The Cost of Car Key Cutting
Many car owners depend on the service of cutting keys for their cars. It's important to understand the price before you make a choice.
Box stores and hardware stores often have key-cutting kiosks which allow you to make an easy copy of your keys. knowing it cost you only a few dollars.
Cost of Key Blanks
For basic keys such as house keys, car keys and key fobs the cost of cutting them usually only a couple of dollars. This is due to the fact that most hardware stores have a key duplication device that can cut these kinds of keys in one run through the machine. This method uses the original key as an example, and the blank key is cut with a special cutter that cuts both keys at once. This lets you easily create a key that is identical to the original both in terms of size and shape.
These simple machines can't duplicate advanced key types, such as keys that have transponder chips or remote functions. They typically require an expert to visit and program the key before they can be used with your vehicle. This is why many people prefer to see a locksmith or dealer professional when they lose their keys or need replacements.
Although the majority of hardware stores have the ability to duplicate these more sophisticated key types, not all have the capability. If you own a brand new vehicle, you'll need to visit the dealership to obtain an identical key.
You could consider purchasing a set of keys that are blank from an online retailer to avoid the expense. These packages are less than what you would pay in a store and include blanks of all shapes and sizes. Key blanks are also available in bulk, allowing you to make multiple copies for a lesser cost per key.
Ron Sparer lost the key to his car a few years ago. He was certain the need for a replacement but he didn't want to spend $300 at a dealer. He began searching for a solution and discovered that some Ace hardware stores offer an application that will assist him in creating an identical key that will work with his Toyota. The only drawback is that he must know the code for the RF chip molded into the end of the fob. Fortunately, he was able to find the code and follow instructions on YouTube to get his new key working.
Cost of Equipment
Car key cutting is a process which involves using tools to make an identical replacement for your car's ignition keys. Modern car keys come with numerous anti-theft options such as encryption that ensures only the correct coded ignition key is able to start your vehicle. This technology is designed to discourage thieves from attempting to duplicate or alter your keys which makes them harder for them to use. It is a highly specialized task that requires specific equipment to create the perfect replica of your car keys. A professional locksmith will have the right equipment to ensure that your replacement key functions properly in all locks and is safe for use in your vehicle. They also offer an assurance on their services, which is an important benefit if you are concerned about the quality of their work.
The cutting process of car keys begins with a fully functioning, working original key being inserted into the lock to be copied. The original key is cut and the template for the new key is copied using a key duplication device. A blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine and both are simultaneously moved through the cutting mechanism, resulting in the new key that matches the original perfectly. There are many kinds of key duplicating machines, such as a single-key cutter, and a dual-key cutter which can handle both mortice and cylinder keys. In recent years, key duplication machines have advanced and are equipped with software that allows them to cut cuts in traditional keys as well as smart transponder keys. Key duplication machines are more precise than traditional tools. This makes it much more difficult for thieves who take your car keys to do this without your knowledge.
Some auto shops offer key cloning, which is an easier process than cutting keys. To accomplish this, an associate will take your key and select a matching blank key that is compatible with your year, make and model. 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 vehicle includes a transponder chip, as it may not allow you to start your car using the key copied.
Cost of Labor
In the past the past, if you lost your car key, it was easy enough to go to an area hardware store or locksmith to get a new one. Nowadays, cars are equipped with remote transmitters and transponder chips which make it difficult to copy keys. In most instances, the only way to replace the keys is to visit the dealership. This can be expensive.
The complexity and type of key also affect the cost. Basic house keys are inexpensive to duplicate, however car keys with key fobs and other features are more expensive because they are more complicated to duplicate and require a specific machine. The cost of a key is also dependent on the quantity you'd like to copy.
The most commonly used types of keys for cars are regular keys, which are cheap to copy and do not require any programming. However, modern cars have transponder keys, which are much more expensive to copy because they require programming to work with your car. Some key fobs also have transponder chips built in, which must be programmed.
The cost of key duplication could vary from $25 to $300 based on the type of keys, duplication equipment used, and the price of the blank key. To get the best prices on key duplication, look for a locksmith who is a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
You'll need to pay labor, as well as the cost of the duplication machines and key blanks in the event that you require an additional key. This could cost as little as $10 depending on the type of keys and the type of key, but it could be higher if you're required to purchase a replacement fob or to bring a professional to your house or workplace. To save money, try to find an expert key cutter or locksmith who offers a free estimate. You'll be aware of what you can expect and can decide whether to accept the offer before you do. This is especially important when you're replacing the car key, which requires an exact machine to duplicate it.
Cost of Programming
The cost of replacing keys lost is largely determined by the cost of cutting new car keys. A locksmith for cars has to program the new key in order that it is compatible with your current one. This could be an extensive process. The cost of programming the new key is determined by the year, model and make of your car. The type of key that you require will also affect the cost. The most advanced keys require a transponder chip which must be programmed to start your car. This can help prevent car thefts and provides extra security.
The most common car key type is a simple, flat blade. These keys can be made by a locksmith, a hardware store, or even big box stores. A flat blade key usually costs between $5 and $10 to duplicate. Keys with high security, on the other hand are more complex in design and are much harder to reproduce. The extra security feature can make them more expensive and requires a specialized cutting machine.
Transponder chips are found in the keys of a majority of modern cars. They must be paired to the vehicle to function. This is why it's important to have an extra set of keys for cars. If you lose your car keys an expert will have to replace the chip inside the key in order for it to start your vehicle. The process is easy but it can take a while.
Although many big box stores offer duplicate car keys but they're not usually equipped with the ability to program modern transponder keys. In the same way, many independent auto repair shops and dealerships don't have the necessary equipment to do this either. Therefore, it's important to find a local locksmith who can program new car keys.
The price of a car fob can range from $50 to 400 dollars. The cost of the car key fob is determined by the type of it and whether or not it has an integrated remote. A separate fob, not connected to the key, will cost $75 to program. Programming a key-and-fob combination can be expensive, costing up to $300. Switchblade keys that have the key that folds into the fob to resemble a switchblade, will also be more expensive to program.