A spare car key in Toronto, copied from the one you have

A spare car key in Toronto is the cheapest key you will ever buy for your car, because the technician has a working key to read. The blade is copied or decoded, and the new chip, remote or smart key is added to the car's memory next to the one you already have. Lose your only key and the same car becomes an all keys lost job, with more labour and a higher price. Many used cars are sold with a single key, so this is often the first call a new owner makes.

Why is a spare cheaper than a replacement?

With a working key in hand, the technician does not have to decode the lock or get into the car's security from scratch. Many cars accept a new key in one short programming session once a valid key is present. Without one, the system has to be accessed first, which takes more time and sometimes a security code.

Which spare should you get?

Match what you use every day. If your key has buttons, a spare with buttons keeps the remote and keyless entry working. If budget matters, some cars accept a chip key without buttons as a backup that still starts the car; you lock the doors with the blade. Ask which options your car supports.

How long does it take at the car?

Adding a spare is usually the shortest job a technician does. The visit is mostly cutting the blade and running the programming steps, then testing both keys. Bring every key out to the car, because some models need all keys present when the key list is saved.

What does a spare car key cost?

It is quoted from your make, model and year on the phone, before anyone is sent. The blank or fob is the main cost, and the labour is lower than for a lost key. Ask for the price of one spare and of two, since some households want one for each driver.

Where should the spare live?

Not in the car. A spare in the glovebox or in a magnet box under the bumper leaves with the car if it is stolen. Keep it at home or with someone you trust, and treat it like a house key.