How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is essential to ensure peace of mind should you lose or damage your primary key. However, it can be expensive.
The cost varies depending on the location you've had the spare key made, whether at the dealership or through a locksmith. The cost also varies depending on the type of key you need.
Dealerships
The dealership is one of the most popular ways to obtain a replacement for a key. When you request a replacement key, the dealer might request information such as vehicle model and make, VIN, as well as the year. The dealer may also require evidence of ownership or identification to ensure that the key is given to its rightful owner. Depending on the type of key, this process can be relatively efficient and cost-effective, however it is crucial to remember that dealership services tend to be more expensive than other options.
You can also 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 included in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer website. However, this process is generally slower and can be more expensive than contacting the locksmith.
It is possible to have an old key replaced by a locksmith local to you at a cost of only a couple of dollars. If your key is one that is electronic or has a transponder chip, the price is substantially higher. It will likely run you about $50 to $200 or more.
In the majority of cases, it is best to have a spare car key before you lose your original. This way you won't be without a car and will have a backup plan in the event in an emergency. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind and the ability to drive whenever you'd like.
While getting a new car key may be a pain but it's definitely worth the cost in case you lose your original or have it stolen. Consult with your local automaker or locksmith before deciding on a solution. You can also contact reputable key replacement companies and provide them with the details about your vehicle in order to get a quote. This will help you avoid any unexpected expenses and keep your budget in check.
Locksmiths
If you've ever had to get locked out of your car, a spare key may come in handy. It is important to keep the key in a safe place, however, as you don't want to lose the key or have it stolen. Depending on the model and make of your car it could cost you anywhere from $50-$200 to have a spare key created. You can get a new car key from a number of sources, including a dealership or auto-locksmith, as well as roadside assistance.
The dealer where you bought your car is the best place to get 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 secure method to ensure you have a functioning key in the event that you lose the original key.
Many hardware stores and locksmiths will be able to make a car key for you, but the price may differ. A basic car key that doesn't have a transponder can be made for under $10. However, a key fob and smart key are more expensive.
If you're having a spare car key, make sure you use a trustworthy locksmith. They must pass an DBS check, be vetted, and be certified to perform this kind of work. They should be covered in case anything goes wrong during the duplication process.
Replacing a lost car key can be costly however it is worth it to have a spare key in case you lose it or lock it in the car. It is always safer to be prepared than to try to pry your door open using an old coat hanger and risk damaging your car. Make an extra key for your vehicle and store it in a safe place. You'll be grateful that you did it if you require it in the future!
Older vehicles
Losing a car key can be a major inconvenience. It can lead to expensive repair bills and a loss of time, especially if are not able to access your vehicle. You can avoid all of these issues if you own an additional car key. Having a spare key can also save you a lot of dollars in the end. But how much will a spare car key cost? The price will depend on a number of factors, such as the model and make of the car and the type of key.
There are many kinds of keys for cars, and some are more complicated than others. The most commonly used is a standard key that is used to lock and unlock doors. They are simple to create, and usually only cost between $10 and $15 per copy. Other options include key fobs, remote keys, and switchblade keys. These can be more advanced and come with features such as alarm activation via remote. However, they may be more expensive than traditional keys.
If you have an older vehicle it's a good idea to have a spare key made prior to losing the original. You can avoid the high costs of replacing a vehicle that is more modern. If you lose your keys it is best to replace it as soon as you can. This will allow you access to your vehicle and avoid theft.
A spare key for your car is a wise investment for any driver. A spare key can be very useful in the event you lose your key, or if it gets damaged. The cost of a replacement key is contingent on the model and make of the vehicle. It is important to take these factors into consideration when choosing the right service.
In addition to the key itself most modern cars come with an electronic chip inside the head of the key. The chip sends a signal to the car's security system that can confirm that the key is legitimate and permits drivers to unlock or start the vehicle. The chips can be extremely costly to replace if damaged or lost and may require assistance from locksmiths or dealers.
spare key shop near me
For those old enough to recall, it was once quite easy to lose a car key and not lose a lot of money. You could take the key code from the owner's manual to the local hardware store or locksmith and get a replacement key cut at a very affordable price. Today things are more complicated. Modern cars have keys with chips that are built-in, and require dealer knowledge 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 locate a location near you that services your vehicle.