The Cost of Car Key Cutting
Many car owners depend on the service of cutting keys for their cars. However, it's important to know the price of this service prior to making a decision.
Many hardware stores and box shops have key-cutting machines where you can easily make copies of your keys. These usually cost a few bucks.
Cost of Key Blanks
For basic key types like house keys, car keys, and key fobs, the cost of cutting them usually a couple of dollars. This is due to the fact that most hardware stores have a key duplication device that can cut these kinds of keys in one passage through the machine. This process uses the original key as a template and the blank key to be aligned with a specific cutter that cuts them both at the same time. This makes it simple to design an entirely new key that is identical to the original in terms of shape and size.
However, these simple machines aren't able to copy more advanced key types that make use of transponder chips or remote functions. These keys require an expert to program them on the spot before they can work with your vehicle. This is the reason why many prefer to see an expert locksmith or dealer when they lose their keys or need replacements.
Although most hardware stores have the ability to duplicate these more sophisticated keys but not all have the capability. If you own a brand new vehicle, you'll need to visit the dealership to purchase a duplicate key.
You could consider purchasing a set of keys with blanks from an online retailer to cut down on the cost. These packages are a fraction the cost of what you'd pay in a physical store and include blanks of different 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 was certain it was time to replace it, but he didn't want to spend $300 at a dealer. He searched for a solution, and discovered that some Ace Hardware stores had a software to assist him in creating an identical key that worked with the car Toyota. The only catch is that he needs to know the code for the RF chip molded into the back of his fob. He was able, thanks to YouTube to find the code for the new key and follow the directions.
Cost of Equipment
Car key cutting is a method which involves using tools to create an identical replacement for your vehicle's ignition keys. Modern car keys come with numerous anti-theft options like encryption, which ensures only the correct ignition key is able to start your vehicle. This technology is designed to discourage thieves from attempting to duplicate or tamper with your keys and make them more difficult for them to use. It is a specialized job that requires specialized equipment in order to make a perfect duplicate of your car key. A professional locksmith will have the proper equipment to ensure that the replacement key functions properly in all locks and is safe to use in your vehicle. A professional locksmith will offer a guarantee on their services. This is a great benefit if you're concerned about the quality of the service.
The cutting process of car keys starts with a fully functional working key being put into the lock to be copied. The original key is cut and the template for the new key is copied using a key duplication device. A blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine and both are simultaneously moved through the cutting mechanism, which creates the new key that is identical to the original. There are various types of key duplicating machines, including a single-key cutter as well as a dual-key cutter that is able to handle both mortice and key cylinders. In recent years, key duplication machines have become more advanced and come with software that enables them to cut the cuts in both traditional metal keys and smart transponder keys. The key duplication tools are more precise than traditional tools. This makes it harder for thieves to steal your car keys to do so without your knowledge.
Some stores for automobiles also offer key cloning which is a much simpler procedure than cutting keys. A representative will choose the right key blank that matches your model year, year, and make. Then, the blank will be traced by a machine to accurately duplicate the contours of the original key. However this method is not recommended for vehicles with integrated transponder chips since the copied key might not be able to start the vehicle.
Cost of Labor
In the past when you lost your car key, it was easy enough to visit an area hardware store or locksmith and obtain a replacement. Nowadays, cars are equipped with transponder chips and remote transmitters which make it harder to duplicate a key. The most common method to replace these kinds of keys is to visit the dealership, which can be costly.
Another aspect that affects the cost of car key replacement is the nature and complexity of the key. The basic house keys are affordable to duplicate, but keys for cars that have 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 key is also dependent on the quantity you'd like to duplicate.
Standard keys are the most popular type of car keys. They are simple to duplicate and don't require any programming. Transponder keys are used in modern vehicles and cost more to duplicate as they have to be programmed for your vehicle. Additionally, some keys have built-in transponder chips that must be programmed also.
Depending on the kind of key, the duplication equipment used, and the cost of the key blank, the overall cost can vary between $25 and $300. If you are looking 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 also be required to pay for labor when you require the replacement of a key. It could cost as low as $10, based on the type of key, but may be higher if you have to purchase a new fob or have a professional come to your home or office. You can save money by choosing a locksmith or cutter who can provide you with an estimate free of charge. You'll know what to expect and can decide whether to accept the service before you do. This is particularly important if you're replacing a car key that requires a special machine to duplicate it.
Cost of Programming
The cost of replacing keys lost is largely determined by the cost of cutting new car keys. A car locksmith needs to program the new key to match the existing one, which could be a time-consuming process. The price for 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. The more advanced types of keys require a transponder chip which is programmed to start your car. This helps to prevent theft of your car and provides additional security.
The most commonly used car key type is a flat, simple blade. 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 are more complex in design and are much harder to duplicate. The additional security feature can make them more expensive and requires a more specific cutting machine.
Transponder chips can be found on the keys of modern cars. These need to be linked to the vehicle for them to function. It is crucial to have spare keys for cars. A professional will need to replace the chip in your key if you lose it. The process is simple, but it does take some time.
While 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 do not have the equipment needed. This is why it is important to find a locksmith in your area who can program new keys for your vehicle.
The cost of a car fob can be anywhere between $50 and $400. This cost is influenced by the type of key used and whether it comes with a remote fob integrated into it or not. A separate fob that's not included in the key is typically about $75 to program. Key-and-fob combinations are more expensive and can cost as much as $300 to program. Switchblade keys, which include a key that folds into the fob that resembles the shape of a switchblade knife, are more expensive to program as well.