The Cost of Car Key Cutting
Many car owners rely on the service of cutting keys for their cars. However, it's important to be aware of the costs associated with this service before making the decision.
Hardware stores and box stores usually have key-cutting kiosks where you can create copies of your keys. These usually cost a few bucks.
Cost of Key Blanks
The cost of cutting standard key types such as car keys, house keys fobs and key fobs is typically a few dollars. The majority of hardware stores have key duplication equipment which can cut these keys in a single pass. The process utilizes the original as template, and then the blank key is cut using a special cutter that cuts both keys at once. This lets you easily create a key identical to the original, both in terms of size and shape.
These basic machines aren't able to duplicate key styles that are more sophisticated like those that use transponder chips or remote functions. These keys require the expertise of a professional to program them on site before they can be used with your car. Many people will visit a professional locksmith or dealership when they need to replace their keys.
While most hardware stores are able to duplicate these more sophisticated keys however, not all stores do. This means that if own a car that is newer you might need to visit your dealership to get a duplicate key made.
If you'd like to avoid the cost, you can purchase key blanks from an online retailer. These packages are available at a fraction of the price that you would spend at the store, and they include key blanks of various shapes and sizes. Bulk key blanks allow you to make multiple copies of the same key for a lower price.
Ron Sparer lost the key to his car years ago. He knew the need for a replacement however, he didn't want pay $300 to the dealer. He searched for a solution, and discovered that some Ace Hardware stores had a program to assist him in creating an identical key that worked with his Toyota. The only catch is he has to be aware of the code of the RF chip molded into his fob. He was able, thanks to YouTube to find the code for his new key and follow the directions.
Cost of Equipment
Car key cutting is a process that uses tools to make an identical replacement for your vehicle's ignition keys. Modern car keys come with a number of anti-theft features such as encryption that ensures only the correct ignition key can be used to start your vehicle. This technology is designed to deter thieves from trying to duplicate or alter your keys. It is a highly specialized task that requires specialized equipment in order to make a perfect replica of your car keys. A professional locksmith will have the proper equipment to ensure that your new key is functional in all locks and is safe for use in your vehicle. A professional locksmith will give the guarantee of their services. This is an excellent benefit if you're concerned about the quality of the service.
The process of cutting keys for cars usually begins with a fully functional, working original key that is then 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 simultaneously moved through the cutting mechanism, which creates an entirely new key that is identical to the original. There are various types of key duplicating machines including a single-key cutter and a dual-key cutter which can handle both mortice and key cylinders. In recent years, key duplication machines have advanced and are equipped with software that allows them to cut traditional keys made of metal as well as smart transponder keys. These key duplication systems are more precise than traditional tools, making it difficult for thieves to duplicate your car keys without knowledge.
Some auto shops offer key cloning services, which is a simpler procedure than key cutting. To accomplish this, an associate will use your existing key and select a matching blank key that is compatible with your year, make, and model. The key blank is traced using a machine to accurately duplicate the contours of the original. However, this method is not recommended for vehicles that have integrated transponder chips because the copied key may not be capable of starting the vehicle.
Cost of Labor
In the past, if you lost your car keys, it was easy enough to visit a local hardware store or locksmith to obtain a replacement. Modern cars have transponder chips and remote transmitters that make it harder to duplicate a car key. Typically, the only way to replace these kinds of keys is to go to the dealer, which can be expensive.
Another factor that determines the cost of car key replacement is the kind and complexity of the key. Keys for houses are cheap to duplicate, however keys for cars with key fobs and other features cost more because they take longer to copy and require a machine that is specially designed. The price of a key will also depend on the quantity you'd like to duplicate.
Standard keys are the most popular type of car keys. cutting car key are simple to duplicate and don't need any programming. Transponder keys are found in modern cars and they cost more to duplicate because they require programming to your car. Additionally, some key fobs include transponder chips in them that must be programmed also.
Depending on the type of key, the duplication machine used, as well as the cost of the key blank, the total cost can vary between $30 and $300. To get the best prices on key duplication, look for a professional who is an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
In addition to the expense of the key blank and the duplication machine, you'll be required to pay for labor when you require a new key. Depending on the type of key, this could be as low as $10, but it may be higher if you're required to purchase a new fob or for a professional to come to your home or worksite. You can save money by hiring a locksmith or key cutter that will give you an estimate for free. You'll know what to expect and you can decide if you want to take the service or not before you decide. This is important if you are replacing the key, which requires a machine to duplicate.
Cost of Programming
The cost of replacing lost keys is largely determined by the cost of cutting new car keys. A car locksmith must program the new key in order that it matches your existing one. This could be long. The cost of programming a new key is affected by the year, model and make of your vehicle. It is also affected by the type of key you require. The more advanced types of keys require a transponder chip that must be programmed in order to start your vehicle. This can help prevent car thefts and also provides additional security.
The most common car key is a flat, simple blade. Keys can be made by a locksmith, a hardware store or even some big box stores. The process of replicating a flat blade costs between $5 to $10. High security keys however are more complex in design and are more difficult to duplicate. They cost more due to the additional security and require a more sophisticated machine to cut them.
car key cut can be found on the keys of modern vehicles. These need to be paired to the vehicle for them to function. This is why it's 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 inside the key to allow it to start your vehicle. The process is easy but it can take a while.
While some big box stores provide car key duplication services however, they aren't always equipped with the capability to program newer transponder keys. Some independent auto repair shops or dealerships also lack the necessary equipment. This is why it is important to locate a locksmith in your area who can make new keys for your vehicle.
The cost of the car key fob could vary between $50-$400. The price is determined by the type of key used and whether it includes a remote fob 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 expensive, costing up to $300. Switchblade keys that have keys that fold in the fob, making it look like the shape of a switchblade, will also be more expensive to program.