How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is essential to ensure peace of mind in the event that you lose or damage your primary key. It could be costly.
The cost will differ based on whether you get the spare key from a dealer or a locksmith. The cost also differs based on the kind of key you require.
Dealerships
The dealership is among the most popular ways to obtain a replacement key. When you request a replacement key, the dealer could require details like the car's model and make, VIN, and year. Additionally, the dealer may ask for evidence of ownership and proof of identity to ensure that the replacement key is issued to the owner who is legally entitled to it. Based on the type of key, this procedure can be relatively quick and cost-effective, but it is also important to remember that dealership services are typically more expensive than other options.
You can also purchase a standard spare car key from an auto repair shop or locksmith and program it yourself. Many automakers will allow drivers to do this, and it's usually described in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website. This process can be more time-consuming and costly than calling a locksmith.
If you own a traditional metal key, you are able to have it replaced by a local locksmith for a few dollars. If your key is one that is electronic or has a transponder chip, however the price will be substantially higher. Expect to spend between $50 and $200.
In most instances, it is recommended to have a spare car key made before you lose your original. You won't be stuck and you'll have an additional key in the event of an accident. It's a small price to pay to have peace of mind and the freedom to drive the car whenever you want.
It may be difficult to get an additional key for your car, but it's worth it if you lose the original key stolen. Consult with your local automaker or locksmith before deciding on a solution. You can also reach out to reliable key replacement firms and provide them with details about your vehicle to receive a quote. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs and help keep your budget in control.
Locksmiths
A spare car key could be life-saving if you ever find yourself locked out of your car. Keep the spare key in a secure location as you don't want it to be lost or stolen. A spare key can cost between $50 and $200 depending on the model and make of your vehicle. You can purchase a new car key from a variety of sources, including a dealership or auto-locksmith, as well as roadside assistance.
The dealership where you purchased your vehicle is the ideal source of an extra key. The dealer will have the correct key blank and will be able to program it so that it works with your vehicle. This is the most expensive option, but the only way to ensure that you have a functioning key replacement in the event you lose the original.
The cost can vary, but many locksmiths and hardware stores will create car keys. A basic car key that does not have a transponder can be made for less than $10. However keys with fobs and smart keys are more expensive.
When you need an extra key for your car, only use a reputable auto locksmith. They should pass completed a DBS check and be vetted. They must also be certified to perform this kind of work. They should also carry insurance that covers them in case something goes wrong during the process of key duplication.
It's expensive to replace a lost key, but it's worth it to have one in case you lose it or keep it locked inside the car. It is always better to be prepared, rather than attempt to pry your door open with an old coat hanger and risk damaging the car. Therefore, make sure to have an extra car key and keep it in a safe location. You'll be grateful that you did should you require it!
Older vehicles
Losing a car key can 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. You can avoid all of these problems if you have an spare car key. The possession of a spare key could also save you a lot of money in the long term. But how much will a spare car key cost? The price can be affected by a number of aspects, including the model and make of the vehicle and the type key.
There are many different types of keys for cars, with some more intricate than others. The most common is a traditional key that is used to lock and unlock doors. These are easy to create and cost between $10 and $15 for each copy. Other options include key fobs remote keys, and switchblade keys. These keys can be more advanced and include features like alarm activation via remote. They are more expensive than conventional keys.
If you have an older vehicle it's recommended to make a spare key before losing the original one. You will avoid the costly cost of replacing a car that is more modern. If you lose your key you should replace it as soon as you can. This will ensure that you're in a position to gain access to your vehicle and also prevent theft or other problems.
A spare car key is a good investment for any driver. A spare key can be extremely useful if you have to replace or damage your original. The cost of the spare car key may differ depending on the brand and model of the vehicle, and it is crucial to take into consideration these aspects when choosing a service provider.
Most modern cars also have an electronic chip in the head of keys. This chip transmits a signal to the car's security system, which can verify that the key is genuine and allows the driver to unlock or start their vehicle. These chips can be very expensive to replace if damaged or lost and could require the help of a dealership or locksmith.
Newer Vehicles
For those old enough to remember, it was quite easy to lose a car key and not have to pay much money. You could simply take the key code from the owner's manual to a locksmith or hardware store and have an alternative cut at a very reasonable price. Today, things are a little more complicated. make a spare car key near me 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 a traditional mechanical key.
Ace Hardware offers up to 30% off when you buy your replacement keys online. You can also use the convenient store locator to find an Ace Hardware store near you that services your vehicle.