The Cost of Car Key Cutting
Car key cutting is a process that many car owners depend on. However, it's essential to understand the cost of this service prior to making a decision.
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 standard key types such as car keys, house keys fobs and key fobs usually a few dollars. The majority of hardware stores have key duplication machines which can cut these keys in a single pass. This process uses the original key as template, and then the blank key is positioned with a specific cutter that cuts both keys at once. This allows you to create a key that is identical to the original both in terms of size and shape.
But, these machines aren't able to copy more advanced key types that make use of transponder chips or remote functions. These keys typically need the assistance of a professional and program the key before they can work with your vehicle. Many people will visit a professional locksmith or a 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 have a newer model car, you may need to visit the dealership in order to have a duplicate key made.
Consider purchasing a package of blank keys from an online retailer to avoid the cost. These packages are available at a fraction of price that you would pay at a store, and include key blanks of various dimensions and shapes. Key blanks are also available in bulk, allowing you to make multiple copies for a lesser cost per key.
A couple of years ago, Ron Sparer lost his car key. He was certain he needed a replacement, but he didn't want spend $300 at a dealer. He searched for a solution, and found that some Ace hardware stores carry a program that can assist him in creating an identical key that will work with the car Toyota. The only catch is he has to know the code of the RF chip that's embedded into the fob. He was able, thanks to YouTube to locate the code for his new key and follow the directions.
Cost of Equipment
The process of cutting car keys involves using tools to create an ignition key that is identical. Modern car keys have a range of anti-theft features, such as encryption, which ensures that only the correct coded key can start your vehicle. This technology is designed to discourage thieves from attempting to duplicate or alter your keys and make them more difficult to steal. Car key cutting is a highly specialized service that requires specific equipment to create a flawless replica of your car's key. A professional locksmith has the tools necessary to ensure that the key replacement is safe and works in all locks. A professional locksmith will give the guarantee of their services. This is a great advantage if you're worried about the quality.
The process of cutting a car key usually begins with a fully functional, working original key that is inserted into the lock to be copied. A key duplication machine is utilized to duplicate the cut on the end of the original key which serves as a model for the new key. A blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine and both are moved simultaneously through the cutting mechanism, which produces an entirely new key that matches the original perfectly. There are a variety of key duplicating machines, such as a single key cutter as well as a dual key cutter that is able to handle mortice and cylinder keys. In recent years, key duplication machines have become more advanced and have been equipped with software that enables them to cut cuts in traditional keys as well as smart transponder keys. Key duplication machines are more precise than the traditional tools. replacement car key cutting makes it more difficult for thieves who steal your car keys to do it without your knowledge.
Some auto stores offer key cloning, which is an easier procedure than cutting keys. An associate will select a blank key compatible with your model year, make, and year. Then, the key blank 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 since the copied key may not be able to start the vehicle.
Cost of Labor
In the past when you lost your car keys it was simple enough to go to an area hardware store or locksmith and purchase a new key. Modern cars are equipped with remote transmitters and transponder chip that make it more difficult to copy a car key. Typically, the only way to replace these keys is to go to the dealership, which could be expensive.
The complexity and type of key will also determine the price. Basic house keys are inexpensive to duplicate, but keys for cars with key fobs and other features cost more because they are more difficult to duplicate and require a machine that is specially designed. The price of a key also depends on the quantity you'd like to have copied.
Standard keys are the most common kind of car key. They are easy to duplicate and don't require any programming. However, modern cars use transponder keys, which are much more expensive to copy because they require programming to work with your car. Certain keys also have transponder chips in, which must be programmed.
The cost of key duplication can vary from $25 to $300 depending on the type of keys, the duplication equipment used and the cost of the blank key. If you are looking to get the most value on key duplications, look for a professional who is an associate member of Associated Locksmiths of America.
You'll need to pay labor, in addition to the cost of the key blanks and duplication machines when you require an additional key. This could be as low as $10, based on the type of keys, but may be higher if you're required to purchase a new fob or have a professional come to your home or office. To save money, you can look for an expert key cutter or locksmith that offers a free estimate. You'll know what to expect and you can decide if you want to accept the service before you decide. This is especially important if you're replacing keys for your car that require an exact machine to duplicate it.
Cost of Programming
Key cutting for car keys is only an aspect of the overall cost of replacing lost keys to your car. replacement car key cutting for cars needs to program the new key to match the existing one, which can be lengthy. The cost for programming a key is affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle. It can also be affected by the kind of key you require. The most advanced keys require a transponder chip that must be programmed in order to start your car. This helps prevent car theft and also provides additional security.
The most popular car key is a flat, simple blade. These types of keys can be cut by an locksmith, a hardware store, or even at some big box stores. Making a duplicate of a flat blade key costs between $5 and $10. Keys with high security on the other hand, have a more complex design and are much harder to duplicate. The additional security feature is why they are more expensive and requires a more sophisticated cutting machine.
Most modern cars come equipped with transponder chips inside their keys, which must be paired with the vehicle to work. It is essential to have spare car keys. A professional will need to replace the chip on your key if you lose it. The process is simple however it can take some time.
Many big box stores provide duplication services for car keys, but they're not equipped to program the latest transponder key. Some independent auto repair shops or dealerships also do not have the equipment needed. This is why it's important to locate a locksmith in your region who can program new keys for your vehicle.
The price of car key fobs can vary between $50-$400. The cost varies based on the type of key and whether it has a remote fob built into it or not. A separate fob, that isn't connected to the key, will cost $75 to program. Key-and-fob combinations are more expensive and may cost as much as $300 to program. Switchblade keys, which have the key that folds into the fob that resembles a switchblade knife, are more expensive to program, as well.