The Cost of Car Key Cutting
Many car owners rely on the service of cutting keys for their cars. It's crucial to understand the cost of this service prior to making an investment.
Many hardware stores and box stores have key-cutting equipment where you can easily create a copy of your keys. These will typically cost a few dollars.
Cost of Key Blanks
The cost of cutting basic key types such as car keys, house keys fobs, and key fobs is usually a few dollars. Most hardware stores have key duplication machines that can cut keys in one move. This process utilizes the original key as a model and the blank key to align with a special cutter that cuts both simultaneously. This allows you to create the new key that is a match to the original in terms of shape and size.
However, these basic machines aren't able to copy more advanced key types which use transponder chips, or remote functions. These keys require a professional to program them on-site before they will work with your car. Many people will visit a professional locksmith or a dealership in the event that they need to replace their keys.
Although most hardware stores are able to duplicate these more sophisticated key types, not all do. If you own a brand new car, you will need to visit a dealership to obtain a duplicate key.
Consider purchasing a set of keys with blanks from an online retailer to cut down on the cost. These packages are only a fraction of what you'd pay in a store and include blanks of all sizes and shapes. Key blanks in bulk allow you to create more copies of the same key for less cost.
A few years ago, Ron Sparer lost his car key. He was aware that he would require an alternative, but he did not want to spend $300 spent at the dealer. He searched for a solution, and found that some Ace hardware stores offer an application that will help him create a duplicate key that works with his Toyota. The only catch is that he needs to know the code for the RF chip molded into the back of his fob. Fortunately it was possible to locate the code and follow directions on YouTube to make his new key work.
Cost of Equipment
The cutting of keys for cars requires tools to create an ignition key that is the same. Modern car keys come with several anti-theft features such as encryption that ensures only the correct coded ignition key can be used to start your vehicle. This technology is intended to deter thieves from trying to duplicate or tamper your keys. Car key cutting is a special service that requires specialized equipment to create a flawless copy of your car's key. A professional locksmith will have the equipment required to make sure that the key replacement is secure and can be used in all locks. They also offer the guarantee of their services which is a major advantage if you are worried about the quality of their work.
car key cutting cost of car key cutting typically begins with a fully functional, working original key that is then inserted into the lock to be copied. A key duplication machine is then used to copy the cut at the end of the key which serves as a template for the new key. The blank key is then placed on the other side of the machine and both are simultaneously moved through the cutting mechanism. This produces an exact key that is identical to the original. There are many kinds of key duplicating equipment, including a single-key cutter and a dual-key cutter that is able to handle both mortice and key cylinders. In recent years, key-duplication machines have become more sophisticated and are fitted with software to enable them to cut both traditional metal keys as well as transponder keys that are smart. These key duplication systems are more precise than conventional tools, making it harder for thieves to duplicate the keys to your car without knowledge.
Some auto shops offer key copying which is a simpler procedure than cutting keys. To complete this task, an associate will use your existing key and select a matching blank key that is compatible with your year, make and model. Then, the key blank will be traced by a machine that can precisely duplicate the contours of the original key. This method is not recommended if the vehicle has a transponder chip integrated in it, as it might not allow you to start your car using the key that was copied.
Cost of Labor
In the past when you lost your car key it was simple to just go to an area hardware store or locksmith and get a new one. Modern cars have remote transmitters and transponder chip that make it more difficult to copy a car key. In the majority of instances, the only way to replace these keys is to go to the dealership. This can be costly.
The complexity and the type of key will also determine the cost. Keys for houses are cheap to duplicate, but keys for cars with key fobs and other features cost more because they are more complicated to duplicate and require a machine that is specially designed. The price of a duplicate key will depend on the number of copies you'll need.
The most common kinds of car keys are normal keys, which are inexpensive to copy and don't require any programming. However, modern cars have transponder keys, which are much more expensive to copy as they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. Some key fobs also have transponder chips built in, which must be programmed.
The cost of duplicating keys can vary from $25 to $300 based on the type of keys, the duplication machines employed and the cost of the blank key. To get the best price on key duplication, look for a professional who is an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
In addition to the cost of the key blank as well as the duplication machine, you'll be required to pay for labor when you need a new key. It could cost as little as $10 based on the type of keys however, it could be more if you need to pay for a replacement fob or bring a professional to your home or office. To save money, look for an expert key cutter or locksmith who offers a free estimate. This way, you'll know exactly what you can expect before you agree to the services. This is important if you are 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 for cars. A locksmith for cars must program the new key in order that it matches your existing one. This could be an extensive process. The cost of programming the new key is determined by the year, model and make of your vehicle. The type of key you require can also impact the price. The more sophisticated types of keys require a transponder chip which is programmed to start your car. This helps prevent car theft and also provides additional security.
The most commonly used car keys are flat, simple blade. Keys can be made by a locksmith or hardware store or even some big box stores. The process of replicating a flat blade costs between $5 to $10. Keys with high security are more difficult to duplicate because they have a complicated design. They are more expensive because of the additional security, and require a more sophisticated machine to cut them.
Transponder chips are present in the keys of a majority of modern cars. These need to be linked with the vehicle in order to function. This is why it is vital to have a spare set of keys for your car. A professional will have to replace the chip in your key if you lose it. The process is simple, but it does take some time.
Many big box stores offer duplicate services for car keys, however they are not equipped to program the latest transponder key. Some independent auto repair shops or dealerships don't have the right equipment. Therefore, it's important to locate a local locksmith who can program new car keys.
The cost of the car key fob could vary from $50 to $400. The price of the car key fob is determined by the type of it and whether or not it has a built-in remote. A separate fob that's not integrated into the key will typically cost about $75 to program. A key-and-fob combination will be more expensive and can cost up to $300 to program. Switchblade keys with a key that folds in the fob, making it look like an actual switchblade as well, are more expensive to program.