The Cost of Car Key Cutting
Car key cutting is a service that many car owners depend on. It's important to know the cost prior to you make a decision.
Hardware stores and box stores usually have key-cutting kiosks where you can create copies of your keys. These kiosks usually cost you only a few dollars.
Cost of Key Blanks
The cost of cutting standard key types such as house keys, car key fobs, and key fobs is usually a few dollars. The majority of hardware stores have key duplication machines which can cut these keys in a single pass. The process utilizes the original key as template, and then the blank key is lined up with a specific cutter that cuts both keys at once. This allows you to easily create a key exactly like the original in terms of size and shape.
But, these devices aren't able copy more advanced key types that make use of transponder chips or remote functions. These keys require the expertise of a professional to program them on-site before they will work with your vehicle. Many people will go to a professional locksmith or dealership for replacement of their keys.
Not all hardware stores can duplicate these key types of advanced technology. If you have a newer car, you will need to visit the dealership to obtain a duplicate key.
If you want to avoid this expense, consider purchasing an empty key blank from an online retailer. These packages are less than what you would pay in a physical store and include blanks of all shapes and sizes. Key blanks are also available in bulk, which allows you to make multiple copies for less per key.
A few years ago, Ron Sparer lost his car key. He was aware that he would require a replacement but didn't want $300 to be spent at the dealer. He searched for a solution and found 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 he has to know the code of the RF chip molded into his fob. Fortunately the keymaker was able to find the code and follow directions on YouTube to make his new key work.
Cost of Equipment
The cutting process for keys for cars requires tools to create an ignition key that's identical to the original. Modern car keys come with numerous anti-theft options like encryption, which ensures only the right coded ignition key can start your vehicle. This technology is designed to stop thieves from attempting to duplicate or alter 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 a replacement key is secure and can be used in all locks. They also provide a warranty on their services which is a major advantage if you are worried about the quality of their work.
The process of cutting car keys starts with a fully functional, working original key being put into the lock to be copied. The key that was cut is then the template for the new one is copied using a key duplication device. A blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine and both are pushed through the cutting mechanism, which creates an entirely new key that is exactly like the original. There are different types of key duplicating machines including a single key cutter as well as a dual key cutter that can work with both cylinder and mortice keys. In recent years, key duplication machines have become more sophisticated and are fitted with software that allows them to cut both traditional keys made of metal and smart transponder ones. These key duplication tools are more precise than traditional 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 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. The blank key is then traced by machine to accurately duplicate the contours of the original. This method is not recommended if your car includes a transponder chip in it, as it might not allow you to start your car using the copied key.
Cost of Labor
In the past, if you lost your car keys it was simple enough to just go to the local hardware store or locksmith to purchase a new key. But, modern cars have transponder chips and remote transmitters which make it difficult to duplicate keys. In auto key cutting machine , the only option to replace the keys is to visit the dealership. This can be costly.
Another aspect that affects the cost of car key replacement is the kind and complexity of the key. The basic house keys are affordable to duplicate, however keys for cars with key fobs and other features cost more because they take longer to copy and require a machine that is specially designed. The price of a duplicate key will depend on the number of copies you require.
The most common types of keys for cars are standard keys, which are inexpensive to duplicate and do not require any programming. Transponder keys are utilized in modern cars and they cost more to duplicate because they have to be programmed for your vehicle. Certain key fobs also have transponder chips in, which must be programmed.
Depending on the kind of key, the duplication machine used, as well as the cost of the key blank, the total cost can vary between $25 and $300. If you want to get the most value on key duplications you should find an expert who is a member of 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 require the replacement of a key. Depending on the kind of key, this could be as little as $10, but it could be more expensive if you have to pay for a new fob or a professional to come to your home or worksite. You can save money by finding a locksmith or key cutter that will give you a free estimate. You'll know what you can expect and can decide whether to accept the offer before you decide. This is especially important in the event that you need to replace keys that require an equipment to duplicate.
Cost of Programming
Key cutting for car keys is only one aspect of the overall cost for replacing lost keys to your car. A car locksmith must program the new key in order that it is compatible with your current one. This could be long. The cost for programming a key is influenced by the year, model and model of the vehicle. It could also be affected by the kind of key you require. The most advanced keys require a transponder chip which is programmed to start your vehicle. This prevents car theft and also provides additional security.
The most common car key type is a simple, flat blade. Keys can be made by a locksmith, a hardware store or even some big box stores. Duplicating a flat blade key costs between $5 and $10. Keys with high security however are more complex in design and are much harder to duplicate. They are more expensive because of the additional security and require a more sophisticated machine to cut them.
Modern cars are usually equipped with transponder chips inside their keys, which must be connected to the vehicle in order to function. It is important to have spare car keys. If you lose your car keys professional assistance is required to replace the chip inside the key to allow it to be able to start your vehicle. The procedure is easy however, it takes some time.
Many big box stores offer duplication services for car keys, but they're not equipped to program the latest transponder key. Some independent auto repair shops or dealerships also lack the necessary equipment. Therefore, it is essential to find a locksmith in your area who can program new car keys.
The price of car key fobs can vary between $50-$400. The cost of a car key fob is determined by its type and whether or not it comes with a built-in remote. A separate fob, that isn't included with the key will cost $75 to program. A key-and-fob combination will be more expensive and may cost up to $300 to program. Switchblade keys, with a the key that folds into the fob, resembling the shape of a switchblade knife, will be more expensive to program, as well.