The Cost of Car Key Cutting
Many car owners depend on the service of cutting keys for their cars. It is important to know the cost prior to you make a decision.
Many hardware stores and box stores have key-cutting equipment where you can easily make copies of your keys. These typically cost you a few dollars.
Cost of Key Blanks
For basic keys such as car keys, house keys, and key fobs, the cost of cutting them usually only a few dollars. The majority of hardware stores have key duplication equipment which can cut these keys in a single move. This process utilizes the original key as a model and the blank key to line up with a specialized cutter that cuts them both at the same time. This allows you to create a key identical to the original in terms of size and shape.
These basic machines aren't able to duplicate advanced key types like those that use remote functions or transponder chips. These keys require an expert to program them on-site before they can work with your car. This is why a lot of people prefer to visit a locksmith or dealer professional when they lose their keys or need replacements.
Not all hardware stores can duplicate these key models. This means that if you have a newer model car you might have to visit the dealership in order to have a duplicate key made.
If you want to avoid the cost, you can purchase an empty key blank from an online retailer. These packages are available for a fraction of the price that you would pay at a store, and they include key blanks in various sizes and shapes. Key blanks are also available in bulk, which allows you to create multiple copies for less per key.
Ron Sparer lost the key to his car a few years ago. He was certain it was time to replace it, but he didn't want to spend $300 at the dealer. He looked for a solution and discovered that certain Ace hardware stores have an application that can help him create an identical key that will work with his Toyota. The only catch is that he has to know the code for the RF chip which is 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 procedure which involves using tools to make an identical replacement for your vehicle's ignition keys. Modern car keys have various anti-theft features, including encryption which ensures only the right key will be able to start your vehicle. This technology is designed to deter thieves from trying to duplicate or tamper with your keys which makes them harder for them to use. It is a job that is highly specialized that requires specific equipment to create the perfect replica of your car key. A professional locksmith will have the equipment required to make sure that the replacement key is safe and works in all locks. A professional locksmith will give an assurance on their services. This is a huge advantage if you're worried about the quality of the service.
The process of car key cutting usually begins with a fully functional, working original key that is then inserted into the lock to be copied. A key duplication machine is then utilized to duplicate the cut on the top of the original key which acts as a template for the new key. A blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine and both are pushed through the cutting mechanism, which produces a new key that is identical to the original. There are a variety of key duplicating machines, such as a single-key cutter, and a dual-key cutter that can handle both mortice and key cylinders. In recent years, key-duplication machines are more advanced and come with software that allows them to cut traditional keys made of metal as well as transponder keys that are smart. Key duplication systems are more precise than conventional tools, which makes it more difficult for thieves to duplicate the keys to your car without knowledge.
Some auto shops offer key cloning services which is a much simpler process than cutting keys. An associate will select a blank key compatible with your model year, make, and year. The blank key will be traced by a machine that can precisely 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 get a replacement key at a local hardware store or locksmith if you lost your key. Modern cars come with remote transmitters and transponder chip which make it difficult to copy a car key. Typically, the only option to replace these keys is to visit the dealer, which can be expensive.
automotive key cutting and type of key will also determine the price. The basic house keys are affordable to duplicate, but car keys with key fobs and other features cost more because they are more difficult to duplicate and require a special machine. The price of a duplicate key is contingent on the quantity of copies you require.
The most commonly used types of car keys are regular keys, which are inexpensive to duplicate and do not require programming. However, modern cars use transponder keys, which are more expensive to copy because they must be programmed to work with your car. Additionally, some keys come with transponder chips built-in, which require programming also.
Depending on the kind of key, the duplication machine used, and the cost of the key blank, the total cost can range between $25 to $300. To get the best price on key duplication, search for a professional that is an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
You'll need to pay labor, as well as the cost of duplication machines and key blanks in the event that you require an additional key. Based on the type of key, this can be as little as $10, however it could be more if you're required to pay for a new fob or for a professional to visit your workplace or at home. To save money, you can try to find a key cutter or a locksmith who provides a no-cost estimate. You'll know what you can expect and can decide whether to take the service or not before you decide. This is especially important in the event that you need to replace a key that requires a machine to duplicate.
Cost of Programming
The cost of replacing keys lost is mostly based on the cost of cutting new car keys. A locksmith for cars needs to program the new key to match the existing one, which can be an extremely time-consuming process. The cost of programming a new key is influenced by the year, model and make of your car. The type of key you require can also impact the price. Transponder chips are needed for the more advanced keys that can start your car. This helps prevent car theft and provides additional security.
The most commonly used car key is a flat, simple blade. These types of keys can be cut by an locksmith or a hardware store or even at big box stores. Duplicating a flat blade key costs between $5 and $10. Keys with high security however are more intricate in design and are much harder to reproduce. The additional security feature is why they are more expensive and requires a specific cutting machine.
Transponder chips can be found on the keys of a majority of modern automobiles. They need to be connected to the vehicle to function. It is important to have spare keys for your car. If you lose your car key an expert will have 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 many big box stores offer duplicate car keys but they're not usually equipped with the ability to program modern transponder keys. Similarly, some independent auto repair shops and dealerships do not have the necessary equipment to do this either. This is why it is crucial to find an area locksmith who can create new keys for your car.
The price of car key fobs can vary between $50 and $400. The price of the car key fob is determined by the type and whether or not it has a built-in remote. A separate fob, that isn't included with the key will cost $75 to program. Programming a key-and fob combination can be expensive, costing up to $300. Switchblade keys with a key that folds in the fob to resemble a switchblade and is more expensive to programme.