The
Cost of Car Key CuttingMany car owners rely on the cutting keys for their vehicles. It's important to know the cost before you make a decision.
Many hardware stores and box stores have key-cutting machines where you can easily create a copy of your keys. These typically cost 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 only a couple of dollars. This is due to the fact that most hardware stores have a key duplication machine that can cut these kinds of keys with a single run through the machine. This process uses the original key as a template, and the blank key to be aligned with a specialized cutter that cuts both at the same time. This allows you to easily create a key that is identical to the original both in terms of size and shape.
However,
Cost of Car Key Cutting these simple machines can't duplicate more sophisticated key types that use transponder chips or remote functions. These keys usually require an expert to visit and program the key before they can use your vehicle. This is why many people prefer to visit a locksmith or dealer professional when they lose their keys or need replacements.
Although the majority of hardware stores are able to copy these more advanced key types but not all have the capability. This means that if you own a car that is newer, you may need to visit the dealership in order to have a duplicate key made.
If you want to avoid this expense, consider purchasing a key blank package from an online retailer. These packages are available at a fraction of price that you would spend at the store, and include key blanks in various dimensions and shapes. Key blanks are also available in bulk, allowing you to create multiple copies for a lesser cost per key.
A couple of years ago, Ron Sparer lost his car key. He was aware that he would require an alternative, but he did not want to pay $300 to be spent at the dealer. He searched for a solution, and found that some 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 must be aware of the code of the RF chip integrated into the fob. He was able, thanks to YouTube to locate the code for his new key and follow the directions.
Cost of Equipment
Car key cutting is a process that uses tools to create a similar replacement for your vehicle's ignition keys. Modern car keys have various anti-theft features, such as encryption which ensures only the correct coded key will be able to start your vehicle. This technology is designed to stop thieves from trying to duplicate or tamper your keys. Car key cutting is a highly specialized service that requires specialized equipment to produce a perfect duplicate of the key in your car. A professional locksmith will have the equipment required to ensure that the replacement key is safe and works in all locks. A professional locksmith will offer a guarantee on their services. This is an excellent advantage if you're worried about the quality of the service.
The process of cutting car keys begins with a fully functioning, working original key being placed in the lock to be copied. A key duplication machine is then used to copy the cut on the end of the original key, which serves 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 an exact key that is identical to the original. There are various kinds of key duplicating machines including a single cutter and a dual key cutter that can work with mortice and cylinder keys. In recent years, key duplication tools are becoming more sophisticated and have been equipped with software that enables them to cut the cuts in traditional keys as well as smart transponder keys. Key duplication systems are more precise than conventional tools, which makes it more difficult for thieves to duplicate your car keys without your knowledge.
Some stores for automobiles also offer key cloning which is a much simpler process than cutting keys. To perform this task the associate will first use your existing key and choose a blank key that is compatible with your year, make, and model. The key blank is traced by a machine to precisely replicate the contours of the original. However this method is not recommended for vehicles with integrated transponder chips since the copied key may not be able to start the vehicle.
Cost of Labor
In the past, it was easy to
get a car key cut a replacement key at an area hardware or locksmith store if you had lost your key. Nowadays, cars are equipped with remote transmitters and transponder chips which make it difficult to duplicate keys. The most common method to replace these keys is to visit the dealership, which could be expensive.
Another factor that affects the cost of car key replacement is the type and complexity of the key. The basic house keys are affordable to duplicate, but keys for cars with key fobs and other features are more expensive because they are more difficult to duplicate and require a specific machine. The cost of a key will also depend on the number you'd like to have copied.
Standard keys are the most commonly used type of car key. They are easy to duplicate and don't need any programming. However, modern cars use transponder keys, which are much more expensive to copy as they need to be programmed to work with your car. Furthermore, some key fobs have built-in transponder chips that must be programmed as well.
Depending on the type of key, the duplication equipment employed, and the price of the key blank, the total cost can vary between $30 and $300. If you are looking to get the most value on key duplications, find an expert who is an associate member of Associated Locksmiths of America.
You'll have to pay for labor in addition to the cost of the duplication machines and key blanks in the event that you require an additional key. Based on the type of key, this could be as low as $10, however it may be higher when you need to purchase a new fob or a professional to visit 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 to expect and can decide whether to accept the offer before you decide. This is especially important when you're replacing keys for your car that require a special machine to duplicate it.
Cost of Programming
Car key cutting is just an aspect of the overall cost for replacing lost car keys. A locksmith for cars needs to program the new key to match your existing one, which can be an extremely time-consuming process. The cost for programming a key is influenced by the year, make and model of your car. It is also affected by the type of key you need. Transponder chips are required for the more advanced keys to start your vehicle. This prevents car theft and provides additional security.
The most commonly used car key is a simple, flat blade. These types of keys can be cut by a locksmith or a hardware shop or even at large box stores. The process of replicating a flat blade costs between $5 to $10. Keys with higher security are more difficult to duplicate since they are made of a more intricate design. They cost more due to the additional security and require a more sophisticated machine to cut them.
Most modern cars come equipped with transponder chips on their keys that need to be paired with the vehicle to work. It is crucial to have
spare car keys cut car keys. If you lose your car key, a professional will need to replace the chip in the key to allow it to be able to start your vehicle. The procedure is simple however it takes a bit of time.
