How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare key for your car is vital to have peace of mind in the event that you lose or damage your primary key. It could be costly.
The cost varies depending on where you have the spare key made , whether at a dealership or through an locksmith. The cost also varies based on the type of key you need.
Dealerships
One of the most common methods to get a replacement key is through the dealership. If you are requesting a replacement for your key, the dealer may require details like the car's model and make, as well as the VIN, and the year. The dealer might request proof of ownership or identification to ensure that the key is issued to the rightful owner. Depending on the type of key, this process can be fairly quick and cost-effective, but it is important to remember that dealership services are generally more expensive than other options.
Alternately, you can buy a generic spare car key from a hardware store or locksmith and program it yourself. This is something that a lot of automakers allow drivers to do, and the steps are usually in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer website. However, this method is generally more time-consuming and could be more expensive than contacting a locksmith.
If you have a conventional metal key, you can usually replace it at a local locksmith for a couple of dollars. If your key is one that is electronic or has a transponder chip, the price will be significantly higher. Expect to spend between $50 and $200.
It is recommended to create a duplicate car key before losing the original. You won't be stuck, and you'll have an extra key in the event of an accident. It's a small price to be paid for peace of mind and the freedom to drive your car whenever you want.
It may be difficult to find an additional key for your vehicle but it's worth it in the event that you lose the original key stolen. If you are worried about the expense of an extra car key, talk to your local locksmith or automaker before you decide on a particular service. You can also contact reliable key replacement firms and provide them with information about your vehicle to receive a quote. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget under control.
Locksmiths
If you've ever had to get locked out of your vehicle, a spare key can help. Keep the spare key in a secure location as you don't want it to get lost or stolen. A spare key can cost between $50 and $200 depending on the make and model of your car. There are a variety of options to obtain a replacement car key, such as the dealership, an auto locksmith, and roadside assistance.
The best method to obtain a spare car key is at the dealership where you purchased your car. 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, however, it's the only way to ensure that you have a functioning key replacement in the event that you lose your original.
The price will vary, but most hardware stores and locksmiths can make you an auto key. A basic car key with transponder chips will typically be made for less than $10, however, a key fob or smart key could be more costly.
If you're looking to get a spare car key made, make sure you use a reputable locksmith. They must pass an DBS check, be vetted, and be certified to perform this kind of work. They should be covered in the event that something goes wrong during the process of duplication.
It can be expensive to replace keys that are lost however it's worth it to have one in the event that you lose it, or keep it locked inside the car. It is better to be prepared rather than risking damaging your car by trying to pry the door open using hangers. Take the time to make a spare key for your car and keep it safely. You'll be grateful you did if you ever need it!
Older Vehicles
Losing your car keys can be a major inconvenience. It can lead to expensive 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 spare car key. Having a spare key can also save you a lot of money in the long term. But how much will an extra car key cost? The cost of a key will depend on a number of aspects, including the model and make of the vehicle and the type of key.
There are many kinds of keys for cars, and some are more complicated than others. The most commonly used kind of key is the standard key, which can be used to lock and unlock doors. These are simple to make and generally cost between $10 and $15 per copy. Other options include switchblade keys key fobs and remote keys. They are more sophisticated, and may include features like alarm activation and remote start. They are more expensive than traditional keys.
If you have an older vehicle, it is a good idea to have a spare key created before losing the original one. This will help you avoid the cost of replacing it with newer vehicles. However, if you do lose the key, it's best to have it replaced immediately. This will ensure that you are able to access your car, and prevent theft or other issues.
A spare key for your car is a smart investment for any driver. A spare key can be extremely beneficial in the event that you lose your key or if it gets damaged. The cost of a replacement car key varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle. It is crucial to take these factors into consideration when selecting the right provider.
Most modern cars also have an electronic chip embedded inside the head of the keys. This chip emits a signal to the security system of the car that can confirm that the key is genuine and allows drivers to unlock or start their 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 who are old enough to remember it in the past, it was extremely easy to lose your car keys without losing a lot of cash. You could take the code from the owner's manual to the hardware store or locksmith and have the replacement key cut for an affordable cost. Nowadays things are a bit more complicated. Modern cars have keys with chips that are built-in, and require the knowledge of a dealer to duplicate. There are also key fobs and laser cuts as well as switchblade keys that all cost more than the 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 find an Ace Hardware store near you that will service your vehicle.