The Cost of Car Key Cutting
Many car owners depend on the service of cutting keys for their vehicles. It is important to understand the price before you make a choice.
Hardware stores and box stores usually have key-cutting kiosks where you can create a simple copy of your keys. These usually cost a few dollars.
Cost of Key Blanks
The cost of cutting basic key types like car keys, house keys fobs and key fobs is typically a few dollars. Most hardware stores have key duplication equipment that can cut these keys in a single move. The process utilizes the original key as template, and then the blank key is cut with a special cutter that cuts both keys at once. This makes it easy to design the new key that is a match to the original in shape and size.
These simple machines can't duplicate advanced key types, such as keys that have remote functions or transponder chips. car key cutting and programming require a professional to come onsite and program the key before they are able to work with your vehicle. Many people will visit a professional locksmith or dealership for replacement of their keys.
Not all hardware stores can duplicate these key models. If you own a brand new vehicle, you'll need to visit a dealership to obtain an identical key.
If you'd like to avoid this expense, consider purchasing key blanks from an online retailer. They are less than what you would pay in a retail store and come with blanks of different sizes and shapes. Key blanks are also available in bulk, which enables you to make multiple copies for a lesser cost per key.
Ron Sparer lost the key to his car a few years ago. He knew he'd need a replacement but did not want to pay $300 to be spent at the dealer. He looked for a solution, and found that certain Ace hardware stores carry a program that can help him create a duplicate key that works with the car Toyota. The only problem is that he needs to know the code for the RF chip which is molded into the back of his fob. He was able, thanks to YouTube to locate the code for the new key and follow the directions.
Cost of Equipment
The cutting process for keys for cars involves using tools to create a replacement ignition key that is the same. Modern car keys include various security features, like encryption which guarantees that only the correct coded key can start your vehicle. This technology is designed to stop thieves from trying to duplicate or tamper with your keys, making them more difficult to access. It is a specialized job that requires special equipment in order to make a perfect replica of your car keys. A professional locksmith will have the equipment required to make sure that a replacement key is safe and works in all locks. They also offer an assurance on their services which is a major advantage if you are worried about the quality of their work.
The process of cutting keys for cars typically begins with a fully functioning, working key that is put into the lock to be copied. A key duplication machine is then used to duplicate the cut on the end of the key which acts as a template for the new key. The blank key is then placed on the opposite side of the machine, and both are simultaneously moved through the cutting mechanism. This produces a key that matches exactly the original. There are various types of key duplicating machines including a single-key cutter as well as a dual-key cutter which can handle both mortice and key cylinders. In recent times, key-duplication tools are more advanced and come with software to enable them to cut both traditional metal keys as well as smart transponder keys. Key duplication systems are more precise than traditional tools, making it difficult for thieves to duplicate your car keys without your knowledge.
Some auto shops offer key Cloning, which is an easier process than cutting keys. An associate will select a blank key compatible with your model year, make, and year. The blank key is then traced using a machine to accurately reproduce the contours of your original. However this method is not recommended for vehicles that have integrated transponder chips since the copied key might not be able to start the vehicle.
Cost of Labor
In the past, it was easy to find a replacement key at the local hardware store or locksmith if you had lost yours. But, modern cars have remote transmitters and transponder chips that make it more difficult to duplicate keys. In most cases, the only option to replace these keys is to go to the dealership. This can be costly.
Another aspect that affects the cost of replacing a car key is the kind and complexity of the key. Basic house keys are inexpensive to duplicate, however keys for cars that have key fobs and other features cost more because they are more difficult to duplicate and require a special machine. The cost of a key also depends on the quantity you'd like to copy.
The most popular types of car keys are normal keys, which are cheap to duplicate and do not require any programming. Transponder keys are used in modern vehicles and cost more to duplicate as they have to be programmed for your vehicle. Furthermore, some key fobs include transponder chips in them that must be programmed also.
Depending on the kind of key, the type of duplication machine used, as well as the cost of the key blank, the overall cost could range from $25 and $300. If you're looking to get the most value on key duplications, look for a professional who is an associate member of Associated Locksmiths of America.
In addition to the costs of the key blank as well as the duplication machine, you'll also need to pay for labor when you require a new key. Depending on the kind of key, this may be as little as $10, however, it may be higher if you're required to pay for a new fob or a professional to visit your workplace or home. To save money, you can try to find the key cutter or locksmith that offers a free estimate. This means you'll know what you can expect before you sign up for the services. This is important if you are replacing a key that requires a machine to duplicate.
Cost of Programming
The cost of replacing lost keys is mostly based on the cost of cutting new keys for cars. A car locksmith must program the new key in order that it matches your existing one. This could be a lengthy process. The cost of programming the new key is determined by the model, year and model of your car. The type of key you need can also affect the price. The more advanced types of keys require a transponder chip that is programmed to start your car. This can help prevent car thefts and also provides additional security.
The most common car keys are simple, flat blade. Keys of this kind can be cut by an locksmith or a hardware store or even at large box stores. Duplicating a flat blade key costs between $5 to $10. High security keys are more difficult to duplicate as they have a complicated design. The additional security feature makes them more expensive and requires a more specific cutting machine.
Transponder chips can be found on the keys of a majority of modern cars. They must be paired with the vehicle in order to function. It is important to have spare keys for cars. If you lose your car keys, a professional will need to replace the chip in the key to allow it to start your vehicle. The process is easy however it takes a bit of time.
Many big box stores provide duplication services for car keys, but they are not equipped to program the latest transponder keys. Additionally, some independent auto repair shops and dealerships don't have the equipment needed to accomplish this. This is why it's essential to find a locksmith in your region who can make new keys for your vehicle.
The cost of a car key can vary between $50 and $400. The price of a car key fob will be determined by the type of it and whether or not it features an integrated remote. A separate fob that's not included in the key is typically around $75 to program. A key-and-fob combo will be more expensive and could cost as much as $300 to program. Switchblade keys, which have the key that folds into the fob that resembles a switchblade knife, will be more expensive to program as well.