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 choice.
Hardware stores and box stores usually have kiosks for cutting keys where you can make a simple copy of your keys. They usually cost a few bucks.
Cost of Key Blanks
The cost of cutting standard keys like house keys, car key fobs and key fobs is usually a few dollars. This is because most hardware stores have a key duplication machine that can cut these types of keys in one passage through the machine. This method uses the original as a template, and the blank key is positioned with a special cutter which cuts both keys simultaneously. This allows you to design a new key that matches the original in terms of shape and size.
These simple machines can't copy advanced key types like keys that utilize remote functions or transponder chips. These keys typically need an expert to visit and program the key before they can be used with your vehicle. This is the reason why many prefer to see a locksmith or dealership professional when they have lost their keys or require replacements.
Some hardware stores are unable to duplicate these key models. This means that if have a newer model car you might need to visit your dealership in order to have a duplicate key made.
If you want to avoid the cost, you can purchase a key blank package from an online retailer. These packages are available for only a fraction of what you would pay in a store and include blanks of all shapes and sizes. Bulk key blanks allow you to create more copies of the same key at a lower price.
Ron Sparer lost the key to his car a few years ago. He knew he would need a replacement, but did not want to spend $300 spent at the dealer. He searched for a solution and discovered that a few Ace Hardware stores had a program to help him create a duplicate key which worked with the car Toyota. The only drawback is that he has to be aware of the code of the RF chip that's integrated into the fob. He was able, thanks to YouTube, to find the code for the new key and follow the instructions.
Cost of Equipment
The cutting of keys for cars involves using tools to make a replacement ignition key that is identical. Modern car keys come with a number of anti-theft features such as encryption that ensures only the correct ignition key can start your car. This technology is intended to stop thieves from trying to duplicate or modify your keys. It is a highly specialized task that requires special equipment in order to make a perfect duplicate of your car key. A professional locksmith has the equipment required to ensure that a replacement key is secure and compatible with all locks. They will also offer an assurance on their services, which is an important benefit if you are concerned about the quality of their work.
The process of car key cutting typically begins with a fully functioning, working key that is inserted into a lock to be copied. The key that was cut is then the template for the new key is copied using a key duplication machine. The blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine, and both are simultaneously moved through the cutting mechanism. This results in a key that matches exactly the original. There are a variety of key duplicating machine, including a single key cutter as well as a dual key cutter that is able to handle mortice and cylinder keys. In recent times, key duplication machines have become more advanced and come with software that allows them to cut the cuts on both traditional metal keys and smart transponder keys. These key duplication machines are more precise than traditional tools. This makes it much more difficult for thieves who take your car keys to do it without knowing about it.
Some auto stores offer key cloning which is a much simpler process than cutting keys. A representative will choose a blank key compatible with your model year, year, and make. Then, the blank will be traced by a machine to accurately duplicate the contours of the original key. This method is not recommended if your car is equipped with a transponder chip with it, as it could not allow you to start your car with the key copied.
Cost of Labor
In the past, it was easy to obtain a replacement key from a local hardware or locksmith store if you had lost yours. 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.
The complexity and type of key also affect the price. Keys for houses are cheap to duplicate, but keys for cars that have key fobs and other features cost more because they are more complicated to duplicate and require a special machine. The price of a key also depends on the number you'd like to copy.
Standard keys are the most popular kind of car key. They are easy to duplicate and don't need any programming. Transponder keys are found in modern cars and they cost more to duplicate since they have to be programmed for your car. Additionally, some keys come with transponder chips built-in, which must be programmed as well.
The cost of duplicating keys can vary between $25 and $300 based on the type of keys, the duplication machines employed and the cost of the blank key. To get the best prices on key duplication, search for a professional who is part of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
You'll have to pay for labor in addition to the cost of duplication machines and key blanks when you need a replacement key. Depending on the kind of key, this could be as little as $10, however, it could be more expensive when you need to pay for a brand new fob or a professional to come to your workplace or home. You can save money by hiring a locksmith or key cutter who will provide you with an estimate free of charge. You'll know what to expect and can decide whether to take the service or not prior to deciding. This is particularly important if you're replacing the car key, which requires an exact machine to duplicate it.
Cost of Programming
Car key cutting is just a small part of the total cost of replacing lost keys to your car. A car locksmith needs to program the new key to match the existing one, which is a time-consuming process. The price for programming a key is determined by the year, model and model of your vehicle. It could also be affected by the type of key you require. The most advanced keys require a transponder chip that is programmed to start your vehicle. This helps to prevent theft of your car and also provides additional security.
The most commonly used type of car key is an easy, flat blade. These keys can be cut by an locksmith or a hardware store or even at some big box stores. Making a duplicate of a flat blade key costs between $5 to $10. Keys with high security on the other hand, have a more complex design and are harder to reproduce. The extra security feature can make them more expensive and requires a sophisticated cutting machine.
Modern cars are usually equipped with transponder chips on their keys. These chips must be paired with the vehicle in order to function. This is why it is vital 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 to allow it to be able to start your vehicle. The process is straightforward, but takes some time.
Many big box stores offer duplicate services for car keys, however they're not equipped to program the newer transponder keys. Similarly, some independent auto repair shops and dealerships do not have the tools needed to perform this task either. This is why it is essential to find a locksmith in your region who can make new keys for your car.
The price of a car fob could be anywhere between $50 and $400. The cost varies based on the type of key used and whether it includes a remote fob into it or not. A separate fob, which is not integrated with the key, will cost $75 to program. Programming a key-and-fob combination can be costly, and can cost up to $300. Switchblade keys with the key that folds into the fob to look like an actual switchblade as well, are more expensive to program.