Many car owners rely on the cutting keys for their cars. However, it's important to be aware of the costs associated with this service before making an investment.
Many hardware stores and box stores have key-cutting machines where you can easily cut a copy of your keys. These typically cost you a few dollars.
Cost of Key Blanks
For basic keys such as car keys, house keys, and key fobs, the cost of cutting them usually a couple of dollars. This is because most hardware stores have a key duplication machine that can cut these kinds of keys in a single pass through the machine. This process utilizes the original key as a template, and the blank key to be aligned with a specific cutter that cuts them simultaneously. This allows you to create a key exactly like the original in terms of size and shape.
However, these simple machines can't copy more advanced key types which use transponder chips, or remote functions. These keys require a professional to program them on the spot before they can work with your car. Many people will visit an expert locksmith or dealership when they need to replace their keys.
Although most hardware stores have the ability to copy these more advanced keys however, not all stores have the capability. This means that if have a newer model car you might have to visit your dealer in order to have a duplicate key made.
If you'd like to avoid this expense, consider buying key blanks from an online retailer. They are only a fraction of what you'd pay in a physical store and include blanks of different shapes and sizes. Bulk key blanks allow you to make more copies of the same key at a lower price.
Ron Sparer lost the key to his car years ago. He was certain he needed a replacement, but he didn't want spend $300 at a dealer. He searched for a solution and discovered that a few Ace Hardware stores had a software to help him create an identical key that would work with his Toyota. The only limitation is that you need to know the code of the RF chip that's integrated into the fob. Fortunately, he 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 method that uses tools to create an identical replacement for your vehicle's ignition keys. Modern car keys have a number of anti-theft features like encryption, which ensures only the correct ignition key is able to start your car. This technology is designed to discourage thieves from attempting to duplicate or alter your keys, making them more difficult for them to use. Car key cutting is a highly specialized service that requires specific equipment to make a perfect duplicate of the key in your car. A professional locksmith will have the equipment required to make sure that the replacement key is secure and compatible with all locks. A professional locksmith will give a guarantee on their services. This is a great advantage if you're worried about the quality of the service.
The cutting process of car keys starts with a fully functional, working original key being put into the lock to be copied. A key duplication machine is used to copy the cut at the end of the original key, which acts as a template for the new key. The blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine, and both are simultaneously pushed through the cutting mechanism. This results in a key that matches exactly the original. There are various types of key duplicating equipment, 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 traditional keys made of metal as well as smart transponder keys. These key duplication machines are more precise than the traditional tools. This makes it much more difficult for thieves who steal your car keys to do this without knowing about it.
Some stores for automobiles also offer key cloning which is a less complicated procedure than key cutting. A representative will choose a blank key compatible with your model, year, and make. The key blank is traced by a machine to precisely duplicate the contours of the original. This method is not recommended if the vehicle is equipped with a transponder chip in it, as it might not allow you to start your car with the key that was copied.
Cost of Labor
In the past the past, if you lost your car key it was simple enough to just go to a local hardware store or locksmith to get a new one. Modern cars are equipped with remote transmitters and transponder chip which make it difficult to duplicate a car key. The most common method to replace these kinds of keys is to visit the dealer, which can be expensive.
The complexity and type of key also determine the price. The process of copying the basic house keys is inexpensive, but car keys that have key fobs or other features are more expensive due to the fact that they require a specific machine and are more difficult to copy. The cost of a duplicate key will depend on the quantity of copies you'll need.
car keys cut used types of keys for cars are normal keys, which are inexpensive to duplicate and do not require programming. However, modern cars utilize transponder keys, which are more expensive to copy as they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. Certain keys also have transponder chips built in that must be programmed.
The cost of key duplication can vary from $25 to $300 depending on the type of keys, duplication equipment used, and the price of the blank key. If you are looking to get the most value on key duplications you should find a professional who is a member of Associated Locksmiths of America.
You'll need to pay labor, as well as the cost of the key blanks and duplication machines when you need an additional key. It could cost 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 workplace or home. To save money, look for an expert key cutter or locksmith that offers a free estimate. You'll be aware of what you can expect and decide whether to accept the offer before you decide. This is especially important if you're replacing a car key that requires special equipment to duplicate it.
Cost of Programming
Car key cutting is just one 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 could be lengthy. The cost of programming the new key is determined by the year, model and model of your car. It can also be affected by the type of key you require. Transponder chips are required for more advanced keys to start your vehicle. This prevents car theft and adds additional security.
The most common kind of car key is one that is simple and flat. Keys of this kind can be cut by locksmiths or a hardware store or even at big box stores. The process of replicating a flat blade costs between $5 to $10. High security keys however, have a more complex design and are more difficult to reproduce. The extra security feature can make them more expensive and requires a specialized cutting machine.
Transponder chips are present in the keys of a majority of modern cars. These need to be paired to the vehicle to function. It is essential to have spare keys for cars. A professional will have to replace the chip in your key if you lose it. The process is straightforward however it takes a bit of time.
Many big box stores provide duplication services for car keys, but they are not equipped to program the newer transponder keys. Some independent auto repair shops or dealerships also don't have the right equipment. It is therefore important to find a local locksmith who can program new car keys.
The cost of car key fobs can vary between $50-$400. The price of the car key fob is determined by its type and whether or not it features an integrated remote. A separate fob that isn't integrated into the key will usually cost around $75 to program. Programming a key and fob combination could be expensive, costing up to $300. Switchblade keys with a key that folds in the fob, making it look like the shape of a switchblade and is more expensive to programme.
