How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
Having a spare car key is important for peace of mind in the event you lose or break your primary key. It can be costly.
The cost will differ based on whether you buy the spare key from a dealer or locksmith. The cost is also contingent on the type of key you need.
Dealerships
One of the primary avenues to get a replacement key is through a dealer. Typically, the dealer will request information such as the vehicle's model and make, year, and VIN when they request a new key. Additionally, the dealer may ask for documents of ownership and identification to ensure that the replacement key is issued to the correct owner. This process can be quick and cost-effective depending on the type of keys, however, dealer services are generally more expensive.
Alternately, you can buy a generic spare car key from a hardware store or locksmith and program it yourself. This is something that many automakers permit drivers to do, and the instructions are usually included in the owner's guide or on the manufacturer website. However, this process is generally more time-consuming and could be more expensive than contacting a locksmith.
You can usually get the replacement of a key made of metal by a local locksmith at a cost of only a couple of dollars. If your key is an electronic fob or transponder chip, the price is substantially more expensive. Expect to be charged between $50 and $200.
It is usually best to create a duplicate car key prior to losing the original. You won't be stuck and you'll have an additional key in the event of an accident. It's a small cost to be paid for peace of mind, and the freedom to drive the car whenever you want.
It can be a challenge to find an additional key for your car however it's worth it if you lose your original stolen. If you are concerned about the expense of an extra car key, speak to your local locksmith or automaker before deciding on a specific service. You can also contact reputable key replacement companies and provide them with the details about your vehicle in order to receive a quote. This will allow you to avoid any unexpected expenses and keep your budget under control.
Locksmiths
If you've ever had to get locked out of your vehicle A spare key could help. Keep the spare key in a secure place, as you don't want it to get lost or stolen. A spare key can cost between $50 and $200, depending on the model and make of your car. There are a few ways to obtain an alternative car key, such as the dealership, auto locksmith, and roadside assistance.
The dealer where you bought your vehicle is the best source of an extra key. The dealer will have a blank key and can program it to work with your vehicle. This is the most expensive, however, it's the only way to be sure that you have a functional key replacement in the event you lose your original.
G28 will vary, but most locksmiths and hardware stores can make an auto key. A basic car key that does not have a transponder chip can usually be made for less than $10, however, a key fob or smart key could be more expensive.
Whenever you are getting a spare car key be sure to use a reliable locksmith. They should be DBS checked and vetted and certified to perform the work. They should be insured in case anything goes wrong during the process of duplication.
It can be expensive to replace keys that are lost, but it's worth it to have one in the event of losing it or lock it inside the car. It is always safer to be prepared than to attempt to open your door open with an old coat hanger and risk damaging your car. Make a spare key for your car and store it in a secure location. You'll be happy you did it if you require it in the future!
Older Vehicles
The loss of a car key could 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 problems by having an extra car key. A spare key will also save you money in the end. But how much does an extra car key cost? There are several factors that affect the cost such as the make and model of the vehicle as well as the kind of key.
There are many kinds of keys for cars and some are more complex than others. The most common is a standard key that can be used to lock and unlock doors. They are simple to create and generally cost $10 - $15 per copy. Other options include key fobs remote keys and switchblade keys. These can be more advanced and include features like remote start and alarm activation. However, they can be more expensive than conventional keys.
If you own an older car, it's an ideal idea to make a spare key before you lose the original key. This will save you the high replacement costs of a newer vehicle. If you do lose your key, it is recommended to replace it as soon as you can. This will ensure that you are able to access your car and avoid theft or other problems.
A spare car key is an excellent investment for any driver. Having a spare can be extremely beneficial in the event that you lose your key, or it is damaged. The cost of a spare car key can differ based on the make and model of the vehicle, and it is essential to consider these aspects when selecting the right service provider.
In addition to the key itself, the majority of modern vehicles have an electronic chip in the head of the key. This chip transmits an electronic signal to the car's security system that can confirm that the key is valid and allows drivers to unlock or start their vehicle. These chips are costly to replace if damaged or lost and could require the assistance of locksmiths or dealers.
Newer vehicles
For those who are old enough to remember, it used to be very easy to lose your car key without loosing a lot of cash. You could simply take the key's code from the owner's manual to a locksmith or hardware store and have a new one cut for an affordable price. Nowadays, things are a little more complicated. The latest cars have keys that have chips in them, which require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. There are also key fobs and laser cuts, as well as switchblade keys that all cost more than a mechanical key.
There's no reason not to save up to 30% at Ace Hardware when you purchase your key replacements online and use their convenient store locator tool to pinpoint the closest location that services your vehicle.