How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is crucial to ensure peace of mind if you lose or damage your primary key. It can be costly.
The cost will vary based on whether you buy the spare key from a dealer or a locksmith. The cost varies also depending on the type you need.
Dealerships
The dealership is one of the most commonly used methods to get a replacement key. Typically, dealers require details such as the car's make and model year, VIN, and year when requesting a new key. Additionally, the dealer could ask for documents of ownership and identification to ensure that the replacement key is given to the owner who is legally entitled to it. Depending on the type of key, this process can be relatively affordable and quick, but it is crucial to keep in mind that dealership services are typically more expensive than other options.
You can also purchase a generic key from a hardware store, locksmith, or even online and program it yourself. This is something that many automakers allow drivers to do, and the instructions are usually included in the owner's manual or on the official 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 get it replaced at a local locksmith for a few dollars. The price will be higher if your key is a transponder or electronic fob. It is likely to cost around $50-$200 or more.
It is usually best to make a duplicate car key before losing the original. You won't get stuck and you'll have a backup key in case of an accident. It's a small cost to pay for peace of mind, and the freedom to drive your vehicle whenever you'd like.
While purchasing a new key can be a hassle however, it's worth the cost in case you ever lose your original one or have it stolen. Contact your local locksmith or automaker before you decide on a service. You can also reach out to reputable key replacement companies and provide them with details regarding your vehicle to get a quote. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs and keep your budget under control.
Locksmiths
If you've ever been locked out of your car, a spare key can help. Keep the spare key in a safe location as you don't want it to be lost or stolen. Depending on the model and make of your vehicle it can cost anywhere from $50-$200 to have a spare key created. There are several ways to obtain an alternative car key, which includes the dealership, an auto locksmith, or roadside assistance.
The dealership where you purchased your car is the best source of an extra key. The dealer will have a blank key and can program it to work with your car. This is the most expensive, but the only way to ensure that you have a functional key replacement in the event you lose your original.
The price will vary, but most hardware stores and locksmiths can create a car key. A basic car key that does not have transponder chips can typically be made for less than $10 while a key fob, or smart key may be more costly.
If you're looking to get a spare car key made, make sure you use a reliable locksmith. They should be DBS checked and vetted and accredited to carry out the work. They should also have insurance that covers them in case something goes wrong during the key duplication process.
Replacing a lost key for your car can be costly however it is worth the investment to have a spare key in case you lose it or put it in your car. It is always better to be prepared than to attempt to pry your door open with a coat hanger, and risk damaging the car. So, make the effort to get a spare car key and keep it in a safe location. You'll be happy that you did it in the event that you require it in the future!
Older cars
The loss of a car key could be a huge hassle. This can lead to costly repair costs and a loss of time, particularly if your vehicle is not accessible. If you have a spare car key, you can avoid these issues completely. Having a spare key can also save you a lot of money in the long term. But how much will a spare car key cost? The price will depend on several factors, such as the model and make of the car and the type key.
There are a variety of keys for cars, some more complex than others. The most popular type of key is the standard key, which can be used to lock and unlock doors. These keys are simple to make and cost between $10 and $15 for each copy. Other alternatives include key fobs, remote keys, and switchblade keys. These are more sophisticated and may include features like alarm activation and remote start. They may cost more than traditional keys.
If you have an older car, it's recommended to make a spare key prior to losing the original. You will avoid the costly cost of replacing a vehicle that is newer. If you lose your key, it's best to replace it as soon as possible. This will ensure you are in a position to gain access to your vehicle and also prevent theft or other problems.
A spare car key is a great 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 the spare car key may differ based on the make and model of the vehicle, and it is essential to consider these factors when choosing the right service provider.
In addition to the key itself most modern cars have an electronic chip in the head of the key. This chip sends an electronic signal to the security system in the car that can verify the key and allow the driver to open or start their car. If these chips become damaged or destroyed, they can be expensive to replace and may require the assistance of an auto locksmith or dealer.
Newer Vehicles
For those of us who are old enough to remember the past, it was very easy to lose your car key without losing a significant amount of money. You could simply take the key code from the owner's manual to a locksmith or hardware store and have a new one cut at an affordable price. Things are a bit more complicated nowadays. Modern cars have keys with chips in them, which require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. There are also key fobs and laser cuts, as well switchblade keys that all cost more than a mechanical key.
However, spare key maker can save up to 30% at Ace Hardware when you purchase the replacement keys online and use their store locator tool to pinpoint the nearest location that can service your vehicle.