The Cost of Car Key Cutting
Car key cutting is a service many car owners depend on. It's important to know the cost prior to you make a decision.
Many hardware stores and box stores have key-cutting machines where you can easily cut copies of your keys. These will usually cost you only a few dollars.
Cost of Key Blanks
For basic keys such as car keys, house keys and key fobs the cost of cutting them is usually a few dollars. Most hardware stores have key duplication machines which can cut these keys in a single move. This process uses the original key as template, and then the blank key is lined up with a special cutter that cuts both keys simultaneously. This allows you to easily create a key identical to the original in terms of size and shape.
These basic machines aren't able to copy advanced key types, such as keys that utilize transponder chips or remote functions. These keys typically need the assistance of a professional and program the key before they can be used with your vehicle. A lot of people visit a professional locksmith or a dealership for replacement of their keys.
Not all hardware stores can duplicate these key models. This means that if you own a car that is newer you might need to visit the dealership to get a duplicate key made.
You could consider purchasing a set of keys with blanks from an online retailer to save the cost. These packages are a fraction the cost of what you would pay in a physical store and include blanks of all sizes and shapes. Bulk key blanks allow you to create more copies of the same key at less cost.
A few years ago, Ron Sparer lost his car key. He was certain he needed a replacement, however, he didn't want pay $300 to the dealer. He looked for a solution and found that some Ace hardware stores carry a program that can help him create an identical key that will work with the car Toyota. The only limitation is that you need to know the code of the RF chip that's integrated into the fob. Fortunately the keymaker was able to find the code and follow directions on YouTube to get his new key working.
Cost of Equipment
The process of cutting car keys involves using tools to create a replacement ignition key that is identical. Modern car keys include various security features, including encryption which guarantees that only the key that is coded correctly can start your vehicle. This technology is designed to stop thieves from trying to duplicate or tamper your keys. It is a job that is highly specialized that requires specific equipment in order to make an exact duplicate of your car key. A professional locksmith has the tools necessary to ensure that a replacement key is safe and works in all locks. A professional locksmith will provide an assurance on their services. This is a huge advantage if you're worried about the quality.
The process of car key cutting typically begins with a fully functional, working original key that is put into locks to be copied. A key duplication machine is used to duplicate the cut on the end of the original key, which serves as a model for the new key. The blank key is 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 various types of key duplicating machines such as a single-key cutter, and a dual-key cutter that can handle both mortice and key cylinders. In recent times, key duplication machines have become more advanced and have been equipped with software that enables them to cut cuts in both traditional metal keys and smart transponder keys. The key duplication tools are more precise than traditional tools. getting a key cut near me makes it more difficult for thieves to steal your car keys to do this without knowing about it.
Some auto stores offer key Cloning which is a simpler process than cutting keys. To accomplish this associates will use your existing key and choose a blank key that is compatible with your year, make and model. Then, the blank will be traced by a machine in order to precisely duplicate the contours of the original key. However this method isn't advised for vehicles equipped with transponder chips because the copied key may not be capable of starting the vehicle.
Cost of Labor
In the past, you could find a replacement key at the local locksmith or hardware store if you had lost yours. Modern cars are equipped with transponder chips and remote transmitters that make it more difficult to duplicate a car key. The most common method to replace these kinds of keys is to visit the dealership, which can be expensive.
The complexity and type of key will also determine the cost. Duplicating basic house keys isn't expensive, but keys with key fobs or other features are more expensive as they require a separate machine and are more difficult to duplicate. The cost of a duplicate key depends on the quantity of copies you'll need.
The most common kinds of car keys are normal keys, which are cheap to copy and do not require any programming. However, modern cars have transponder keys, which are more expensive to copy because they must be programmed to work with your car. Additionally, some keys have built-in transponder chips that need to be programmed as well.
The cost of key duplication can vary between $25 and $300 based on the type of keys, the duplication equipment used and the cost of the blank key. To get the best prices on key duplication, look for a professional that is a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
In addition to the cost of the key blank and the duplication machine, you'll also be required to pay for labor when you require an entirely new key. This can cost as low as $10 based on the type of key and the type of key, but it could be higher if you're required to purchase a replacement fob or to have a professional come to your home or office. You can save money by choosing a locksmith or cutter that will give you a free estimate. This way, you'll know exactly what to expect before you sign a contract. This is important if you are replacing a key that requires the use of a machine to duplicate.
Cost of Programming
Car key cutting is just an aspect of the overall cost for replacing lost keys to your car. A locksmith for cars must program the new key to match the existing one, which is lengthy. The cost of programming a key is affected by the year, make and model of your car. It can also be affected by the type of key you require. The more sophisticated types of keys require a transponder chip that must be programmed in order to start your car. This helps to prevent car thefts and also provides additional security.
The most commonly used car key type is a simple, flat blade. Keys can be made by a locksmith or hardware store or even some big box stores. A flat blade key typically costs $5-$10 to duplicate. High security keys, on the other hand are more intricate in design and are harder to reproduce. They are more expensive because of the additional security, and require a more advanced machine to cut them.
Transponder chips are found in the keys of modern vehicles. They need to be paired to the vehicle for them to function. This is why it's important to have a spare set of car keys. If you lose your car key, a professional will need to replace the chip inside the key in order for it to start your car. The process is simple, but it does take some time.
Many big box stores provide duplicate services for car keys, however they are not equipped to program the newer transponder key. Similarly, some independent auto repair shops and dealerships do not have the tools needed to accomplish this. Therefore, it is essential to locate a local locksmith who can program new car keys.
The price of car key fobs can vary between $50 and $400. The price of a car key fob will be determined by its type and whether or not it has an integrated remote. A separate fob, that isn't integrated with the key, will cost $75 to program. Key-and-fob combinations are more expensive and could cost up to $300 to program. Switchblade keys, which have the key that folds into the fob which resembles an switchblade knife, will be more expensive to program as well.