The Cost of Car Key Cutting
Many car owners rely on the cutting keys for their cars. However, it's important to understand the cost of this service prior to making an investment.
Hardware stores and box stores usually have kiosks for cutting keys which allow you to make a simple copy of your keys. These usually cost a few dollars.
Cost of Key Blanks
The cost of cutting the basic keys like car keys, house keys fobs and key fobs is typically a few dollars. This is due to the fact that most hardware stores have a key duplication device that can cut these types of keys with a single passage through the machine. This process uses the original key as a template and the blank key to align with a special cutter that cuts them both simultaneously. This allows you to create an entirely new key that is identical to the original in shape and size.
However, these simple machines can't duplicate more sophisticated key types which use transponder chips, or remote functions. These keys usually require a professional to come onsite and program the key before they are able to work with your vehicle. Many people will go to a professional locksmith or dealership for replacement of their keys.
There aren't many hardware stores that can duplicate these key types of advanced technology. This means that if you own a car that is newer you might have to visit your dealership in order to have a duplicate key made.
Consider purchasing a set of keys that are blank from an online retailer to avoid the expense. These packages can be purchased at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a retailer, and include key blanks in various sizes and shapes. Bulk key blanks allow you to create more copies of the same key at less cost.
Ron Sparer lost the key to his car years ago. He knew he would need an alternative, but he did not want to pay $300 to be spent at the dealer. He searched for a solution, and discovered that some Ace Hardware stores had a program that could assist him in creating an identical key that would work with the car Toyota. The only limitation is that you must be aware of the code of the RF chip embedded into the fob. Fortunately the keymaker was able to find the code and follow instructions on YouTube to make his new key work.
Cost of Equipment
Car key cutting is a process that uses tools to create an identical replacement for your car's ignition keys. Modern car keys have numerous anti-theft options such as encryption that ensures only the correct coded ignition key can start your vehicle. This technology is designed to stop thieves from trying to duplicate or alter your keys which makes them harder for them to use. Car key cutting is a highly specialized service that requires specialized equipment to produce a perfect replica of your car's key. A professional locksmith will have the proper equipment to ensure that your new key works properly in all locks and is safe to operate your vehicle. A professional locksmith will give an assurance on their services. This is a great benefit if you're concerned about the quality of the service.
The process of cutting car keys begins with a fully functioning working key being placed in the lock to be copied. A key duplication machine is used to copy the cut on the top of the original key which serves as a model for the new key. A blank key is then positioned on the opposite side of the machine and both are simultaneously moved through the cutting mechanism, which creates a new key that is exactly like the original. There are many kinds of key duplicating machines including a single-key cutter as well as a dual-key cutter which can handle both mortice and cylinder keys. In recent times, key-duplication tools are more advanced and come with software that allows them to cut both traditional metal keys as well as transponder keys that are smart. Key duplication systems are more precise than traditional tools, which makes it harder for thieves to duplicate your car keys without your knowledge.
Some auto shops also offer key cloning which is a much simpler procedure than cutting keys. To perform this task, an associate will take 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 to accurately duplicate the contours of the original key. However this method is not advised for vehicles equipped with transponder chips because the copied key may not be capable of starting the vehicle.
Cost of Labor
In the past the past, if you lost your car keys it was simple enough to visit the local hardware store or locksmith shop and purchase a new key. Modern cars are equipped with transponder chips and remote transmitters that make it harder to copy a car key. Typically, the only option to replace these keys is to visit the dealer, which can be costly.
The complexity and the type of key will also determine the cost. Duplicating basic house keys is not expensive, however, keys for cars with key fobs or other features are more expensive due to the fact that they require a separate machine and are more difficult to copy. The price of a duplicate key will depend on the number of copies you require.
The most common types of car keys are standard keys, which are inexpensive to duplicate and do not require programming. Transponder keys are utilized in modern cars and they cost more to duplicate since they require programming for your vehicle. Certain key fobs also come with transponder chips in, which must be programmed.
Depending on the kind of key, the type of duplication machine used, and the cost of the key blank, the total cost can range between $25 to $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 and the duplication machine, you'll also need to pay for labor when you need a new key. This can be as low as $10 based on the type of key, but may be higher if you're required to purchase a new fob or to have a professional come to your home or office. To save money, try to locate a key cutter or a locksmith that offers a free estimate. You'll know what you can expect and decide whether to accept the offer before you do. This is especially important if you're replacing a car key that requires special equipment to duplicate it.
Cost of Programming
The cost of replacing keys lost is mostly based on the cost of cutting new car keys. A car locksmith must program the new key so that it is compatible with your current one. This is long. The cost for programming a key is influenced by the year, make and model of your vehicle. It could also be affected by the type of key you require. Transponder chips are required for the more advanced keys to start your vehicle. This prevents car thefts and provides extra security.
The most common kind of car key is an easy, flat blade. These keys can be cut by a locksmith or a hardware shop or even at some big box stores. Duplicating a flat blade key costs between $5 and $10. Keys with high security are more difficult to duplicate as they have a complex design. The extra security feature makes them more expensive and requires a more sophisticated cutting machine.
Most modern cars come equipped with transponder chips on their keys. These chips must be connected to the vehicle in order for them to function. This is why it's important to have a spare set of car keys. A professional will have to replace the chip on your key in the event that you lose it. The process is simple, but it does take some time.
Although many big box stores offer car key duplication services, they don't usually have the ability to program modern transponder keys. In the same way, many independent auto repair shops and dealerships don't have the equipment needed to do this either. This is why it's crucial to find an area locksmith who can program new keys for your car.
The price of a car fob can range between $50 and $400. The cost of the car key fob is determined by the type and whether or not it has a built-in remote. car key cutting that isn't included in the key will typically cost around $75 to program. A key-and-fob combo will be more expensive and may cost up to $300 to program. Switchblade keys, which have keys that fold into the fob which resembles the shape of a switchblade knife, will be more expensive to program as well.