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How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost? The loss of your car keys could be a huge inconvenience and it's essential to have an extra key in the event that you lose or break your primary one. But how much does an extra key for your vehicle cost? The answer depends on a variety of factors. This article will help you decide if it's worth having a spare made. Be sure to make use of It's always a good idea to have a spare car key, since losing a car key can be expensive and stressful. The cost of the spare car key is dependent on the brand and model of your vehicle and also its type. For example, basic keys that do not have any technology will be cheaper to replace since they require only a simple cut from a blank and do not require specialized encoding. A key that is integrated into a car fob, or has a chip, will require programming, and will cost more. If you've lost your only key, the first step is to locate a local locksmith who has a tool that can program the type of key. You can also save money by cutting the key yourself and programming it. You can find the process in the owner's manual, or on the internet for “how do I program (your year make and model) key.” You could save up to $150. Model The model number of your vehicle influences the cost of an extra car key. If you need a key replacement for a luxurious model or a premium vehicle the price will be higher. The cost is also influenced by the type of material used in the making of the key. For instance, it'll cost less to replace a blank key than a complete key with an integrated fob. If you want to save money, several dealerships will also cut and program third-party keys for you. Year It is important to have an extra car key especially if you have children who may be locked in the car. There are several options to obtain an extra key, such as visiting the dealership from which you bought your car, using an auto locksmith, or getting one online. Each method has the associated costs and benefits. Before making a choice, you should consider the type and style of lock. Generally speaking the more expensive the brand, the higher the cost will be. Type of key A spare key will allow you to avoid being in a bind when you lose your main car keys. However the cost of having a spare car key can vary greatly depending on the lock type your vehicle is using and the kind of key you have. Locksmiths and hardware stores can cut mechanical keys that function by inserting the key into the ignition cylinder. They can cost less than $10. The more expensive alternatives keys, also known as transponder keys or chip keys, have a small electronic chip inside the head that communicates with the vehicle to verify that it is a genuine key. These kinds of keys are only able to be duplicated in dealerships since they have the equipment required to program them. Other advanced systems, such as remote starters or mirror folding options, may be a factor in the overall cost of a new key. These extra features are beneficial if you are prone to misplacing your keys or leave them in strange places, but they can also increase the likelihood of theft. You might want to consider putting a spare key in a different spot and establish a routine of emptying your pockets prior to getting into your car. You can be sure that your spare key is available when you need to use it. Locks A spare car key is a smart move. It can save you a lot of trouble if you lose your keys or lock them in the car. However, you should always keep your spare keys in a secure place and ensure that you leave it somewhere that is easy to find. For instance the wall-mounted key holder or a drawer in your kitchen are both good locations to store it. The type of lock you have on your vehicle will also influence the cost of replacing a key. Traditional keys, which insert into a lock and then open the doors of your car and are more affordable to replace than smart key fobs which emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock the car or start it from a distance. If you lose your smart keys, you'll need to visit a locksmith or dealership to obtain an alternative. The experts will confirm that you have the vehicle. It may be necessary for you to present proof such as the registration or title. In the past, losing your car keys was not a big deal. However, with the technological advances in cars, it's no longer as easy to get a spare. It can be costly to have a new key made by a locksmith or dealer. Here are some tips to help you determine how much it will cost to have a spare car key made. Dealership It is essential to keep an extra car key on hand in case you lose your keys or were stolen. You'll save money and time in the long run. You'll also not have to call for a tow if you are stuck without keys. There are a few options for getting keys that can be replaced, including dealerships, locksmiths and online services. These options vary in price and ease of use and you should investigate the options before making a final decision. The cost will also depend on the type of key that you require. Keys of the traditional type, also known as basic keys are inexpensive and easy to replace, whereas more sophisticated keys are more expensive. Some features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start, may require specific components, which are difficult to locate or create. It is essential to keep an accurate record of your immobilizer code and the key number which will help reduce the overall cost. The most secure method to get a spare car key is to visit the dealership that sells your vehicle's model. You'll get keys that are compatible with your vehicle's system and has been programmed correctly. It's more expensive but you'll be certain to have a key that works when you need one. Additionally, it is usually the only method to obtain the key for certain newer vehicles.