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How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost? The loss of your car keys could be a major hassle and it's crucial to have a spare key in case you lose or break your primary one. What is the cost to buy a replacement car key? The answer will depend on several factors. This article will examine those factors to help you decide whether it's worth having a spare key created. Make It's always a good idea to have a spare car key since losing a key could be costly and stressful. But the cost of having a spare key could vary depending on your vehicle's make and model and also the kind of key. For example, basic keys with no technology will be cheaper to replace as they require a simple cutting from an empty piece of paper and do not require specialized encoding. A key that is integrated into a car fob, or is equipped with a chip will require programming and will be more expensive. If you've lost your only key, the first step is to find a local locksmith who has a tool that can program your type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. The steps to do this will be outlined in your owner's manual, or you can search on the internet for “how to program (your year, make, and model) key.” This can help you save up to $150. Model The model of your car determines the cost of the spare car key. For instance, if you need a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the price will be higher than for an entry-level vehicle. The type of material used to make the key also impacts the price. It is less expensive to replace a blank than the key that has an integrated key fob. If you're looking to save money, several dealerships will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you. Year A spare car key is essential particularly if your children are young and may lock themselves inside the vehicle. There are several ways to get a spare key , including visiting the dealership where you bought your car, using an auto locksmith, or getting one online. Each choice comes with the associated costs and advantages. You should take into consideration the type of key you want and the lock type prior to making a choice. Generally speaking the more expensive the lock and the more expensive it will be. Key type Having a spare key can help you avoid being stranded in the event that you lose the car keys you use for your primary. However the cost of a spare car key can vary greatly depending on the type of lock your vehicle is using and the type of key you own. Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys that work by inserting the key into the cylinder for ignition. These keys cost just $10. Chip keys, also known as transponder keys, are more expensive and have small chips that communicate to the vehicle to verify that the keys are valid. Dealerships are the only place that can duplicate these keys since they are equipped with all the necessary equipment needed to program them. Other advanced systems like remote starters and mirror folding can also increase the cost of replacing keys. These extra features are useful if you're prone to losing your keys or have a tendency to leave them in strange places however, they also increase the risk of theft. Consider leaving a spare in a different location and make it a habit of emptying your pockets prior getting into your car. You can be sure your spare key is there whenever you need it. Locks A spare car key can be a wise choice. It will save you a lot of trouble in the event that you lose your keys or if you lock them in your car. However, you should always keep your spare key in a safe place, and ensure that you leave it somewhere that is easy to find. For instance an affixed key holder on the wall or an open drawer in your kitchen are great locations to store it. The type of locks on your car will also affect the cost of replacing keys that are spare. Keys that are traditional, which slide into the lock and open the doors to the car, are cheaper to replace than smart key fobs, which transmit an electronic code that allows you to unlock or start your car from a distance. If you lose your smart key, you will need to go to a dealership or locksmith for the replacement. The experts will need to confirm that you're the owner of the vehicle, which could require providing proof like the registration or title. In the past, losing your car keys was not a big deal. With the advancements in technology for automobiles, it's no longer as simple to find an extra. You'll need to visit an auto dealer or a locksmith to have a brand new one made, and that can be costly. Here are some suggestions to aid you in estimating the cost of a new spare car key. Dealership It's important to keep a spare car key handy in case you lose your keys or they were stolen. It can save you money and time in the long time. It will also save you from having to call for a tow when you're stuck without a key. There are several alternatives to get keys that can be replaced, including dealerships, locksmiths, and online services. These options vary in price and accessibility, so you should research them before making a decision. The cost will also be contingent on the type of key you need. Keys of the traditional type are cheap and simple to replace. More sophisticated keys are more expensive. Certain features, such as mirror folding, alarm activation and remote start might require special components that are more difficult to find or manufacture. Keep a log of the immobilizer's code and also your key number. This will help you to save money. The most reliable way to obtain a spare car key is to visit the dealer that sells your vehicle's model. You'll get a key that's compatible with the vehicle's system, and that has been programmed correctly. It is more expensive, however, you'll be sure to have a key that works when you need one. It is also typically the only way to get a key for some more recent vehicles.