As a Subaru car owner, you may have faced the stressful situation of losing your car keys or being locked out of your car. It’s a frustrating experience and can leave you feeling helpless. The solution to this problem is to have a spare set of car keys. In this article, we will discuss the importance of having an extra set of car keys and the various methods available to obtain them.
The Importance of Having an Extra Set of Car Keys
Having an extra set of car keys can save you from a lot of inconvenience and stress. It’s important to have a backup option in case you lose or misplace your keys. Without a spare set, you may face the hassle of getting a new set of keys made or even worse, being stranded without access to your car. Having a backup set can save you time, money and prevent undue stress and hassle.
Methods to Get an Extra Set of Car keys
There are several methods available to obtain an extra set of car keys for your Subaru. Here are some of the most straightforward options that are commonly available:
Ordering through a Dealership
Dealerships are most commonly associated with car key replacement. The dealership will need to verify your proof of ownership before making a new set of keys. This process can be time-consuming, but the advantage is that the keys are guaranteed to work because they come from the manufacturer. The downside is that this method can be more expensive than other alternatives.
Hiring a Locksmith
If you’re looking for a more convenient and less expensive solution to replace your Subaru car keys, a locksmith could be a good option. Many locksmiths are equipped to make replica keys, and some even offer on-site key cutting services. The advantage of using a locksmith is that they can be more flexible and available to reach you in case of emergency. However, not all locksmiths are equipped with the tools and knowledge to make keys for your car model, so make sure you choose a reputable service provider.
Using Online Key Cutting Services
Online key cutting services are becoming more popular in recent years. Many of these services offer a cheaper and more convenient option to get an extra set of car keys. With online key cutting services, you can order your spare keys from the comfort of your home and have them shipped to you. This method is great for those who want to avoid the hassle of visiting a dealership or a locksmith. However, it’s important to note that online key cutting services may not be available for all car models, and many people feel uneasy about sharing sensitive information online.
Cost of Key Replacement
The cost of getting a replacement key for your Subaru can vary depending on several factors. Typically, the cost ranges between $50 to $300, but this can increase depending on the level of complexity and type of keys your car needs. Modern car keys are more complex and may require additional programming efforts, which can add to the replacement cost.
Factors That Could Impact the Cost of Key Replacement
The cost of key replacement can increase depending on the factors that impact the cost of key replacement. Here are some of the factors that you should consider:
- The type of keys needed: Modern car keys have electronic chips that need to be programmed to communicate with the car. These keys can cost more than regular keys because of the added technology.
- Key programming: Programming keys can be more complicated and time-consuming, leading to higher labor costs.
- Key duplicates: Some key cutting services charge a higher price for additional duplicates.
Tips on How to Prevent Losing Car Keys in the Future
Having a backup set of keys is important, but it’s also important to prevent losing your keys in the first place. Here are some tips to help prevent losing your Subaru car keys:
- Use a keychain: Attach a keychain to your keys to make them easier to find and spot.
- Have a designated place to put your keys: Make it a habit to place your keys in the same spot every time you come home.
- Use technology: Consider investing in a tracking device or RFID key finder to help locate lost keys.
FAQ:
Q: Are Subaru keys expensive to replace?
A: The cost of replacement keys depends on the level of complexity and type of keys your car needs, but they can range between $50 to $300.
Q: Can I get a duplicate of my Subaru keys?
A: Yes, keys can be duplicated at a dealership, locksmith service, or key cutting service.
Q: Can I get an extra set of Subaru car keys without my original set?
A: It depends on the method used to make new keys. A dealership will need to verify ownership, but a locksmith or key cutting service may be able to make keys without an original set.
In conclusion, having an extra set of car keys is crucial for any Subaru car owner. It’s important to consider the various options available when trying to obtain a spare set of keys. Factors such as cost and availability should be reviewed before making a decision on which method is right for you. With the tips provided, you can also minimize the chances of losing your keys in the future, keeping you safe, and saving you time and money.