How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is essential to ensure your safety in the event you lose or break your primary key. It can be costly.
The cost will vary depending on whether you buy the spare key from a dealer or a 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 a dealership. When you request a replacement key, the dealer might request information such as vehicle model and make, VIN, and year. Additionally, the dealer could require documents of ownership and identification to ensure that the replacement key is given to the correct owner. This procedure can be swift and cost-effective depending on the type of keys you require, but dealership services are usually more expensive.
You can also purchase a generic spare key from a hardware store, locksmith or online and program it yourself. This is something that a lot of automakers allow drivers to do, and the instructions are usually in the owner's guide or on the website of the manufacturer. This process may be slower and more expensive than calling a locksmith.
If you have a conventional metal key, you can generally replace it at a local locksmith for a couple of dollars. If your key is an electronic fob or transponder chip, however, the cost will be substantially higher. You can expect to pay between $50 and $200.
In the majority of instances, it is recommended to have a spare car key before you lose the 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 your vehicle whenever you want.
While getting a new car key isn't easy but it's definitely worth it in the event that you ever lose your original or have it stolen. If spare car keys are worried about the cost of having a spare car key speak to your local locksmith or automaker before you decide on a particular service. You can also look up reputable key replacement providers and send them a list of details about your vehicle to see whether they can provide you with a quote for the service. This can help you avoid unexpected costs and keep your budget in control.
Locksmiths
If you've ever had to get locked out of your vehicle, a spare key can be useful. Keep the spare key in a safe place as you do not want it to be lost or stolen. Depending on the model and make of your vehicle, it can cost $50-$200 to have an extra key made. There are several options to obtain an extra car key, which includes the dealership, an auto locksmith, and roadside assistance.
The best way to get a spare car key is at the dealership where you purchased your vehicle. The dealer will have the correct key blank and will be in a position to program it so that it works with your vehicle. This is the most expensive option, however, it's the only way to ensure that you have a functioning replacement key in the event you lose your original.
Many locksmiths and hardware stores will be able to make keys for your car however the cost could differ. A basic car key that doesn't contain a transponder may be made for under $10. However, a key fob and smart keys are more expensive.
If you need an extra key for your car, you should only use an auto locksmith that is reputable. They should have an DBS check, be vetted, and be licensed to perform this kind of work. They should also be insured that covers them in the event something goes wrong during the process of key duplication.
It's expensive to replace a lost key but it's worthwhile to have a spare in the event that you lose it, or put it in the car. It is always safer to be prepared, rather than attempt to open your door open with an old coat hanger and risk damaging your car. Therefore, make sure to get a spare car key made and store it in a safe location. You'll be glad that you did it if you need it one day!
Older Vehicles
It's a major inconvenience to lose a car key. It can result in costly repair costs and wasted time, particularly if you cannot access your vehicle. If you have an extra car key however, you can avoid these problems altogether. A spare key can save you money in the end. How much does a spare key for the car cost? The cost of a key can be affected by several aspects, including the model and make of the vehicle and the type of key.
There are various kinds of car keys, some more complex than others. The most common is a traditional key that can be used to lock and unlock doors. These keys are simple to make and cost between $10 and $15 per copy. Other options include switchblade keys, remote keys and key fobs. These are more advanced, and include features like alarm activation and remote start. They are more expensive than the traditional keys.
If you have an older vehicle it is an ideal idea to have a spare key created before losing the original one. It will save you the expensive cost of replacing a vehicle that is newer. If you lose your key, it's best to replace it as soon as you can. This will allow you access to your vehicle and avoid theft.
A spare car key is an excellent investment for any driver. The benefit of having a spare key is extremely useful in the event that you lose your key, or if it gets damaged. The cost of a replacement car key is contingent on the model and make of the vehicle. It is crucial to take these factors into consideration when choosing the right service.
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 will verify the key and allow the driver to unlock or start their vehicle. If these chips are damaged or lost they may be costly to replace and may require the assistance of an expert locksmith or a dealership.
Newer Vehicles
For those of us old enough to remember, it was once quite easy to lose the car key and not be out a lot of money. You could take the code for your key from the owner's manual to a locksmith or hardware store and get a new one cut at a reasonable cost. Nowadays, things are a little more complicated. Keys in the latest cars are equipped with chips, and require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. Then there are keys fobs, laser cuts, and even switchblade keys - all of which cost a lot more than the traditional mechanical key.
There's no reason not to save up to 30 percent at Ace Hardware when you purchase your key replacements online and use their convenient store locator tool to find the nearest location that can service your vehicle.