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It is a very good question. In the past, especially if you got an old car or your car was not common, it might not have been easy to find a replacement from the dealership. Nowadays, most cars come with spare keys, and replacements can be ordered online and sent relatively easily. However, it should also be noted that there may be some additional costs such as extra keys and new locks depending upon the type of car and dealer.

The first thing to do is check with your dealer to see what they offer as standard service as some will replace lost/stolen/damaged keys free of charge, while other dealerships tend to set up an additional fee for this service.

Depending upon the type of key, some are simple push-pins that can be easily replaced at a low cost, whereas others may need to be cut by someone who has specialized equipment to do this. Better dealerships should have cutting machines on their premises so that keys can be made quickly and efficiently.

If you find that your key needs to be cut, it is usually more expensive as the locksmith will have to come out to you with their equipment. They will normally charge an hourly rate, which would work up into a set fee for their time, taking into account travel costs. This could vary greatly depending upon where you live/work, but prices start from around $50 upwards per hour or even higher in very populated areas.

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“This is more than likely why some people try to cut keys themselves with household tools which can be very ineffective and, worse still, damaging. Replacing the locking system on some cars can also be expensive depending on the car brand you have purchased.”

If it is determined that cutting a new key would cost too much or you cannot use your car for any reason, then most dealerships will either attempt to re-program your old key or even give you one of theirs to use while yours is being cut/replaced. This service again varies greatly from one dealer to another, with prices starting from $50 upwards per visit, although this could increase if parking charges are high in your area.

“If you are looking at getting a spare key made, then you may have to pay additional fees for new locks/fobs, which can be anything from $40 upwards per item. It is always advisable to check with your dealership on this.”

On average, costs range from around $65 upwards; however, do keep in mind that if many keys are being made or existing locks are changed, etc., some dealerships may charge up to double this price.

For the sake of safety, it is always best to ask at the dealership first as they will have specialist equipment and knowledge on how much it could cost. This way, you would avoid any potential problems where things go wrong at certain prices. They will also know their products and services more accurately.

In addition to this, the dealership will also have correct technicians who can carry out this service safely and efficiently, which would include anything from cutting a key to replacing a complete locking system. It is better to go with the main dealer for these repairs as they tend to be more experienced and professional in their work. This way, you keep your warranty intact, and you know that everything has been done correctly. Other garages or even individuals may try to replace a lock only on the door, which means there could still be problems with the car later on without you knowing it until it is too late.

“There are several different ways of how locks can go wrong, so if you have one specific problem, then it might be better to go with a specialist who deals with that type of issue.”

Yes, it is perfectly safe to have your dealership cut the locks on your car as long as they are experienced.

Garages out there tend to be cheaper because they haven’t got the same equipment or knowledge; therefore, their prices will vary greatly for larger things such as replacing locking systems. If you have a minor fault, then it might be easier for smaller garages. Still, if any large work needs doing, it would be safer and more reliable to go with an established dealership than someone who doesn’t usually do this type of work.

“If you are still unsure about where best to take your car, then speak to someone at your dealership first before making a decision. They will be able to give you advice and be able to tell you everything that they can do for a price.”

Having someone cut a key for your car is not going to invalidate any warranty if the work is carried out at the main dealership. The only time it wouldn’t be covered would be if you get someone else to make/cut the key yourself or it isn’t done in full, meaning that some things weren’t replaced, etc.

“If you want an extra copy of your current key, then this should still fall under warranty unless there was a problem with the original key when it was made, i.e., missing parts. If the manufacturer has used a code/signature system, then this could also affect whether or not it will be covered.”

Well, you can bring your car to a dealership, and they will make an extra copy of the key for you. You might have to pay for this service, but otherwise, it should still fall under warranty which is usually anywhere up to 3 years depending on the type of vehicle.

Key cutting varies greatly on what kind of dealer or garage you are using, so always check first before any work starts. If anything goes wrong, please contact the manufacturer as soon as possible to get it resolved properly without too much fuss. It is also advisable that if you have bought a second-hand car, ask them where they had their keys cut just in case there are problems later down the. They shouldn’t mind providing this information as it is usually considered common practice.

“If you do choose to go for this service at a dealership, then they should cut the keys correctly so that they work properly, and there should be no reason why your repairs/warranty wouldn’t be covered.”

There are several different types of locks on cars, depending on the year and model; therefore, it might be better to go with a specialist who deals with that type of issue if you have one specific problem. This is because some garages only specialize in certain things, such as repairing ignition switches or doorknobs. If any other fault arises, you will need to take it elsewhere, however large or small the problem may be.

If something goes wrong with the car, it is best to contact the manufacturer directly for them to look at what has happened. They are usually very good at providing this type of service and should be able to get your problem sorted out within a reasonable amount of time, so you don’t have to spend too long without your vehicle.

Getting a second key for your car isn’t always easy, especially if you have a modern vehicle with a push-to-start button. However, several ways may allow you to easily add another key to your car.

Here are tips on how can I get a second key for my car.

1. Steal the key from an identical model of the same year/make/model – This is the best option if you have access to an identical car. It’s easier than it sounds because every car has a code stamped onto its key, so all you need to do is take your key apart and match up the numbers/letters on the inside with those of the second key. If you happen to find yourself in this scenario, please see a mechanic have the second key programmed for your car.
2. Borrow one from a friend – Not exactly what you’re after, but if you can find a friend with an identical vehicle and an extra key, then borrowing it is your best bet. If you don’t know anyone who owns a replica of your ride, you can’t go wrong with a photocopy.
3. Get your dealership to cut you a key – This is the most expensive route, but it’s guaranteed to work and will be programmed specifically for your vehicle without any issues down the line. If money is no object, then this is the way to go.
4. Make one from a spare – This is a cheap alternative, but it can run you into trouble if you don’t program the key yourself or have your local auto-locksmith do it. If you find the right key online and cut it out yourself, then programming it with your car’s ECU will be straightforward enough for anyone familiar with computers.
5. Find one online – This is the most likely route you’ll take, and it’s more affordable than your local dealership or auto locksmith. You can find a variety of keys on eBay for under $30 that will fit directly into your ignition and work like a charm; however, these keys may not be programmed to start your car. If that’s the case, then follow the instructions on your local locksmith or auto-repair shop’s website to program it yourself (it only takes a few minutes).
6. Make one from scratch – This is when you cut out your key for your ignition, and it will work like any other; however, unless you have experience in removing locks or have a friend who can, don’t attempt this without help.
7. Get another car – This isn’t always possible because not everyone has the means to purchase another vehicle. However, it’s undoubtedly the cheapest way to get around when your key breaks or gets lost. If you truly hate walking, then consider saving up for your next ride.
8. Borrow one from your car dealership – If you’re willing to pay a little something for the favor, then contacting someone at your local car dealership may get you back on the road again in no time. Dealerships are often willing to cut new sets of keys or provide spare ones for customers who want to borrow them.
9. Hire a locksmith – If you’re in dire need of another key, then calling your local locksmith is probably the best way to go about getting one. A locksmith will be able to cut you an extra set for your ignition and program it in no time at all; not only that, but they’ll also be able to make you a second remote if your car comes equipped with one.
10. Call a tow truck – This isn’t the preferred method, but it’ll certainly get you home in time for dinner. If any of these solutions don’t work out for you, call a local tow-truck company and see what they can do for you. The only downside to this option is that you’ll have to pay for it, but you probably won’t have much of a choice when your car stays immobile in the parking lot.
11. Ask the service department at the dealer where you bought your car

If your car has been manufactured recently, dealers will record when it stopped making copies of keys. If this date is relatively recent, they should be able to make a copy in a limited time – sometimes even within a half hour.

12. Look for a locksmith who does key cutting by code or on an electronic key machine

If you have a really old car, then there’s no chance of getting a new key from the dealer without having to pay an arm and a leg. In this case, it is worthwhile to find a locksmith who can cut the key by code. The advantage of this method is that you will receive a second key with no problems whatsoever.

13. Repair the damaged keys yourself

You can also look for leaflets in which people are looking to buy or sell their old parts – or even go online and search for offers on classifieds platforms. However, you should only buy an already cut second key – if you can not find one, it is better to do the work yourself.

14. Use replacement keys for older vehicles

While these are very expensive, they are guaranteed identical to your current key. These may be available through specialist merchants (e.g., for classic cars). Even though you have to pay a lot of money, it is the cheapest way to produce a second key for your car.

15. Use replacement keys for vehicles whose cylinders were changed.

This applies if you brought your car around 1998 and up – provided that you had the cylinder lock installed by an authorized dealer at that time. If this is the case, then there is a chance that you can get your locksmith to cut the key for your vehicle.

When it comes to how I can get a second key for my car, you have countless options – but these are fifteen of the best ideas out there.

If all else fails, you can always try asking family or friends for help – or you can go back to the dealer and pay for a second key.

Remember that before you do anything, it’s worth checking with your insurance company to determine if this will invalidate any of your coverages.

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In the past, you could get a duplicated key for a few bucks, but with technology, today, car keys can cost hundreds, even thousands of dollars. That’s right, $200 to replace a Ford or Nissan car key may seem expensive to some people, but a fraction of the cost compared to those on this list.

Some of the world’s most expensive key fobs and car keys are mentioned in this article. If you think $1,000 sounds crazy, wait until you learn about the car keys ranging between $10,000 and $20,000 ranges. Welcome to the expensive world of luxury vehicles.

The finest details and latest technology come with a high price tag and expensive accessories such as the best computer chips and circuit boards. For example, you can get a custom Porsche key that mirrors your vehicle. A custom car key like this not only looks neat, it’s often a one of a kind, and with that comes a higher price tag.

You may ask why, but men love their cars like women love diamonds and gold. That is why companies successfully release upgrades so frequently. Here are the most expensive car keys and key fobs around the world, and most require a computer chip to be professionally programmed to your car. Of course, the sky is the limit!

BMW I8 Futuristic Car Key

The futuristic BMW key fob will cost you $1,000 or more. There are many unique features of the i8 key fob, making it expensive and fun to play with too.

New BWM 7-Series Key fob Features:

1. Connects via Bluetooth to the BMW i8.
2. Equipped with a 2.2″ LCD touchscreen.
3. Connects to the car’s computer to transfer data, including car temperature, gas level, and various other information.
4. Allows for remotely parking while outside the vehicle.

Pagani Huyara Car Key

The Pagani Huyara has a $1.1 million price tag, and the cost of the key fob is around $3,700.

The key itself is designed to replicate the car’s shape and is made from the same metal. Yes, the key fob is a miniature Pagani model! It pulls apart, with one side being the car key and the other being a USB drive to the car’s audio system.

Bentley Diamond Flip Key

Many men dream of owning a Bentley, with a price of $200,000 and up. Some of the most expensive keys in the world were designed by Alexander Amosu, and that includes the 101 diamond-filled Bentley keys. This particular key was designed with detail to highlight the Bentley wing logo.

The diamonds total 1.09 carats and the key costs just under $8,000!

Bejeweled Ferrari Car Key

The Ferrari is a luxury car with a quarter-million-dollar starting price. They are among the most popular and desired of the sports care category, but they are one of the few to still use a traditional key vs. electronic key fobs.

Although simple in design, it is still well customized by a London jewel designer Camael. This particular key was custom fitted with 1160 tiny diamonds, with a total of 7 carats the price of the key is rather high. Although others use similar designs, it was first used on Ferrari.

Traditional costs for Ferrari keys range between $200 and $400, but this design will run about $24,000.

AMV OX2 Aston Martin DB9 Transponder Car Key

Since its release in 2008, only 100 of these electronic watch style keys have been produced. Due to the rarity, the key has a $34,000 value, and there are reports of Aston Martin owners purchasing a spare key for up to $47,000.

Not only is the design unique and flashy as a watch, but the features it provides are also interesting as it tells time and connects to the car. In fact, it can be seen in James Bond films.

The watch tells time, opens the Aston Martin DB9 doors, and depending on where you press on the responsive surface of the watch, you can obtain various vehicle information and flare the headlights. Another benefit of the design is, wearing your key fob on your wrist, the chance of losing it is reduced, and you probably won’t forget it in the car.

Koenigsegg Agera Car Key

At $2.8 million, this is the most expensive supercar on the list. The key is shaped like the Swedish manufacturer’s logo. It is known as the most expensive car key in the world at this time, and while not a factory option, there is an Agera key boasting about 40 carats of diamonds.

This brings the cost of this exclusive key fob to $250,000 because it’s one of a kind it even more desirable.