The Cost of Car Key Cutting
Car key cutting is a service many car owners rely on. It is important to know the cost prior to you make a choice.
Many hardware stores and box stores have key-cutting machines where you can easily make a copy of your keys. These typically cost a few dollars.
Cost of Key Blanks
The cost of cutting standard key types such as house keys, car key fobs, and key fobs is usually only a few dollars. Most hardware stores have key duplication machines that can cut keys in one pass. This process utilizes the original key as a template, and the blank key to align with a specialized cutter that cuts both at the same time. This allows you to easily create a key that is exactly like the original in terms of size and shape.
However, these basic machines aren't able to duplicate more sophisticated key types that use transponder chips or remote functions. These keys usually require a professional to come onsite and program the key before they are able to use your vehicle. This is why many people prefer to go to a locksmith or dealership professional when they have lost their keys or require replacements.
While most hardware stores are able to duplicate these more sophisticated key types but not all have the capability. This means that if are driving a newer model vehicle you might need to visit the dealership to get a duplicate key made.
You could consider purchasing a set of keys with blanks from an online retailer to avoid the cost. These packages are available for a fraction of the cost you'd pay at the store, and include key blanks in various sizes and shapes. Key blanks in bulk allow you to make more copies of the same key for less cost.
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 looked for a solution, and found that some Ace hardware stores have an application that can assist him in creating a duplicate key that works with his Toyota. The only drawback is that he has to know the code for the RF chip molded into the end of the fob. Thanks to YouTube to locate the code for his new key and follow the directions.
Cost of Equipment
Car key cutting is a procedure that uses tools to create an identical replacement for your vehicle's ignition keys. Modern car keys come with several anti-theft features like encryption, which ensures only the correct coded ignition key is able to start your car. This technology is designed to deter thieves from trying to duplicate or alter your keys and make them more difficult to steal. Car key cut ting is a highly specialized service that requires special equipment to produce a perfect duplicate of the key in your car. A professional locksmith has the tools required to ensure that the replacement key is secure and can be used in all locks. A professional locksmith will give an assurance on their services. This is a huge advantage if you're worried about the quality of the service.
The cutting process of car keys begins with a fully functional, working original key being placed in the lock to be copied. A key duplication machine is used to copy the cut on the end of the original key which serves as a model for the new key. A blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine, and both are moved simultaneously through the cutting mechanism, which creates the new key that matches the original perfectly. There are many kinds 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 years, key duplication tools have advanced and come with software that allows them to cut cuts in both traditional metal keys and smart transponder keys. Key duplication machines are more precise than the traditional tools. This makes it more difficult for thieves who take your car keys to do it without your knowledge.
Some auto stores offer key cloning which is a much simpler process than cutting keys. To accomplish this associates will take your existing key and choose a blank key that is compatible with your year, model and model. Then, the blank will be traced by a machine to accurately duplicate the contours of the original key. However this method is not advised for vehicles equipped with transponder chips since the copied key may not be able to start the vehicle.
Cost of Labor
In the past, you could easily obtain a replacement key from a local locksmith or hardware store if you lost your key. Modern cars have transponder chips and remote transmitters that make it more difficult to duplicate a car key. Typically, the only option to replace these kinds of keys is to visit the dealership, which could be costly.
Another factor that affects the cost of replacing a car key is the kind and complexity of the key. The process of copying the basic house keys is not expensive, however, keys for cars with key fobs or other features are more expensive because they require a separate machine and are more difficult to duplicate. The price of a duplicate key is contingent on the quantity of copies you need.
The most common types of keys for cars are normal keys, which are inexpensive to copy and don't require any programming. Transponder keys are used in modern cars and they cost more to duplicate because they have to be programmed to your car. Furthermore, some key fobs come with transponder chips built-in, which require programming also.
The cost of duplicating keys can vary between $25 and $300 based on the type of keys, duplication machines used, and the price of the blank key. To get the best price on key duplication, look for a locksmith who is an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
In addition to the costs of the key blank as well as the duplication machine, you'll also have to pay for labor when you require a new key. It could be as low as $10 based on the type of keys however, it could be higher if you're required to pay for a replacement fob or to bring a professional to your home or office. You can save money by finding a locksmith or key cutter that will give you an estimate for free. You'll be aware of what you can expect and can decide whether to accept the offer before you decide. This is crucial if you are replacing keys that require a machine to duplicate.
Cost of Programming
The cost of replacing keys lost is mostly based on the cost of cutting new car keys. A car locksmith must program the new key so that it matches your existing one. This is an extensive process. The cost of programming a key is influenced by the year, make and model of your vehicle. It is also affected by the kind of key you require. Transponder chips are needed for the more advanced keys to start your vehicle. This helps to prevent car thefts and provides extra security.
The most common kind of car key is one that is simple and flat. These keys can be manufactured by a locksmith or hardware store, or even big box stores. Making a duplicate of a flat blade key costs between $5 to $10. High security keys are more difficult to duplicate as they have a complex design. They are more expensive due to the additional security and require a more advanced machine to cut them.
The majority of modern cars are equipped with transponder chips in their keys, which must be paired with the vehicle in order to function. This is why it is essential to have a spare set of keys for your car. If you lose your car keys, a professional will need to replace the chip in the key in order for it to be able to start your vehicle. The process is straightforward however it takes a bit of time.
Although the majority of big box stores offer duplicate car keys, they don't usually have the ability to program newer transponder keys. Some independent auto repair shops or dealerships don't have the right equipment. This is why it is essential to find a locksmith in your region who can make new keys for your vehicle.
The cost of car key fobs can vary between $50-$400. The cost varies based on the type of key used and whether it has a remote fob built into it or not. A separate fob, not connected to the key, will cost $75 to program. Programming a key-and fob combination can be costly, ranging from to $300. Switchblade keys that have keys that fold in the fob to resemble the shape of a switchblade and is more expensive to programme.