How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is crucial to ensure peace of mind should you lose or damage your primary key. It could be costly.
The cost varies depending on the location you've had the spare key made, whether it is at the dealership or through a locksmith. The cost also differs based on the kind of key you require.
Dealerships
The dealership is one of the most common ways to obtain a replacement key. When you request a replacement key, the dealer might ask for details such as the vehicle's model and make, VIN, and year. The dealer may request documents of ownership or identification to ensure that the key is issued to its rightful owner. This process is usually quick and cost-effective based on the type of keys used, however, dealership services are typically more expensive.
Alternately, you can buy a generic spare car key from an auto repair shop or locksmith and program it yourself. This is a procedure that many automakers allow drivers to do, and the steps are usually in the owner's guide or on the manufacturer website. This process may be slower and more expensive than calling a locksmith.
If make spare car key near me have a conventional metal key, you can generally have it replaced by an area locksmith for few dollars. If your key is one that is electronic or has a transponder chip, however, the cost will be significantly higher. Expect to be charged between $50 and $200.
It is recommended to make a duplicate of your car key before losing the original. You won't get stuck and you'll have an additional key in the event of an accident. It is a small price to pay for peace of mind and the freedom to drive whenever you'd like.
While purchasing a new key isn't easy, it is definitely worth the expense in case you lose your original one or have it stolen. If you are worried about the cost of having a spare car key talk to your local locksmith or automaker before deciding on a particular service. You can also reach out to reliable key replacement firms and provide them with information about your vehicle to receive a quote. This can help you avoid unexpected costs and keep your budget in the right place.
Locksmiths
A spare car key can be a lifesaver if you ever get locked out of your car. It is essential to keep the key in a safe place, but you do not want to lose it or have it stolen. A spare key could cost between $50 and $200, depending on the model and brand of your vehicle. There are several ways to obtain a replacement car key, including the dealership, an auto locksmith, and roadside assistance.
The dealership you bought your vehicle is the ideal location to purchase an extra key. 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 way to have a working key in the event that you lose your original key.
Many locksmiths and hardware stores can make keys for your car however, the cost may differ. A basic car key with transponder chips will typically be made for less than $10, however, a key fob or smart key can be much more expensive.
If you're having a spare car key ensure that you choose a reputable locksmith. They must pass an DBS check, be vetted, and be licensed to perform this kind of work. They should also have insurance that covers them in the event something goes wrong during the key duplication process.
It's costly to replace the key that was lost but it's worthwhile to have one in the event of losing it or put it in the car. It is always safer to be prepared, rather than try to pry your door open with an old coat hanger and risk damaging the car. So, make the effort to get an extra car key and keep it in a safe location. You'll be grateful that you did should you need it!
Older cars
It can be a major inconvenience to lose a car key. It can result in costly repair bills and lost time, especially if you are unable to get into your vehicle. You can avoid all these issues if you own an additional car key. Having a spare key can also save you a significant amount of money in the long run. What is the cost of an extra key for an automobile cost? There are a few variables that could affect the price such as the make and model of the vehicle as well as the kind of key.
There are many different types of keys for cars, with some more complicated than others. The most commonly used kind of key is the standard key, which is used to lock and unlock doors. They are easy to make, and usually only cost between $10 and $15 for each copy. Other options include key fobs, remote keys and switchblade keys. They are more sophisticated, and include features like alarm activation and remote start. They can be more costly than the traditional keys.
If make spare key near me own an older car, it's an ideal idea to have a spare key made prior to losing the original. This will save you the high replacement costs of newer vehicles. If you do lose your key, it's best to replace it immediately. This will ensure you are able to access your car and also prevent theft or other issues.
A spare key for your car is a wise investment for any driver. A spare key can be extremely useful if you lose or damage your original. The cost of a replacement car key varies depending 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 the majority of modern vehicles include an electronic chip in the head of the key. The chip sends signals to the car's security system, which can verify that the key is valid and allows the driver to unlock or start the vehicle. These chips are costly to replace if lost or damaged, and may require assistance from a dealership or locksmith.
Newer vehicles
For those of us old enough to recall, it was once quite easy to lose a car key and not have to pay many dollars. You could take the code from the owner’s manual to the hardware store or locksmith and have a replacement key cut at a very affordable price. It's 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.
Ace Hardware offers up to 30% off when you buy your replacement keys on the internet. You can also use the convenient store locator to locate an Ace Hardware store near you that services your vehicle.