How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare key for your car is crucial to ensure peace of mind in the event that you lose or damage your primary key. It can be expensive.
The cost will differ based on whether you get the spare key from a dealer or a locksmith. The cost also varies depending on the kind of key you require.
Dealerships
One of the most popular options to get a replacement key is through the dealer. If you are requesting a replacement for your key, the dealer might ask for information such as vehicle make and model, VIN, and year. Additionally, the dealer could request proof of ownership and identification to ensure that the replacement key is issued to the correct owner. Depending on the type of key, this process can be relatively efficient and cost-effective, however it is important to remember that dealership services are typically more expensive than other alternatives.
You can also purchase a generic spare car key at an auto repair shop or locksmith and program it yourself. Many automakers will allow drivers to do this, and it is typically covered in the owner's manual or on the website of the manufacturer. This process can be more time-consuming and costly than calling a locksmith.
If you have a traditional metal key, you can usually have it replaced by the local locksmith for a couple of dollars. If your key is one that is electronic or has a transponder chip, however the price will be substantially more expensive. You can expect to be charged between $50 and $200.
It is usually best to create a duplicate car key prior to losing the original. So you won't end up stranded and you will have a backup in case of an emergency. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind and the freedom to drive whenever you like.
While getting a new car key may be a pain but it's definitely worth the expense in case you lose your original or get it stolen. If you are concerned about the expense of a spare car key, talk to your local locksmith or automaker before you decide on a specific service. You can also reach out to reputable key replacement companies and provide them with information about your vehicle in order to receive a quote. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget in check.
Locksmiths
If you've ever been locked out of your vehicle, a spare key can be useful. It is crucial to keep the key in a safe place, however, as you don't want to lose it or have it stolen. Depending on the model and make of your vehicle it could cost you anywhere from $50 to $200 to have a spare key made. You can get a new car key from a number of sources, including a dealership or an auto-locksmith. roadside assistance.
The best way to get a spare car key is at the dealership where you purchased your car. The dealer will have the right key blank and will be in a position to program it so that it works with your vehicle. This is the most expensive option but it's the most reliable way to have a working key in the event that you lose the original key.
The price will vary, but many locksmiths and hardware stores will create an auto key. A basic car key without a transponder chip can usually be made for less than $10 while a key fob, or smart key may be more costly.
If you're having a spare car key, make sure you use a reputable locksmith. They must be DBS verified and checked, and accredited to carry out work of this type. They should be covered in the event of anything going wrong during the process of duplication.
It can be expensive to replace keys that are lost however it's worth it to have a spare in the event that you lose it, or put it in the car. It is always safer to be prepared than to attempt to pry your door open with a coat hanger and risk damaging your car. So, make the effort to have an extra car key and keep it in a safe place. You'll be grateful that you did it in the event that you need it one day!
Older vehicles
Losing a car key can be a major inconvenience. This could result in costly repair costs and lost work time, especially if your vehicle isn't accessible. If you have a spare car key however, you can prevent these problems altogether. A spare key will save you money in the end. What is the cost of a spare key for the car cost? There are a few variables that could affect the price that can affect the price, such as the model and make of the vehicle as well as the kind of key.
There are many kinds of keys for cars and some are more complicated than others. The most popular is a standard key that is used to lock and unlock the doors. These are simple to make and generally cost $10 - $15 per copy. Other alternatives include switchblade keys, remote keys and key fobs. These keys can be more advanced and include features like alarm activation and remote start. However, they can be more expensive than traditional keys.
If you own an older vehicle, it is a good idea to have a spare key made prior to losing the original. This will help you avoid the cost of replacing it with a newer vehicle. However, if you do lose the key, it is recommended to have it replaced 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. A spare key can be very useful if you have to replace or damage your original. The cost of a replacement car key is contingent on the make and model of the car. It is important to take these aspects into consideration when selecting the best service.
Modern cars are equipped with an electronic chip embedded in the head of keys. The chip transmits signals to a car's security system that can verify the key and allow drivers 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 a dealership or locksmith.
Newer Vehicles
For those of us old enough to recall, it was once extremely easy to lose keys to cars and not be out much money. You could take the code from the owner’s manual to a hardware store or locksmith and get an alternative key cut at a very affordable price. Nowadays, things are a little more complicated. Newer cars have keys with chips in them, which require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. There are also key fobs, laser cuts, and even switchblade keys all of which cost a lot 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 store locator to find a location near you that can service your vehicle.