. You can expect to be charged between $50 and $200.
It is recommended to make a duplicate car key before you lose the original. You won't be stuck, and you'll have an extra key in the event of an accident. It's a small cost to pay for peace of mind, and the freedom to drive your vehicle whenever you'd like.
While buying a new car key may be a pain however, it's worth the expense in case you ever lose your original or get it stolen. If you're worried about the cost of an extra car key, talk to your local locksmith or automaker before you decide on a particular service. You can also research reliable key replacement companies and provide them with details about your vehicle to see whether they are able to provide you with a quote for the service. This will help you avoid any unexpected expenses and keep your budget in check.
Locksmiths
If you've ever had to get locked out of your vehicle, a spare key can help. It is important to keep the key in a secure location, however, since you don't want to lose the key or have it stolen. A spare key can cost between $50 and $200 depending on the model and brand of your vehicle. You can get a new car key from a variety of sources, including a dealer or auto-locksmith, as well as roadside assistance.
The best method to obtain an extra car key is to go to the dealership where you purchased your vehicle. The dealer will have a blank key, and can program it to work with your car. This is the most expensive option however it is the most surefire method to ensure you have a functioning key in the event that you lose your original one.
The cost will vary, but most locksmiths and hardware stores will make you car keys. A basic car key without a transponder chip can usually be made for less than $10 while a key fob, or smart key can be much more expensive.
If you need an extra key for your car, only use an auto locksmith that is reputable. They should be DBS checked and vetted and certified to perform work of this type. They should be covered in the event of anything going wrong during the duplication process.
Replacing a lost car key is costly however it's worth the investment to have a spare in the event that you lose yours, or keep it locked in the car. It is always better to be prepared than to try to pry your door open with a coat hanger and risk damaging your car. So, make the effort to get a spare car key made and store it in a safe place. You'll be grateful you did it if you need it one day!
Older vehicles
The loss of a car key could be a major inconvenience. It can lead to expensive repair bills and a loss of time, especially if you are not able to access your vehicle. If you have an extra car key however, you can prevent these problems altogether. A spare key can also save you lots of money in the long term. How much does a spare key for a car cost? The cost will depend on many factors, such as the model and make of the car and the type of key.
There are many kinds of keys for cars, and some are more complicated than others. The most common kind of key is the standard key, which is used both to lock and unlock doors. They are simple to create and generally cost between $10 and $15 per copy. Other alternatives include switchblade keys, remote keys and key fobs. These keys can be more advanced and come with features such as alarm activation and remote start. However, they can be more expensive than traditional keys.
If you own an older car, it's recommended to make a spare key before you lose the original key. You will avoid the costly costs of replacing a vehicle that is more modern. If you lose your key, it's best to replace it as soon as you can. This will ensure you are in a position to gain access to your vehicle and avoid theft or other issues.
A spare key for your car is a wise investment for any driver. A spare key can be very useful in the event that you lose or damage your original. The cost of a spare car key can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, so it is important to consider these factors when choosing a service provider.
In addition to the key itself the majority of modern vehicles come with an electronic chip inside the head of the key. The chip sends a signal to the security system of the car which confirms that the key is legitimate and allows the driver to unlock or start the vehicle. These chips are costly to replace if they are damaged or lost and may require the help of a dealership or locksmith.
Newer Vehicles
For those of us who are old enough to remember the past, it was very easy to lose your car key without losing a lot of money. You could take the code from the owner's manual to a hardware store or locksmith and have a replacement key cut at a very affordable price. It's a bit more complicated in the present. The latest cars have keys that have chips in them, which require dealer knowledge to duplicate. Then there are key fobs, laser cut, and even switchblade keys all of which cost a lot more than the traditional mechanical key.
Fortunately, you can still save up to 30 percent at Ace Hardware when you purchase the replacement keys online and use their convenient store locator tool to find the nearest location that can service your vehicle.