The Cost of Car Key Cutting
Many car owners rely on the service of cutting keys for their vehicles. It's important to know the cost before you decide.
Box stores and hardware stores usually have kiosks for cutting keys where you can create a simple copy of your keys. These kiosks usually cost you just a few dollars.
Cost of Key Blanks
The cost of cutting the basic key types like car keys, house keys fobs, and key fobs is usually only a few dollars. This is because most hardware stores have a key duplication device which can cut these kinds of keys in a single passage through the machine. This process uses the original key as a template and the blank key to line up with a specialized cutter that cuts both simultaneously. This allows you to easily create a key that is identical to the original in terms of size and shape.
These basic machines aren't able to copy advanced key types, such as keys that utilize remote functions or transponder chips. These keys require the expertise of a professional to program them on site before they can work with your car. Many people will go to a professional locksmith or dealership when they need to replace their keys.
Although the majority of hardware stores are able to copy these more advanced key types, not all do. This means that if you own a car that is newer, you may need to visit your dealer to get a duplicate key made.
Consider purchasing a package of keys with blanks from an online retailer to cut down on the cost. These packages are only a fraction of what you would pay in a store and include blanks of different sizes and shapes. Bulk key blanks allow you to make more copies of the same key for less cost.
Ron Sparer lost the key to his car a few years ago. He knew the need for a replacement but he didn't want spend $300 at the dealer. He looked for a solution and found that some Ace Hardware stores had a program to help him create an identical key that would work with the car Toyota. The only drawback is that you must know the code of the RF chip that's molded into his fob. Fortunately it was possible to find the code and follow the instructions on YouTube to get his new key working.
Cost of Equipment
Car key cutting is a process that uses tools to create a similar replacement for your car's ignition keys. Modern car keys have numerous anti-theft options like encryption, which guarantees only the right coded ignition key can start your car. This technology is intended to discourage thieves from attempting to duplicate or alter your keys. It is a job that is highly specialized that requires specialized equipment to create a perfect replica of your car key. A professional locksmith will have the appropriate equipment to ensure that your replacement key is functional in all locks and is safe to operate your vehicle. They will also offer an assurance on their services, which is an important benefit if you're worried about the quality of their work.
The process of cutting car keys begins with a fully functioning working key being put into the lock to be copied. The key that was cut is then the template for the new one is copied using a key duplication device. The blank key is placed on the other side of the machine, and both are simultaneously moved through the cutting mechanism. This results in keys that are identical to the original. There are various kinds of key duplicating machines such as a single key cutter and a dual cutter that can work with mortice and cylinder keys. In recent times, key duplication machines are becoming more sophisticated and are equipped with software that enables them to cut the cuts in both traditional metal keys and smart transponder keys. These key duplication tools are more precise than traditional tools, making it harder for thieves to duplicate the keys to your car without knowledge.
Some auto shops offer key Cloning which is a simpler procedure than cutting keys. An associate will select keys that are compatible with your model year, year, and make. The blank key will be traced by a machine in order to precisely duplicate the contours of the original key. However, this method is not recommended for vehicles that have integrated transponder chips, as the copied key may not be capable of starting the vehicle.
Cost of Labor
In the past, if you lost your car key, it was easy enough to go to the local hardware store or locksmith and get a new one. Modern cars are equipped with remote transmitters and transponder chip that make it more difficult to copy a car key. In the majority of instances, the only option to replace the keys is to visit the dealership. This can be costly.
The complexity and type of key will also determine the price. Duplicating basic house keys isn't expensive, but keys for cars with key fobs or other features are more expensive as they require a separate machine and take longer to copy. The price of a duplicate key depends on the quantity of copies you require.
Standard keys are the most popular type of car key. They are simple to duplicate and don't require any programming. However, modern cars have transponder keys, which are more expensive to copy as they require programming to work with your vehicle. Additionally, some keys have built-in transponder chips that must be programmed in addition.
Depending on the type of key, the duplication machine used, as well as the cost of the key blank, the overall cost could range from $30 and $300. If you are looking to get the most value on key duplications you should find a professional who is an associate member of Associated Locksmiths of America.
In addition to the cost of the key blank as well as the duplication machine, you'll need to pay for labor when you require the replacement of a key. This could cost as little as $10 depending on the type of key, but may be more if you need to purchase a replacement fob or to call a professional to your workplace or home. You can save money by hiring a locksmith or key cutter who will provide you with a free estimate. This way, you'll know exactly what you can expect before you agree to the services. This is especially important when replacing the key, which requires the use of a machine to duplicate.
Cost of Programming
Key cutting for car keys is only one aspect of the overall cost of replacing lost keys for cars. A locksmith for cars needs to program the new key to match your current one, which is lengthy. The cost for programming a key is determined by the year, make and model of the vehicle. The type of key that you need can also affect the price. Transponder chips are needed for more advanced keys that can start your vehicle. This helps to prevent car thefts and provides extra security.
The most common car keys are flat, simple blade. These keys can be manufactured by a locksmith or hardware store or even some big box stores. Making a duplicate of a flat blade key costs between $5 and $10. High security keys however are more intricate in design and are much harder to reproduce. They cost more due to the additional security, and require a more sophisticated machine to cut them.
Most modern cars come equipped with transponder chips in their keys, which must be paired with the vehicle in order to work. It is important to have spare keys for your car. If you lose your car key an expert will have to replace the chip in the key in order for it to start your vehicle. auto key cutting is easy however it can take some time.
Many big box stores provide duplication services for car keys, however they are not equipped to program the latest transponder keys. In the same way, many independent auto repair shops and dealerships do not have the equipment needed to perform this task either. 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. This cost is influenced by the type of key used and whether it includes a remote fob into it or not. A separate fob that is not integrated into the key will typically cost about $75 to program. Programming a key and fob combination could be expensive, costing up to $300. Switchblade keys, which have the key that folds into the fob, resembling the shape of a switchblade knife, are more expensive to program as well.