How Much Does a Spare Car Key Cost?
A spare car key is important to have peace of mind in the event you lose or break your primary key. It can be costly.
The cost will vary based on whether you get the spare key from a dealer or locksmith. The cost also varies depending on the kind of key you require.
Dealerships
One of the most common methods to obtain a replacement car key is through a dealer. When requesting a replacement key, the dealer may require details like the car's model and make, VIN, and year. The dealer might also require documents of ownership or identification to ensure that the key is given to the correct owner. This procedure can be swift and cost-effective based on the type of keys used, however, dealer services are generally more expensive.
Alternatively, you can purchase a standard spare car key from the hardware store or locksmith and program it yourself. A lot of automakers allow drivers to do this, and it is usually explained in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website. This process may be slower and more expensive than calling a locksmith.
It is possible to have an old key replaced by a local locksmith at a cost of a few dollars. If your key is one that is electronic or has a transponder chip, however, the cost will be significantly more expensive. You can expect to pay between $50 and $200.
It is generally recommended to make a duplicate car key before you lose the original. That way you won't end up stranded and you will have a backup in case in an emergency. It's a small cost to pay for peace of mind and the freedom to drive your car at any time you want.
While buying a new car key isn't easy however, it's worth it in the event that you lose your original one or have it stolen. If you're worried about the expense of having a spare car key talk to your local locksmith or automaker before you decide on a particular service. You can also reach out to reliable key replacement companies and provide them with the details about your vehicle in order to receive a quote. This will help you avoid any unexpected expenses and keep your budget in control.
Locksmiths
If you've ever been locked out of your car A spare key could help. Keep the spare key in a secure place as you do not want it to get lost or stolen. Depending on the model and make of your car, it can cost $50-$200 to have a spare key created. You can purchase a new car key from a number of sources, including a dealer, an auto-locksmith, or roadside assistance.
The dealership where you purchased your car is the best source of a spare key. The dealer will have a blank key and can program it to work with your car. This is the most expensive option but it is the most reliable way to have a working key in case you lose the original key.
The cost can vary, but many locksmiths and hardware stores can make car keys. A basic car key with 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 ensure that you choose a trustworthy locksmith. They must pass an DBS check and be vetted. They must also be certified to perform this kind of work. They should also have insurance which covers them in the event that something goes wrong during the key duplication process.
Replacing a lost key for your car is costly, but it is worth the cost to have a spare in the event that you lose yours, or keep it locked in your car. It is best to be prepared rather than risking damaging your car by trying to open the door open with hangers. So, take the time to have a spare car key made and store it in a secure place. You'll be glad that you did it in the event that you require it in the future!
Older vehicles

The loss of a car key could be a huge inconvenience. It can result in costly repair bills and a loss of time, particularly if you are unable to get into your vehicle. You can avoid all of these problems if you have an spare car key. A spare key can also save you lots of money in the long run. But how much does an extra car key cost? The cost of a key is influenced by several factors, including the model and make of the vehicle and the type of key.
There are a variety of keys for cars and some are more complex than others. The most popular is a traditional key that is used to lock and unlock doors. These are easy to make and cost between $10 and $15 for each copy. Other alternatives include switchblade keys, key fobs, and remote keys. spare car key fob can be more advanced and include features such as alarm activation via remote. They are more expensive than the traditional keys.
If you own an older vehicle it is recommended to have a spare key created prior to losing the original. This will help you avoid the costly replacement costs associated with a newer vehicle. If you do lose your key, it is best to have it replaced immediately. This will ensure that you're in a position to gain access to your vehicle and avoid theft or other issues.
A spare car key is a good investment for any driver. A spare key can be very useful should you lose or damage the original. The cost of the spare car key may vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, and it is essential to consider these factors when choosing the right service provider.
The majority of modern cars also have an electronic chip that is embedded in the head of keys. The chip transmits a signal to a car's security system that can verify the key and allow the driver to unlock or start their vehicle. If these chips become damaged or destroyed they may be costly to replace and may require the assistance of an expert locksmith or a dealership.
Newer Vehicles
For those who are old enough to remember it in the past, it was very easy to lose your car key without losing a lot of money. You could take the key's code from the owner's manual to a locksmith or hardware store and have an alternative cut at a reasonable cost. Today things are a bit more complicated. Newer cars have keys with chips that are built-in, and require knowledge from a dealer to duplicate. Then there are key fobs, laser cut and even switchblade keys - all of which cost a lot more than the traditional mechanical key.
There's no reason not to save up to 30 percent at Ace Hardware when you purchase your key replacements online and utilize their store locator tool to find the nearest location to service your vehicle.