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The Cost of Car Key Cutting Car key cutting is a process that many car owners depend on. However, it's important to be aware of the costs associated with this service prior to making a decision. Box stores and hardware stores usually have kiosks for cutting keys where you can create a simple copy of your keys. They usually cost a few dollars. Cost of Key Blanks For basic key types like house keys, car keys and key fobs the cost of cutting them is typically only a few dollars. Most hardware stores have key duplication equipment which can cut these keys in a single step. This method uses the original as an example, and the blank key is cut using a special cutter that cuts both keys simultaneously. This allows you to create a key that is exactly like the original in terms of size and shape. However, these simple devices aren't able copy the more advanced keys that make use of transponder chips or remote functions. They typically require the assistance of a professional and program the key before they are able to work with your vehicle. Many people will visit a professional locksmith or dealership when they need to replace their keys. Not all hardware stores can duplicate these key types of advanced technology. If you own a brand new car, you will need to visit the dealership to obtain a duplicate key. If you want to avoid this expense, consider purchasing an empty key blank from an online retailer. These packages can be purchased at a fraction of price that you would pay at the retailer, and contain key blanks in a variety of sizes and shapes. Key blanks in bulk allow you to create more copies of the same key for less cost. A few years ago, Ron Sparer lost his car key. He was aware that the need for a replacement however, he didn't want spend $300 at the dealer. He searched for a solution, and found that some Ace hardware stores carry an application that can help him create an identical key that will work with his Toyota. The only catch is he has to be aware of the code of the RF chip that's molded into his fob. Thanks to YouTube to locate the code for his new key and follow the directions. Cost of Equipment Car key cutting is a method that uses tools to make an identical replacement for your vehicle's ignition keys. Modern car keys have several anti-theft features like encryption, which guarantees only the right coded ignition key can start your vehicle. This technology is designed to discourage thieves from trying to duplicate or alter your keys which makes them harder to steal. Car key cutting is a special service that requires special equipment to make a perfect copy of your car's key. A professional locksmith will have the equipment required to make sure that the replacement key is secure and compatible with all locks. A professional locksmith will give an assurance on their services. This is a huge benefit if you're concerned about the quality of the service. The cutting process of car keys begins with a fully functioning, working original key being placed in the lock to be copied. A key duplication machine is then utilized to duplicate the cut at the end of the original key, which acts as a template for the new key. laser key cutting is then placed on the opposite side of the machine and both are simultaneously moved through the cutting mechanism. This results in an exact key that is identical to the original. There are various kinds of key duplicating machines, such as a single key cutter and a dual key cutter that can work with mortice and cylinder keys. In recent times, key duplication machines have advanced and come with software that enables them to cut cuts in both traditional metal keys and smart transponder keys. These key duplication tools are more precise than traditional tools, which makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate your car keys without your knowledge. Some automotive stores also offer key cloning, which is a simpler procedure than cutting keys. To complete this task associates will take your key and select a matching blank key that is compatible with your year, make and model. The blank key will be traced by a machine to accurately duplicate the contours of the original key. However, this method is not advised for vehicles equipped with transponder chips because the copied key might not be able to start the vehicle. Cost of Labor In the past, you could easily get a replacement key at the local locksmith or hardware store if you lost yours. But, modern cars have remote transmitters and transponder chips which make it harder to duplicate keys. In most instances, the only option to replace the keys is to visit a dealership. This can be costly. Another factor that determines the cost of replacing a car key is the kind and complexity of the key. Copying basic keys for your home isn't expensive, but keys for cars with key fobs or other features are more expensive as they require a special machine and take longer to duplicate. The cost of a key also depends on the quantity you'd like to have copied. Standard keys are the most popular kind of car key. They are easy to duplicate and don't need any programming. Transponder keys are utilized in modern cars and they cost more to duplicate since they require programming to your car. Certain key fobs also have transponder chips built into them that require programming. The cost of key duplication could vary from $25 to $300 depending on the type of keys, the duplication machines used, and the price of the blank key. To get the most competitive prices for key duplication, look for a professional who is part of the Associated Locksmiths of America. In addition to the expense of the key blank and the duplication machine, you'll also be required to pay for labor when you need the replacement of a key. Depending on the kind of key, this can be as little as $10, however it may be higher when you need to pay for a brand new fob or a professional to visit your workplace or at home. To save money, you can try to find a key cutter or a locksmith who provides a no-cost estimate. This way, you'll know exactly what you can expect before you sign up for the services. 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 a small part of the total cost of replacing lost keys to your car. A car locksmith needs to program the new key to match your current one, which is a time-consuming process. The cost for programming a key is influenced by the year, model and model of your car. It could also be affected by the kind of key you require. Transponder chips are required for more advanced keys to start your vehicle. This helps prevent car theft and adds additional security. The most popular car key is a simple, flat blade. Keys can be made by a locksmith, a hardware store or even some big box stores. A flat blade key usually costs between $5 and $10 to duplicate. Keys with high security however, have a more complex design and are much harder to reproduce. They are more expensive due to the additional security, and require a more specialized machine to cut them. Modern cars are usually equipped with transponder chips on their keys, which must be connected to the vehicle to work. This is why it's important to have a spare set of car keys. A professional will have to replace the chip on your key in the event that you lose it. The process is straightforward however it can take some time. Although laser key cutting of big box stores offer duplicate car keys, they don't usually have the capability to program newer transponder keys. Additionally, some independent auto repair shops and dealerships don't have the necessary equipment to accomplish this. This is why it's important to find an area locksmith who can program new keys for your car. The price of a car fob could range between $50-$400. The price of the car key fob is determined by the type of it and whether or not it comes with an integrated remote. A separate fob that's not integrated into the key will usually cost about $75 to program. Programming a key-and fob combination can be costly, and can cost up to $300. Switchblade keys with keys that fold in the fob to look like an actual switchblade as well, are more expensive to program.