How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is essential to ensure peace of mind if you lose or damage your primary key. It can be costly.
The cost will vary based on where you've got the spare key made, whether it is at a dealership or through the locksmith. The cost is also contingent on the type of key you need.
Dealerships
The dealership is among the most common ways to obtain a replacement key. Typically, the dealer will ask for information like the vehicle's make and model, year, and VIN when requesting a replacement key. The dealer might also require proof of ownership or identification to make sure that the key is issued to its rightful owner. This process is usually quick and cost-effective depending on the type of keys used, but dealership services are usually more expensive.
Alternatively, you can purchase a standard spare car key at the hardware store or locksmith and program it yourself. This is something that a lot of automakers allow drivers to do, and the instructions are usually included in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer website. This procedure can be slower and more expensive than calling a locksmith.
It is common to get the replacement of a key made of metal by a locksmith in your area for only a couple of dollars. The price is higher if your key is a transponder, or electronic fob. It will likely run you between $50 and $200 or more.
In the majority of instances, it is recommended to have a spare car key made before you lose your original. That way, you won't be left in a bind and you'll have a backup in the event of an emergency. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind and the ability to drive your car whenever you want.
While purchasing a new key isn't easy however, it's worth the cost in case you ever lose your original one or get it stolen. Consult with your local locksmith or automaker before you decide on a service. You can also contact reliable key replacement firms and provide them with details about your vehicle to get a quote. This can help you avoid unexpected costs and keep your budget in check.
Locksmiths
If you've ever been locked out of your car, a spare key may come in handy. Keep the spare key in a safe place, as you don't want it to get lost or stolen. A spare key could cost between $50 and $200 depending on the make and model of your vehicle. You can obtain a replacement car key from a variety of sources, including a dealership or auto-locksmith, as well as roadside assistance.
The dealer where you bought your vehicle is the best location to purchase an extra key. The dealer will have the correct key blank and will be in a position to program it to work with your vehicle. This is the most expensive, however, it's the only way to ensure that you have a functioning replacement key in the event that you lose your original.
Many hardware stores and locksmiths are able to create a car key for you however the cost could vary. A basic car key without transponder chips can typically be made for less than $10 while a key fob or smart key can be much more expensive.
If you require an extra key for your vehicle, you should only work with an auto locksmith who is reliable. They must be DBS verified and checked, and licensed to perform the work. They should also be insured 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 worthwhile to have a spare in case you lose it or keep it locked inside the car. It is always better to be prepared rather than try to pry your door open using an old coat hanger and risk damaging the car. Take the time to make an extra key for your car and store it in a safe place. You'll be glad you did if you ever need it!
Older vehicles
Losing your car keys can be a huge hassle. It can result in expensive repair bills and a loss of time, particularly if you are unable to get into your vehicle. If you have a spare car key, however, you can avoid these problems altogether. A spare key can also save you lots of dollars in the end. But how much will an extra car key cost? The cost of a key is influenced by several factors, such as the model and make of the car and the type of key.
There are several types of keys for cars and some are more complicated than others. The most commonly used is a traditional key that is used to lock and unlock doors. These keys are simple to create and cost between $10 and $15 for each copy. G28 Car Keys include key fobs remote keys, and switchblade keys. They can be more sophisticated and include features like alarm activation via remote. However, they may be more expensive than traditional keys.
It's a good idea to make an extra car key if you own an older vehicle. This will help you avoid the cost of replacing it with newer vehicles. If you do lose the key, it is best to replace it immediately. This will ensure you are able to access your car, and prevent theft or other issues.
A spare car key is a wise investment for any driver. Having a spare can be extremely useful in the event you lose your key, or if it gets damaged. The cost of a spare car key can differ depending on the brand and model of the vehicle. Hence, it is important to consider these factors when choosing a service provider.
Most modern cars also have an electronic chip embedded in the head of keys. This chip transmits an electronic signal to the security system of the car, which can verify that the key is legitimate and allows the driver to unlock or start the vehicle. If these chips are damaged or destroyed they may be costly to replace and could require the assistance of an expert locksmith or a dealership.
Newer vehicles
For those of us old enough to remember, it was quite easy to lose a car key and not have to pay many dollars. You could take the code for your key from the owner's manual to a locksmith or hardware store and have a new one cut for a very reasonable price. The process is a little more complicated nowadays. Newer cars have keys with chips in them, which require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. And then there are keys 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 online. You can also use the convenient store locator to find the nearest location that services your vehicle.