The Cost of Car Key Cutting
Many car owners depend on the service of cutting keys for their cars. It is important to understand the price before you make a choice.
Many hardware stores and box stores have key-cutting equipment where you can easily cut copies of your keys. These typically cost you a few dollars.
Cost of Key Blanks
The cost of cutting basic key types like car keys, house keys fobs, and key fobs is usually only a few dollars. The majority of hardware stores have key duplication machines that can cut these keys in a single pass. The process utilizes the original key as template, and then the blank key is positioned with a specific cutter that cuts both keys simultaneously. This makes it easy to design the new key that is a match to the original in shape and size.
These basic machines aren't able to copy advanced key types, such as keys that have remote functions or transponder chips. They typically require an expert to visit and program the key before they can be used with your vehicle. This is the reason why many prefer to go to a locksmith or dealer professional when they lose their keys or need replacements.
While most hardware stores have the ability to duplicate these more sophisticated key types but not all have the capability. This means that if own a car that is newer you might need to visit your dealer to get a duplicate key made.
If you'd like to stay clear of the cost, you can purchase an empty key blank from an online retailer. These packages can be purchased for a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a store, and include key blanks in various dimensions and shapes. Key blanks are also available in bulk, which allows you to create multiple copies for less per key.
Ron Sparer lost the key to his car years ago. He was aware that the need for a replacement but he didn't want to pay $300 to the dealer. He searched for a solution, and discovered that some Ace Hardware stores had a program to help him create a duplicate key which worked with the car Toyota. The only catch is that he has to know the code for the RF chip that is molded into the end of his fob. He was able, thanks to YouTube to find the code for the new key and follow the directions.
Cost of Equipment
The cutting of car keys involves using tools to create a replacement ignition key that's identical to the original. Modern car keys come with various security features, like encryption, which ensures that only the right key will be able to start your vehicle. This technology is intended to deter thieves from trying to duplicate or modify your keys. Car key cutting is a special service that requires special equipment to produce a perfect copy of your car's key. A professional locksmith will have the equipment necessary to ensure that the replacement key is secure and compatible with all locks. A professional locksmith will give the guarantee of their services. This is a great advantage if you're worried about the quality of the service.
The process of cutting keys for cars usually begins with a fully functional, working original key that is inserted into a lock to be copied. The original key is cut, and the template for the new one is copied using a key duplication machine. A blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine, and both are pushed through the cutting mechanism, which produces the new key that is identical to the original. There are a variety of key duplicating machine, such as a single key cutter as well as a dual key cutter that is able to handle mortice and cylinder keys. In recent years, key duplication machines have become more sophisticated and are fitted with software that allows them to cut both traditional keys made of metal as well as smart transponder ones. These key duplication tools are more precise than conventional tools, which makes it more difficult for thieves to duplicate your car keys without your knowledge.
Some auto stores offer key Cloning, which is an easier procedure than cutting keys. To perform this task associates will take your existing key and select a matching blank key that is compatible with your year, model and model. The blank key is then traced by a machine to precisely duplicate the contours of the original. This method is not recommended if the vehicle is equipped with a transponder chip with it, as it could not allow you to start your car with the key that was copied.
Cost of Labor
In the past, you could find a replacement key at the local locksmith or hardware store if you had lost yours. However, modern cars use remote transmitters and transponder chips that make it more difficult to duplicate keys. Typically, the only way to replace these kinds of keys is to visit the dealership, which could be expensive.
Another factor that affects the cost of replacing a car key is the kind and complexity of the key. Copying basic keys for your home is inexpensive, but keys with key fobs or other features are more expensive as they require a separate machine and are more difficult to copy. The price of a duplicate key will depend on the number of copies you'll need.
Standard keys are the most commonly used kind of car key. They are simple to duplicate and don't need any programming. However, modern cars use transponder keys, which are much more expensive to copy as they require programming to work with your car. Additionally, some key fobs come with transponder chips built-in, which need to be programmed as well.
Depending on the kind of key, the duplication machine used, and the cost of the key blank, the overall cost could range from $25 to $300. If you want to get the most value on key duplications you should find a professional who is an associate member of Associated Locksmiths of America.
You'll need to pay labor, in addition to the cost of the key blanks and duplication machines when you need an additional key. Based on car keys cut and programmed of key, this can be as little as $10, however, it could be more if you're required to pay for a new fob or a professional to visit your workplace or home. You can save money by choosing a locksmith or cutter who will provide you with an estimate for free. You'll know what you can expect and you can decide if you want to accept the offer before you do. This is crucial when replacing keys that require the use of a machine to duplicate.
Cost of Programming
Car key cutting is one aspect of the overall cost for replacing lost car keys. A car locksmith must program the new key so that it matches your existing one. This is long. The cost of programming a new key is affected by the year, model and model of your car. The type of key you require will also affect the price. Transponder chips are needed for the more advanced keys to start your vehicle. This helps to prevent theft of your car and also provides additional security.
The most commonly used kind of car key is a simple, flat blade. Keys of this kind can be cut by locksmiths, a hardware store, or even at big box stores. A flat blade key typically costs between $5 and $10 to duplicate. High security keys however are more complex in design and are much harder to reproduce. They are more expensive due to the additional security, and require a more specialized machine to cut them.
Transponder chips can be found on the keys of modern vehicles. These need to be linked to the vehicle for them to function. This is why it's vital to have an extra set of car keys. A professional will need to replace the chip in your key if you lose it. The procedure is simple however it takes a bit of time.
Many big box stores provide duplicate services for car keys, however they are not equipped to program the newer transponder key. Additionally, some independent auto repair shops and dealerships don't have the tools needed to do this either. This is why it is important to find a locksmith in your area who can program new keys for your car.
The price of a car key can range between $50-$400. The cost varies based on the type of key and whether it has a remote fob built into it or not. A separate fob that's not included in the key is typically around $75 to program. Key-and-fob combinations are more expensive and may cost as much as $300 to program. Switchblade keys, which have the key that folds into the fob, resembling an switchblade knife, are more expensive to program as well.