The Cost of Car Key Cutting
Car key cutting is a process that many car owners rely on. It's crucial to know the cost prior to you make a decision.
Many hardware stores and box shops have key-cutting equipment where you can easily create copies of your keys. These will typically cost only a few dollars.
Cost of Key Blanks
For basic key types like house keys, car keys, and key fobs, the cost of cutting them is usually just a few dollars. The majority of hardware stores have key duplication machines that can cut these keys in a single pass. This process uses the original key as a template, and the blank key to be aligned with a special cutter that cuts both simultaneously. This makes it simple to design an entirely new key that is identical to the original in shape and size.
These simple machines can't duplicate advanced key types, such as those that use remote functions or transponder chips. These keys require an expert to program them on the spot before they can work with your car. This is the reason why many prefer to go to a locksmith or dealership professional when they lose their keys or need replacements.
While most hardware stores are able to copy these more advanced key types but not all do. If you have a newer car, you will need to visit a dealership to purchase a duplicate key.
Consider purchasing a set of keys that are blank from an online retailer to cut down on the expense. These packages can be purchased at a fraction of price that you would pay at the store, and include key blanks of various shapes and sizes. Key blanks are also available in bulk, allowing you to create multiple copies for a lesser cost per key.
A few years ago, Ron Sparer lost his car key. He knew it was time to replace it, but he didn't want pay $300 to the dealer. He searched for a solution, and found that certain Ace hardware stores carry an application that can assist him in creating duplicate keys that work with his Toyota. The only drawback is that he must know the code for the RF chip molded into the top of 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 method that involves using tools to create an identical replacement for your car's ignition keys. Modern car keys include several anti-theft features like encryption, which ensures only the right coded ignition key can start your vehicle. This technology is designed to discourage thieves from attempting to duplicate or tamper with your keys, making them more difficult to access. Car key cutting is a specialized service that requires special equipment to produce a perfect replica of your car's key. A professional locksmith has the equipment required to ensure that a replacement key is safe and works in all locks. They also provide a warranty on their services which is a major benefit if you are concerned about the quality of their work.
The process of car key cutting generally begins with a functioning, working key that is then inserted into the lock to be copied. A key duplication machine is then utilized to duplicate the cut at the end of the original key which serves as a model for the new key. The blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine and both are simultaneously pushed through the cutting mechanism. This produces an exact key that is identical to the original. There are auto key cutting of key duplicating machines such as a single-key cutter, and 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 that allows them to cut both traditional keys made of metal and transponder keys that are smart. Key duplication systems are more precise than conventional tools, making it difficult for thieves to duplicate your car keys without your knowledge.
Some automotive stores offer key cloning services, which is a simpler process than key cutting. An associate will select the right key blank that matches your model, year, and make. The key blank is traced by machine to accurately replicate the contours of the original. However this method is not recommended for vehicles with integrated transponder chips because the copied key may not be capable of starting the vehicle.
Cost of Labor
In the past, you could obtain a replacement key from a local hardware store or locksmith if you lost yours. Modern cars have transponder chips and remote transmitters that make it harder to copy a car key. Typically, the only way to replace these kinds of keys is to visit the dealership, which could be costly.
Another aspect that affects the cost of car key replacement is the kind and complexity of the key. Keys for houses are cheap to duplicate, however car keys with key fobs and other features cost more because they are more difficult to duplicate and require a machine that is specially designed. The cost of a duplicate key depends on the number of copies you'll need.
The most common types of keys for cars are regular keys, which are affordable to copy and do not require any programming. However, modern cars use transponder keys, which are more expensive to copy as they must be programmed to work with your car. Certain key fobs also have transponder chips in, which must be programmed.
The cost of key duplication could vary between $25 and $300 based on the type of keys, the duplication machines employed, and the price of the blank key. If you want to get the best price on key duplications, find 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 have to pay for labor when you need the replacement of a key. Depending on the kind of key, this could be as low as $10, but it may be higher if you're required to pay for a brand new fob or a professional to come to your workplace or at home. To save money, you can try to locate an expert key cutter or locksmith who offers a free estimate. You'll know what to expect and decide whether to accept the offer before you do. This is crucial when replacing a key that requires the use of a machine to duplicate.
Cost of Programming
Car key cutting is just an aspect of the total cost of replacing lost keys to your car. A car locksmith needs to program the new key to match your existing one, which can be an extremely time-consuming process. The cost of programming a new key is affected by the year, model and make of your car. It is also affected by the type of key you require. Transponder chips are needed for the more advanced keys to start your car. This can help prevent car thefts and adds security.
The most popular kind of car key is one that is simple and flat. Keys of this kind can be cut by a locksmith or a hardware shop or even at large box stores. A flat blade key usually costs between $5 and $10 to duplicate. High security keys on the other hand, have a more complex design and are 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 most modern automobiles. They need to be paired to the vehicle to function. It is crucial to have spare 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 start your car. The process is straightforward however it takes a bit of time.
While some big box stores provide car key duplication services however, they aren't always equipped with the ability to program newer transponder keys. Some independent auto repair shops or dealerships do not have the equipment needed. Therefore, it's important to find a locksmith in your area who can program new car keys.
The price of car key fobs can vary between $50-$400. The cost of a car key fob will be determined by the type and whether or not it features a built-in remote. A separate fob that is not integrated into the key will typically cost about $75 to program. Key-and-fob combinations are more expensive and may cost up to $300 to program. Switchblade keys, which have keys that fold into the fob, resembling an switchblade knife, will be more expensive to program, as well.