Many car owners rely on the cutting keys for their vehicles. It's important to understand the price before you make a decision.
Many hardware stores and box shops have key-cutting equipment where you can easily cut a copy of your keys. These usually cost you a few dollars.
Cost of Key Blanks
For basic key types like car keys, house keys and key fobs the cost of cutting them is typically only a couple of dollars. Most hardware stores have key duplication equipment that can cut these keys in a single pass. This process uses the original key as a template and the blank key to be aligned with a specialized cutter that cuts both simultaneously. This allows you to design a new key that matches the original in shape and size.
These basic machines aren't able to duplicate advanced key types like those that use transponder chips or remote functions. These keys typically need a professional to come onsite and program the key before they can be used with your vehicle. This is why a lot of people prefer to go to a locksmith or dealership professional when they have lost their keys or require replacements.
Although most hardware stores have the ability to copy these more advanced keys however, not all stores do. If you own a brand new car, you will need to visit the dealership to obtain an identical key.
If you'd like to avoid the cost, you can purchase key blanks from an online retailer. They are less than what you would pay in a retail store and come with blanks of different sizes and shapes. Bulk key blanks allow you to create more copies of the same key at the lower cost.
A couple of years ago, Ron Sparer lost his car key. He knew he would need a replacement but did not want to spend $300 spent at the dealer. He searched for a solution, and discovered that some Ace Hardware stores had a program to help him create an identical key that worked with his Toyota. The only drawback is that he has to know the code of the RF chip integrated into the fob. He was able, thanks to YouTube to locate the code for the new key and follow the directions.
Cost of Equipment
The cutting of keys for cars requires tools to make a replacement ignition key that is the same. Modern car keys include various anti-theft features, such as encryption, which ensures that only the key that is coded correctly can be used to start your car. This technology is designed to deter thieves from trying to duplicate or tamper your keys. Car key cutting is a highly specialized service that requires specialized equipment to make a perfect replica of your car's key. A professional locksmith will have the right equipment to ensure that your replacement key is functional in all locks and is safe for use in your vehicle. They will also offer the guarantee of their services which is a major benefit if you're worried about the quality of their work.
The process of cutting car keys begins with a fully functional, 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 machine. The blank key is then placed on the opposite side of the machine and both are simultaneously moved through the cutting mechanism. This creates an exact key that is identical to the original. There are how much to get a car key cut of key duplicating equipment, such as a single-key cutter, and a dual-key cutter that is able to handle both mortice and key cylinders. In recent times, key-duplication tools have advanced and are equipped with software that allows them to cut both traditional keys made of metal and transponder keys that are smart. These key duplication machines are more precise than traditional tools. This makes it more difficult for thieves who take your car keys to do this without your knowledge.
Some auto stores offer key copying which is a simpler process than key cutting. A representative will choose the right key blank that matches your model year, make, and year. The blank key will be traced by a machine that can precisely duplicate the contours of the original key. However, this method is not recommended for vehicles with integrated transponder chips because the copied key might not be capable of starting the vehicle.
Cost of Labor
In the past, you could find a replacement key at an area hardware or locksmith store if you had lost your key. Modern cars are equipped with remote transmitters and transponder chip that make it harder to duplicate a car key. Typically, the only way to replace these keys is to visit the dealership, which could be expensive.
Another factor that determines the cost of replacing car keys is the nature and complexity of the key. The process of copying the basic house keys is inexpensive, but keys with key fobs or other features are more expensive as they require a special machine and are more difficult to copy. The price of a duplicate key will depend on the number of copies you need.
The most commonly used types of car keys are normal keys, which are inexpensive to copy and do not require any programming. Transponder keys are used in modern vehicles, and they cost more to duplicate as they have to be programmed for your car. Furthermore, some key fobs come with transponder chips built-in, which require programming in addition.
The cost of key duplication can vary from $25 to $300 based on the type of keys, duplication machines used, and the price of the blank key. To get the most competitive prices on key duplication, look for a locksmith who is an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
In addition to the expense of the key blank and the duplication machine, you'll need to pay for labor when you require an entirely new key. Depending on the type of key, this could be as low as $10, however it may be higher if you're required to pay for a brand new fob or for a professional to visit your home or worksite. You can save money by hiring a locksmith or key cutter who will provide you with an estimate for free. This means you'll know what to expect before you sign up for the services. This is particularly important if 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 car locksmith must program the new key in order that it matches your existing one. This can be long. The cost for programming a key is affected by the year, model and model of your car. The type of key that you need can also affect the cost. Transponder chips are needed for the more advanced keys that can start your car. This can help prevent car thefts and also provides additional security.
The most commonly used car key type is a simple, flat blade. These keys can be manufactured by a locksmith, a hardware store, or even big box stores. A flat blade key typically costs $5-$10 to duplicate. Keys with high security however, have a more complex design and are harder to reproduce. The extra security feature makes them more expensive and requires a specialized cutting machine.
Transponder chips are found in the keys of a majority of modern cars. They need to be paired to the vehicle for them to function. It is essential to have spare keys for cars. A professional will need to replace the chip on your key if you lose it. The process is easy 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 latest transponder key. Additionally, some independent auto repair shops and dealerships don't have the tools needed to accomplish this. This is why it's essential to locate an area locksmith who can program new keys for your vehicle.
The price of the car key fob could vary between $50 and $400. The cost of a car key fob is determined by the type of it and whether or not it features a built-in remote. A separate fob, which is not connected to the key, will cost $75 to program. Programming a key and fob combination could be expensive, costing up to $300. Switchblade keys with the key that folds into the fob to resemble a switchblade and is more expensive to program.
