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The Cost of Car Key Cutting Car key cutting is a process that many car owners depend on. It's crucial to know the cost prior to you make a choice. Hardware stores and box stores often have key-cutting kiosks which allow you to make a simple copy of your keys. These typically cost a few dollars. Cost of Key Blanks The cost of cutting standard key types such as car keys, house keys fobs and key fobs is usually only a few dollars. This is because the majority of hardware stores have a key duplication device that can cut these types of keys in a single run through the machine. This method uses the original key as a template, and the blank key is cut using a special cutter which cuts both keys simultaneously. This allows you to easily create a key identical to the original, both in terms of size and shape. These basic machines aren't able to duplicate advanced key types, such as those that use transponder chips or remote functions. These keys require a professional to program them on the spot before they can be used with your car. 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. While most hardware stores are able to duplicate these more sophisticated key types however, not all stores do. This means that if have a newer model car you might need to visit your dealership to get a duplicate key made. You could consider purchasing a set of keys that are blank from an online retailer to avoid the cost. These packages can be purchased at a fraction of cost you'd pay at the retailer, and contain key blanks in a variety of shapes and sizes. Key blanks in bulk allow you to create more copies of the same key for a lower price. A couple of years ago, Ron Sparer lost his car key. He knew he would need a replacement, but didn't want $300 to be spent at the dealer. He began searching for a solution and discovered that certain Ace hardware stores offer a program that can help him create an identical key that will work with his Toyota. The only drawback is that you must be aware of the code of the RF chip embedded into the fob. Fortunately it was possible to find the code and follow the instructions on YouTube to get his new key working. Cost of Equipment The process of cutting car keys involves using tools to create an ignition key that's identical to the original. Modern car keys include a range of anti-theft features, including encryption which ensures only the correct coded key will be able to start your vehicle. This technology is intended to discourage thieves from attempting to duplicate or alter your keys. Car key cutting is a highly specialized service that requires special equipment to make a perfect copy of your car's key. A professional locksmith has the equipment necessary to ensure that the replacement key is secure and compatible with all locks. A professional locksmith will offer a guarantee on their services. This is an excellent benefit if you're concerned about the quality. The process of cutting keys for cars usually begins with a fully functioning, working key that is then 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 device. The blank key is then placed on the opposite side of the machine and both are simultaneously moved through the cutting mechanism. This creates a key that matches exactly the original. There are a variety of key duplicating machine, including a single key cutter and a dual key cutter that can handle mortice and cylinder keys. In recent years, key duplication tools have become more advanced and are equipped with software that enables them to cut the cuts in traditional keys as well as smart transponder keys. Key duplication machines are more precise than the traditional tools. This makes it more difficult for thieves to steal your car keys to do it without knowing about it. Some auto shops offer key Cloning, which is an easier procedure than key cutting. To perform this task, an associate will take your existing key and select a matching blank key that is compatible with your year, model and model. The key blank is then traced using a machine to accurately reproduce the contours of your original. However this method is not advised for vehicles equipped with transponder chips since the copied key may not be capable of starting the vehicle. Cost of Labor In the past, you could easily obtain a replacement key from an area hardware or locksmith store if you lost yours. However, modern cars use remote transmitters and transponder chips which make it harder to duplicate keys. The most common method to replace these kinds of keys is to go to the dealer, which can be expensive. The complexity and type of key also determine the price. The process of copying the basic house keys isn't expensive, but car keys that have key fobs or other features are more expensive because they require a special machine and are more difficult to copy. The cost of a key will also depend on how many you want to have copied. The most popular types of car keys are regular keys, which are inexpensive to duplicate and do not require programming. Transponder keys are used in modern cars and they cost more to duplicate because they need to be programmed to your car. Additionally, some key fobs come with transponder chips built-in, which require programming also. Depending on the type of key, the duplication machine employed, and the price of the key blank, the overall cost can range between $25 and $300. If he said want 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 duplication machines and key blanks when you need an additional key. This could cost as low as $10 depending on the type of key however, it could be more if you need to purchase a replacement fob or have a professional come to your house or workplace. You can save money by finding a locksmith or key cutter who can provide you with an estimate for free. This way, you'll know exactly what you can expect before you agree to the services. This is especially important if you are replacing the key, which requires an equipment to duplicate. Cost of Programming Car key cutting is just an aspect of the overall cost of replacing lost keys to your car. A locksmith for cars must program the new key in order that it is compatible with your current one. This can be long. The cost of programming a new key is influenced by the year, model and model of your car. The type of key that you need can also affect the price. Transponder chips are needed for more advanced keys to start your vehicle. This prevents car thefts and provides extra security. The most commonly used car key type is a flat, simple blade. These keys can be cut by locksmiths or a hardware shop or even at large box stores. A flat blade key usually costs $5-$10 to duplicate. High security keys are more difficult to duplicate since they have a complex design. The additional security feature can make them more expensive and requires a more specialized cutting machine. Transponder chips are present in the keys of a majority of modern cars. They need to be connected to the vehicle to function. It is crucial to have spare keys for cars. A professional will need to replace the chip on your key in the event that you lose it. The procedure is easy, but it does take some time. Many big box stores offer duplication services for car keys, but they are not equipped to program the latest transponder key. Some independent auto repair shops or dealerships also don't have the right equipment. Therefore, it is essential to locate a local locksmith who can program new car keys. The price of a car key can be anywhere from $50 to 400 dollars. The cost varies based on the type of key and whether it has a remote fob built into it or not. A separate fob, not included with the key will cost $75 to program. Programming a key-and fob combination can be costly, and can cost up to $300. Switchblade keys, which have the key that folds into the fob to resemble the shape of a switchblade and is more expensive to program.