How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?

A spare car key is essential to ensure peace of mind in the event that you lose or damage your primary key. However, it can be expensive.

The cost varies depending on where you have the spare key made, whether at an auto dealer or through an locksmith. The cost varies based 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 may request details such as the vehicle's model and make, VIN, and year. The dealer might also require proof of ownership or proof of identity to ensure that the key is issued to its rightful owner. Depending on the kind of key, this process can be fairly quick and cost-effective, but it is important to keep in mind that dealership services are typically more expensive than other options.

You can also purchase a generic key at a hardware shop, locksmith, or online and program it yourself. This is something that many automakers allow drivers to do, and the steps are usually included in the owner's guide or on the official website of the manufacturer. However, this method is usually slower and may be more expensive than calling the locksmith.

You can usually get an old key replaced by a locksmith in your area at a cost of just a few dollars. The price is higher if the key is a transponder or an electronic fob. It could cost you around $50-$200 or more.

In most cases, it is best to have an extra car key prior to losing your original. So you won't end up in a bind and you'll have a backup plan in the event in an emergency. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind and the freedom to drive whenever you like.

While purchasing a new key isn't easy however, it's worth the expense in case you lose your original or have it stolen. Contact your local automaker or locksmith before deciding on a solution. You can also look up reliable key replacement companies and send them a list of details about your vehicle to determine whether they are able to provide you with a quote for the service. This can help you avoid unexpected expenses and keep your budget in the right place.

Locksmiths

If you've ever been locked out of your car, a spare key can come in handy. 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 car it can cost anywhere from between $50 and $200 to get an extra key made. There are several ways to get an alternative car key, which includes the dealership, auto locksmith, and roadside assistance.

The dealer where you bought your vehicle is the best place to get a spare key. The dealer will have the correct key blank and will be capable of programming it to work with your vehicle. This is the most expensive option but it is the most reliable method to ensure you have a functioning key in case you lose your original one.

Many locksmiths and hardware stores will be able to make a car key for you however the cost could differ. 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 can be much more costly.

If you're having a spare car key made, make sure you use a reputable locksmith. They must be DBS verified and vetted, and accredited to carry out work of this type. They should be insured in case anything goes wrong during the duplication process.

It can be expensive to replace keys that are lost but it's worthwhile to have a spare in case you lose it or keep it locked inside the car. It is best to be prepared, rather than risk damaging your car by trying to pry the door off with hangers. Take the time to make a spare key for your vehicle and store it in a safe place. You'll be glad that you did it if you require it in the future!

Older Vehicles

Losing a car key can be a major inconvenience. It can result in expensive repair costs and a loss of time, especially if the vehicle isn't able to be accessed. You can avoid all these problems if you have an spare car key. The possession of a spare key could also save you a lot of dollars in the end. How much does a spare key for a car cost? There are several factors that can influence the price such as the make and model of the vehicle as well as the type of key.

There are many different types of keys for cars, with some more intricate than others. The most common kind of key is the traditional key, which is used to lock and unlock doors. They are simple to create and cost between $10 and $15 for each copy. Other options include key fobs, remote keys and switchblade keys. These are more advanced, and include features like alarm activation and remote start. They can be more costly than the traditional keys.

If you own 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 car that is more modern. If you do lose the key, it is recommended to replace it as soon as you can. This will allow you to gain access to your vehicle and prevent theft.

A spare car key is a wise investment for any driver. A spare key can be very useful should you lose or damage your original. The cost of the spare car key may differ depending on the brand and model of the vehicle, so it is crucial to take into consideration these aspects when selecting a service provider.

In addition to the key itself, the majority of modern cars have an electronic chip in the head of the key. The chip transmits an electronic signal to the security system in the car that will verify the key and allow drivers to open or start their vehicle. The chips can be extremely costly to replace if damaged or lost and may require the assistance of a dealership or locksmith.

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 take the code from the owner's manual to the hardware store or locksmith, and get an alternative key cut at an affordable cost. Things are a bit more complicated nowadays. Keys in newer automobiles are infused with chips, and require dealer knowledge to duplicate. Key fobs are also available and laser cuts, as well switchblade keys, which 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 store locator to locate the nearest location that will service your vehicle.
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