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. However, it can be expensive.
The cost will vary based on the location you've had the spare key made, whether at an auto dealer or through an locksmith. The cost also differs based on the kind of key you require.
Dealerships
One of the most common methods to obtain a replacement car key is through the dealer. Typically, dealers ask for information like the vehicle's make and model year, as well as the VIN when requesting a new key. Additionally, the dealer may ask for proof of ownership and identification to ensure that the new key is issued to the owner who is legally entitled to it. This process can be quick and cost-effective, depending on the type of keys, however, dealership services are typically more expensive.
Alternately, you can buy a generic spare car key at the hardware store or locksmith and program it yourself. This is a procedure that many automakers allow drivers to do, and the directions are usually in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer website. However, this process is usually slower and may be more costly than contacting the locksmith.
It is common to get the replacement of a key made of metal by a local locksmith at a cost of only a few dollars. The cost is more expensive if your key is a transponder, or electronic fob. It is likely to cost between $50 and $200 or more.
In most cases, it is best to have a spare car key prior to losing your original. This way you won't be without a car and will have a backup in the event in an emergency. It's a small cost to pay for peace of mind and the ability to drive your car at any time you want.
While buying a new car key may be a pain, it is definitely worth the expense in case you lose your original one or get it stolen. If you're worried about the cost of an extra car key, speak to your local locksmith or automaker before deciding on a particular service. You can also contact reliable key replacement companies and provide them with details regarding your vehicle to get a quote. g28carkeys will help you avoid any unexpected expenses and keep your budget under control.
Locksmiths
A spare car key could be a lifesaver in the event that you ever get locked out of your car. It is essential to keep the key in a secure location, however, since you don't want to lose it or have it stolen. Depending on the make and model of your car it could cost you anywhere from $50 to $200 to have an extra key made. There are a few ways to obtain an extra car key, including the dealership, an auto locksmith, or roadside assistance.
The best way to acquire a spare car key is to go to the dealership where you bought your car. 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 reliable method of having a functioning key in case you lose the original key.
Many hardware stores and locksmiths are able to create a car key for you however the cost could differ. A basic car key that doesn't contain a transponder may be made for less than $10. However, a key fob and smart key are more expensive.
Whenever you are getting a spare car key made ensure that you choose a trustworthy locksmith. They should have a DBS check, be vetted, and be accredited to do this type of work. They should also carry insurance which covers them in the event that something goes wrong during the key duplication process.
Replacing a lost car keys can be costly, but it is worth the investment to have a spare in case you lose it or lock it in your car. It is always better to be prepared, rather than attempt to pry your door open using an old coat hanger and risk damaging the car. Take the time to make a spare key for your car and store it safely. You'll be thankful you did if you ever need it!
Older vehicles
Losing your car keys can be a major inconvenience. It can result in costly repair bills and lost time, especially if cannot access your vehicle. If you have a spare car key you can avoid these issues altogether. The possession of a spare key could also save you a significant amount of money in the long term. What does an extra key for an automobile cost? The price will depend on several aspects, including the model and make of the car and the type key.
There are many different types of keys for cars, some more intricate than others. The most popular is a traditional key that is used to lock and unlock the doors. These keys are simple to make and cost between $10 and $15 per copy. Other alternatives include switchblade keys, remote keys and key fobs. These can be more advanced and come with features such as alarm activation and remote start. They can be more costly than conventional keys.
If you own an older car, it's a good idea to have a spare key made before losing the original one. This will help you avoid the costly replacement costs associated with a newer vehicle. If you lose your keys it is best to replace it as soon as possible. This will ensure that you're capable of accessing your car, and prevent theft or other issues.
A spare car key is a good 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 the spare car key may vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, and it is important to consider these factors when choosing the right service provider.
Modern cars are equipped with an electronic chip that is embedded in the head of the keys. This chip sends signals to a security system in the car which can verify the keys and allow the driver to open or start their car. These chips can be very costly to replace if they are damaged or lost and could require the assistance of locksmiths or dealers.
Newer vehicles
For those of us old enough to remember, it was quite easy to lose the car key and not have to pay a lot of money. You could take the key code from the owner's manual to a hardware or locksmith store to have a new one cut at a very reasonable price. Things are a bit more complicated in the present. Keys in newer cars are equipped with chips, and they require dealer knowledge to duplicate. And then there are key fobs, laser cut, and even switchblade keys all of which cost more than a traditional mechanical key.
Fortunately, you can still save up to 30% at Ace Hardware when you purchase your replacement keys online. You can also utilize their store locator tool to find the nearest location to service your vehicle.