The Cost of Car Key Cutting
Many car owners rely on the cutting keys for their cars. However, car key cutting mobile to be aware of the costs associated with this service prior to making a decision.
Box stores and hardware stores usually have key-cutting kiosks where you can make copies of your keys. These will usually cost you only a few dollars.
Cost of Key Blanks
The cost of cutting basic keys like car keys, house keys fobs and key fobs is usually a few dollars. Most hardware stores have key duplication equipment that can cut keys in one move. The process uses the original key as a model and the blank key to line up with a specific cutter that cuts them both simultaneously. This makes it easy to create a new key that matches the original in shape and size.
But, these machines can't copy the more advanced keys that use transponder chips or remote functions. They typically require an expert to visit and program the key before they can be used with your vehicle. Many people will go to an expert locksmith or dealership for replacement of their keys.
Although most hardware stores have the ability to duplicate these more sophisticated key types, not all do. This means that if you have a newer model car you might have to visit your dealer to get a duplicate key made.
Consider purchasing a package of blank keys from an online retailer to avoid the expense. They are only a fraction of the ones you can find in a retail store and come with blanks of all sizes and shapes. Bulk key blanks allow you to make more copies of the same key for a lower price.
A couple of years ago, Ron Sparer lost his car key. He was certain it was time to replace it, but he didn't want to spend $300 at the dealer. He looked for a solution, and discovered 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 molded into his fob. Fortunately the keymaker was able to locate the code and follow the instructions on YouTube to get his new key working.
Cost of Equipment
Car key cutting is a process that uses tools to make an identical replacement for your vehicle's ignition keys. Modern car keys include various anti-theft features, like encryption which guarantees that only the right key will be able to start your vehicle. This technology is intended to discourage thieves from attempting to duplicate or tamper your keys. Car key cutting is a specialized service that requires specific equipment to produce a perfect duplicate of the key in your car. A professional locksmith will have the proper equipment to ensure that your new key is functional in all locks and is safe to use in your vehicle. They also offer a warranty on their services which is a major advantage if you are worried about the quality of their work.
The process of cutting keys for cars generally begins with a functioning, working key that is put into a lock to be copied. The original key is cut, and the template for the new one is copied using a key duplication machine. The blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine and both are simultaneously pushed through the cutting mechanism. This produces an exact key that is identical to the original. There are a variety of key duplicating machines including a single-key cutter and a dual-key cutter that can handle both mortice and cylinder keys. In recent years, key duplication tools have become more advanced and come with software that allows them to cut the cuts in both traditional metal keys and smart transponder keys. These key duplication tools are more precise than traditional tools, which makes it more difficult for thieves to duplicate your car keys without knowledge.
Some auto shops offer key cloning which is a much simpler process than key cutting. To accomplish this, an associate will take your key and choose a blank key that is compatible with your year, make, and model. 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 that have integrated transponder chips, as the copied key may not be able to start the vehicle.
Cost of Labor
In the past, it was easy to find a replacement key at the local hardware or locksmith store in case you lost yours. Nowadays, cars are equipped with remote transmitters and transponder chips that make it more difficult to duplicate a key. Typically, the only option to replace these kinds of keys is to go to the dealership, which can be costly.
Another aspect that affects the cost of car key replacement is the kind and complexity of the key. Keys for houses are cheap to duplicate, but keys for cars that have key fobs and other features cost more because they are more complicated to duplicate and require a specific machine. The price of a key is also dependent on the number you'd like to copy.
The most common types of car keys are normal keys, which are cheap to duplicate and don't require any programming. Transponder keys are used in modern vehicles and cost more to duplicate because they need to be programmed to your car. Furthermore, some key fobs come with transponder chips built-in, which need to be programmed as well.
The cost of duplicating keys can vary from $25 to $300 based on the kind of keys, the duplication machines employed and the cost of the blank key. If you want to get the best price on key duplications, find a professional who is a member of Associated Locksmiths of America.
In addition to the expense of the key blank as well as the duplication machine, you'll have to pay for labor when you require the replacement of a key. Depending on the kind of key, this may be as low as $10, however, it could be more if you're required to pay for a brand new fob or a professional locksmith to come to your home or worksite. To save money, you can try to locate the key cutter or locksmith who provides a no-cost estimate. You'll know what you can expect and you can decide if you want to accept the offer before you decide. This is crucial in the event that you need to replace keys that require an equipment to duplicate.
Cost of Programming
The cost of replacing keys lost is mostly based on the cost of cutting new keys for cars. A car locksmith must program the new key in order that it matches your existing one. This can be long. The cost of programming the new key is determined by the model, year and model of your car. It could also be affected by the type of key you require. The more advanced types of keys require a transponder chip which is programmed to start your car. This prevents car theft and adds additional security.
The most popular car key type is an easy, flat blade. Keys of this kind can be cut by an locksmith, a hardware store, or even at big box stores. Making a duplicate of a flat blade key costs between $5 to $10. High security keys however are more intricate in design and are much harder to reproduce. The additional security feature can make them more expensive and requires a more specific cutting machine.
Transponder chips are present in the keys of modern vehicles. They must be connected with the vehicle in order to function. It is important to have spare car keys. A professional will need to replace the chip on your key if you lose it. The procedure is simple, but takes some time.
Although the majority of big box stores offer car key duplication services but they're not usually equipped with the capability to program newer transponder keys. Some independent auto repair shops or dealerships don't have the right equipment. 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 cost varies based on the type of key used and whether it comes with a remote fob integrated into it or not. A separate fob, which is not included with the key will cost $75 to program. Programming a key and fob combination could be expensive, costing up to $300. Switchblade keys, with a keys that fold into the fob which resembles a switchblade knife, are more expensive to program as well.