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The Cost of Car Key Cutting Car key cutting is a service that many car owners rely on. It's important to know the cost before you decide. Many hardware stores and box shops have key-cutting machines that you can easily make a copy of your keys. These usually cost you a few dollars. Cost of Key Blanks The cost of cutting basic key types like house keys, car key fobs, and key fobs is typically a few dollars. key cutting open now have key duplication equipment which can cut these keys in a single move. The process uses the original key as a model and the blank key to be aligned with a specialized cutter that cuts them simultaneously. This allows you to design a new key that matches the original in shape and size. However, these simple devices aren't able duplicate more sophisticated key types which use transponder chips, or remote functions. They typically require a professional to come onsite and program the key before they can use your vehicle. This is why many people prefer to see a locksmith or dealership professional when they lose their keys or need replacements. Some hardware stores are unable to copy these advanced key types. This means that if are driving a newer model vehicle you might have to visit your dealer in order to have a duplicate key made. Consider purchasing a package of keys with blanks from an online retailer to save the expense. These packages are available for a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a retailer, and include key blanks of various dimensions and shapes. Key blanks are also available in bulk, allowing you to create multiple copies for less per key. Ron Sparer lost the key to his car years ago. He knew the need for a replacement however, he didn't want spend $300 at a dealer. He searched for a solution and discovered that a few Ace Hardware stores had a program that could help him create a duplicate key which worked with his Toyota. The only catch is you must know the code of the RF chip that's integrated into the fob. He was able, thanks to YouTube to find the code for his new key and follow the instructions. Cost of Equipment The cutting of keys for cars involves using tools to make a replacement ignition key that's identical to the original. Modern car keys include a number of anti-theft features such as encryption that ensures only the right coded ignition key can start your car. This technology is intended to stop thieves from trying to duplicate or modify your keys. Car key cutting is a special service that requires special equipment to create a flawless duplicate of the key in your car. A professional locksmith will have the equipment required to ensure that the replacement key is secure and can be used in all locks. They also provide the guarantee of their services which is a major benefit if you're worried about the quality of their work. The process of cutting car keys begins with a fully functional working key being placed in the lock to be copied. The original key is cut, and the template for the new key is copied using a key duplication machine. A blank key is then positioned on the opposite side of the machine and both are simultaneously moved through the cutting mechanism, which creates the new key that is exactly like the original. There are a variety of key duplicating machines including a single-key cutter as well as a dual-key cutter that can handle both mortice and cylinder keys. In recent times, key duplication machines have become more advanced and are equipped with software that allows them to cut the cuts in traditional keys as well as smart transponder keys. The key duplication tools are more precise than traditional tools. This makes it more difficult for thieves to steal your car keys to do so without knowing about it. Some auto shops also offer key cloning which is a much simpler process than key cutting. To accomplish this the associate will first take your existing key and choose a blank key that is compatible with your year, make, and model. The key blank is traced by machine to accurately duplicate the contours of the original. This method is not recommended if the vehicle includes a transponder chip with it, as it could not allow you to start your car using the key copied. Cost of Labor In the past, you could find a replacement key at the local locksmith or hardware store if you had lost your key. However, modern cars use transponder chips and remote transmitters which make it difficult to copy keys. In the majority of instances, the only way to replace the keys is to visit the dealership. This can be costly. The complexity and the type of key also affect the cost. Basic house keys are inexpensive to duplicate, however keys for cars with key fobs and other features are more expensive because they are more difficult to duplicate and require a special machine. The price of a key also depends on the number you'd like to have copied. Standard keys are the most commonly used type of car key. They are simple to duplicate and don't need any programming. Transponder keys are used in modern vehicles and cost more to duplicate since they require programming to your car. Certain key fobs also come with transponder chips into them that require programming. The cost of duplicating keys can vary from $25 to $300 based on the type of keys, duplication equipment used, and the price of the blank key. If you are looking to get the best price on key duplications you should find a professional who is a member of Associated Locksmiths of America. You'll have to pay for labor, in addition to the cost of the key blanks and duplication machines in the event that you require a replacement key. Depending on the kind of key, this could be as low as $10, however it may be higher if you have to purchase a new fob or a professional to come to your workplace or at home. You can save money by choosing a locksmith or cutter who can provide you with an estimate for free. This will let you know what to expect prior to 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 The cost of replacing lost keys is largely determined by the cost of cutting new car keys. A car locksmith needs to program the new key to match the existing one, which is a time-consuming process. The cost of programming the new key is determined by the model, year and model of your car. It can also be affected by the type of key you require. Transponder chips are needed for the more advanced keys to start your car. This helps prevent car theft and also provides additional security. The most popular kind of car key is a simple, flat blade. These keys can be cut by a locksmith, a hardware store, or even at some big box stores. A flat blade key usually costs $5-$10 to duplicate. High security keys on the other hand are more intricate in design and are harder to duplicate. The extra security feature can make them more expensive and requires a more specific cutting machine. Transponder chips are found in the keys of modern automobiles. These need to be paired with the vehicle in order to function. This is why it is vital to have a spare set of keys for your car. A professional will have to replace the chip in your key if you lose it. The process is straightforward however it takes a bit of time. Many big box stores offer duplicate services for car keys, but they're not equipped to program the latest transponder keys. Some independent auto repair shops or dealerships don't have the right equipment. Therefore, it is essential to find a locksmith in your area who can program new car keys. The price of a car key can range from $50 to 400 dollars. This cost is influenced by the type of key used and whether it comes with a remote fob integrated into it or not. A separate fob that is not integrated into the key is typically about $75 to program. A key-and-fob combination will be more expensive and may cost up to $300 to program. Switchblade keys that have the key that folds into the fob, making it look like a switchblade and is more expensive to program.