How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is vital to have peace of mind should you lose or damage your primary key. It could be costly.
The cost varies depending on the location you've had the spare key made, whether at an auto dealer or through the locksmith. The cost varies based on the kind of key you require.
Dealerships
One of the most popular options to obtain a replacement car key is through the dealership. Typically, dealers require details such as the car's make and model, year, and VIN when requesting a new key. The dealer might also ask for evidence of ownership or identification to make sure that the key is given to the correct owner. This process can be quick and cost-effective based on the type of keys, however, dealership services are typically more expensive.
You can also buy a generic spare car key from the hardware store or locksmith and program it yourself. A lot of automakers allow drivers to do this, and it is typically covered in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website. This process can be slower and more expensive than calling a locksmith.
It is common to get an old key replaced by a locksmith local to you at a cost of only a few dollars. The cost is more expensive if your key is a transponder or electronic fob. Expect to be charged between $50 and $200.
In the majority of instances, it is recommended to have a spare car key prior to losing your original. You won't be stuck, and you'll have a backup key in case of an accident. It's a small cost to pay to have peace of mind and the freedom to drive the car whenever you'd like.
It may be difficult to find a new key for your car, but it's worth it if you lose or have your original key stolen. If you are concerned about the expense of an extra car key, talk to your local locksmith or automaker before deciding on a specific service. You can also contact reliable key replacement companies and provide them with the details about your vehicle to get a quote. This will allow you to avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget in check.
Locksmiths
If you've ever had to get locked out of your vehicle A spare key could be useful. It is important to keep the key in a safe location, however, since you do not want to lose it or have it stolen. Depending on the model and make of your car, it can cost between $50 and $200 to get a spare key created. You can obtain a replacement car key from a variety of sources, such as a dealership, an auto-locksmith, or roadside assistance.
The best way to acquire an extra car key is at the dealership that you bought your vehicle. 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 way to have a working key in the event that you lose your original key.
Many locksmiths and hardware stores are able to create keys for your car however, the cost may vary. A basic car key that does not have transponder chips can typically be made for less than $10 however, a key fob or smart key can be much more costly.
If you need a spare key for your car, only work with a reputable auto locksmith. They should be DBS checked 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 key duplication process.
It can be expensive to replace the key that was lost but it's worthwhile to have a spare in the event of losing it or keep it locked inside the car. get spare key made is always better to be prepared rather than attempt to open your door open with a coat hanger and risk damaging your car. So, take the time to get a spare car key made and store it in a safe place. You'll be glad that you did it in the event that you ever need it!
Older vehicles
It can be a major hassle to lose your car key. This could result in costly repair bills and lost work time, especially if your vehicle isn't accessible. If you have an extra car key however, you can avoid these issues completely. A spare key can save you money in the end. But how much does a spare car key cost? The cost will depend on many factors, such as the model and make of the vehicle and the type key.
There are a variety of keys for cars, and some are more intricate than others. The most commonly used is a standard key that is used to lock and unlock the doors. They are easy to make and typically cost $10 - $15 per copy. Other alternatives include switchblade keys, key fobs and remote keys. These keys can be more advanced and include features like 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 prior to losing the original. This will help you avoid the high replacement costs of newer vehicles. If you lose your key it is best to replace it as soon as possible. This will ensure you are able to access your car, and prevent theft or other problems.
A spare car key is an excellent investment for any driver. Having a spare can be very useful in the event you lose your keys, or if it gets damaged. The cost of an extra car key could differ depending on the brand and model of the vehicle. Hence, it is essential to consider these factors when choosing the right service provider.
In addition to the key itself the majority of modern cars have an electronic chip in the head of the key. The chip transmits a signal to a security system in the car which can verify the keys and allow drivers to open or start their vehicle. These chips are costly to replace if lost or damaged, and may require the help of locksmiths or dealers.
Newer vehicles
For those of us who are old enough to remember in the past, it was extremely easy to lose your car keys without losing a significant amount of cash. You could just take the key code from the owner's manual to a hardware or locksmith store to have a new one cut for an affordable price. The process is a little more complicated in the present. Keys in the latest cars are equipped with chips, and require dealer knowledge to duplicate. And then there are key fobs, laser cuts and even switchblade keys - all of which cost more than the traditional mechanical key.
Ace Hardware offers up to 30 percent off when you purchase your replacement keys on the internet. You can also use the store locator to locate the nearest location that will service your vehicle.