The Cost of Car Key Cutting
Car key cutting is a service that many car owners depend on. However, it's essential to understand the cost of this service before making a decision.
Many hardware stores and box shops have key-cutting machines that you can easily cut copies of your keys. These usually cost a few bucks.
Cost of Key Blanks
The cost of cutting standard key types such as house keys, car key fobs and key fobs typically a few dollars. This is because most hardware stores have a key duplication machine that can cut these types of keys in one passage through the machine. This method uses the original as a template, and the blank key is positioned with a special cutter that cuts both keys at once. This makes it easy to create an entirely new key that is identical to the original in terms of shape and size.
These simple machines can't duplicate advanced key types like keys that have remote functions or transponder chips. These keys typically need an expert to visit and program the key before they are able to work with your vehicle. This is the reason why many prefer to visit an expert locksmith or dealer when they have lost their keys or require replacements.
Although most hardware stores have the ability to duplicate these more sophisticated keys but not all have the capability. If you own a brand new vehicle, you'll need to go to the dealership to purchase an identical key.
If you'd like to avoid this expense, consider buying key blanks from an online retailer. These packages are a fraction the cost of what you would pay in a retail store and come with blanks of different shapes and sizes. Bulk key blanks allow you to create more copies of the same key at less cost.
Ron Sparer lost the key to his car a few years ago. He knew he would need 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 to help him create a duplicate key which worked with his Toyota. The only drawback is that he has to know the code of the RF chip integrated into the fob. Thanks to YouTube to find the code for his new key and follow the directions.
Cost of Equipment
Car key cutting is a process that involves using tools to create a similar replacement for your vehicle's ignition keys. Modern car keys come with a range of anti-theft features, including encryption which ensures only the right key can start your vehicle. This technology is intended to discourage thieves from attempting to duplicate or alter your keys. Car key cutting is a special service that requires special equipment to produce a perfect duplicate of the key in your car. A professional locksmith will have the proper equipment to ensure that your replacement key is functional in all locks and is safe for use in your vehicle. They also offer the guarantee of their services which is a major advantage if you are worried about the quality of their work.
The process of cutting car keys begins with a fully functioning working key being put into the lock to be copied. A key duplication machine is utilized to duplicate the cut on the top of the key which serves as a model for the new key. A blank key is then placed on the opposite side of the machine, and both are simultaneously moved through the cutting mechanism, which creates an entirely new key that is exactly like the original. There are various kinds of key duplicating machines including a single cutter and a dual key cutter that can handle both cylinder and mortice keys. In recent times, key duplication machines have become more advanced and have been equipped with software that enables them to cut the cuts in both traditional metal keys and smart transponder keys. These key duplication machines are more precise than the traditional tools. This makes it more difficult for thieves to steal your car keys to do so without your knowledge.
Some auto stores offer key cloning which is a much simpler process than key cutting. To complete this task associates 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 to accurately duplicate the contours of the original key. This method is not recommended if your car has a transponder chip integrated, as it may not allow you to start your car using the copied key.
Cost of Labor
In the past when you lost your car keys, it was easy enough to visit an area hardware store or locksmith to obtain a replacement. Modern cars come with remote transmitters and transponder chip that make it harder to duplicate a car key. Typically, the only option to replace these kinds of keys is to visit the dealership, which could be expensive.
The complexity and type of key will also determine the price. Duplicating basic house keys isn't expensive, but keys for cars with key fobs or other features are more expensive due to the fact that they require a special machine and are more difficult to duplicate. The price of a key will also depend on the number you'd like to duplicate.
The most common types of keys for cars are standard keys, which are inexpensive to copy and don't require any programming. Transponder keys are found in modern vehicles and cost more to duplicate as they need to be programmed for your car. Certain keys also come with transponder chips in, which must be programmed.
Depending on the kind of key, the duplication equipment used, and the cost of the key blank, the overall cost can range between $25 to $300. To get the best price for key duplication, look for a professional who is part of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
You'll have to pay for labor, in addition to the cost of key blanks and duplication machines in the event that you require replacement keys. This could cost as low as $10 based on the type of keys and the type of key, but it could be higher if you have to pay for a replacement fob or to have a professional come to your workplace or home. To save money, try to find a key cutter or a locksmith who offers a free estimate. You'll know what you can expect and you can decide if you want to accept the service before you decide. This is especially important if you're replacing a car key that requires a special machine to duplicate it.
Cost of Programming
Key cutting for car keys is only an aspect of the total cost of replacing lost car keys. A locksmith for cars must program the new key to match your current one, which is an extremely time-consuming process. The cost of programming the new key is determined by the year, model and make of your vehicle. It is also affected by the kind of key you require. The most advanced keys require a transponder chip which must be programmed in order to start your vehicle. This helps to prevent car thefts and also provides additional security.
The most popular car key is a flat, simple blade. These keys can be manufactured by a locksmith, hardware store or even some big box stores. The process of replicating a flat blade costs between $5 and $10. High security keys are more difficult to duplicate as they have a complicated design. They cost more due to the extra security and require a more specialized machine to cut them.
Transponder chips are present in the keys of modern vehicles. They need to be connected to the vehicle for them to function. This is why it's vital to have an extra set of keys for your car. If you lose your car key professional assistance is required to replace the chip in the key to allow it to start your car. The process is straightforward however it takes a bit of time.
Although many big box stores offer car key duplication services however, they aren't always equipped with the ability to program newer transponder keys. In the same way, many independent auto repair shops and dealerships don't have the necessary equipment to do this either. cutting key is why it's important to find a locksmith in your region who can program new keys for your car.
The cost of the car key fob could vary between $50 and $400. The price is determined by the type of key used and whether it comes with a remote fob integrated into it or not. A separate fob that's not integrated into the key is typically around $75 to program. A key-and-fob combo will be more expensive and can cost as much as $300 to program. Switchblade keys that have the key that folds into the fob to resemble the shape of a switchblade as well, are more expensive to program.