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The Cost of Car Key Cutting

Car key cutting is a service that many car owners depend on. It's important to understand the price before you make a decision.

Box stores and hardware stores usually have key-cutting kiosks where you can make copies of your keys. These usually cost a few dollars.

Cost of Key Blanks

The cost of cutting standard keys like car keys, house keys fobs and key fobs usually only a few dollars. The majority of hardware stores have key duplication machines that can cut these keys in a single move. The process uses the original key as a template, and the blank key to be aligned with a special cutter that cuts them both at the same time. This makes it easy to design the new key that is a match to the original in shape and size.

These simple machines can't duplicate key styles that are more sophisticated like keys that have remote functions or transponder chips. These keys usually require the assistance of a professional and program the key before they are able to use your vehicle. Many people will visit an expert locksmith or dealership for replacement of their keys.

Not all hardware stores can duplicate these key models. If you own a newer car, you will need to go to the dealership to purchase an identical key.

You could consider purchasing a set of keys with blanks from an online retailer to avoid the cost. These packages are available for a fraction of the price that you would pay at a store, and include key blanks of various sizes and shapes. Bulk key blanks let 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 the need for a replacement but he didn't want spend $300 at the dealer. He searched for a solution, and found that some Ace Hardware stores had a software to assist him in creating a duplicate key which worked with his Toyota. The only limitation is that he has to be aware of the code of the RF chip molded into his fob. He was able, thanks to YouTube, to find the code for the new key and follow the directions.

Cost of Equipment

The process of cutting keys for cars involves using tools to make a replacement ignition key that is identical. Modern car keys include numerous anti-theft options such as encryption that ensures only the correct ignition key can be used to start your car. This technology is designed to discourage thieves from trying to duplicate or alter your keys, making them more difficult to steal. It is a job that is highly specialized that requires special equipment to create the perfect replica of your car keys. A professional locksmith will have the right equipment to ensure that your replacement key works properly in all locks and is safe to use in your vehicle. A professional locksmith will provide an assurance on their services. This is a huge benefit if you're concerned about the quality of the service.

The process of cutting car keys begins with a fully functioning working key being inserted into the lock to be copied. The original key is cut and the template for the new key is copied by a key duplication machine. A blank key is then placed on the opposite side of the machine, and both are moved simultaneously through the cutting mechanism, which produces the new key that is identical to the original. There are various types of key duplicating machines including a single-key cutter and a dual-key cutter that can handle both mortice and key cylinders. In recent years, key-duplication machines have become more sophisticated and are fitted with software that allows them to cut traditional keys made of metal as well as smart transponder keys. These key duplication machines are more precise than traditional tools. This makes it more difficult for thieves who take your car keys to do it without knowing about it.

Some auto stores offer key copying, which is an easier procedure than cutting keys. A representative will choose the right key blank that matches your model, year, and make. Then, the blank will be traced by a machine to accurately duplicate the contours of the original key. However, this method is not recommended for vehicles that have integrated transponder chips, as the copied key might not be able to start the vehicle.

Cost of Labor

In the past, it was easy to find a replacement key at an area hardware store or locksmith if you had lost yours. But, modern cars have remote transmitters and transponder chips which make it harder to copy keys. The most common method to replace these kinds of keys is to visit the dealership, which can be costly.

The complexity and the type of key also determine the price. Duplicating basic house keys is not expensive, however, keys for cars with 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 also depends on the quantity you'd like to duplicate.

Standard keys are the most common type of car keys. They are simple to duplicate and don't need any programming. Transponder keys are used in modern cars and they cost more to duplicate because they need to be programmed to your car. Furthermore, some key fobs include transponder chips in them that need to be programmed also.

The cost of key duplication could vary between $25 and $300 based on the kind of keys, the duplication machines used and the cost of the blank key. To get the best price on key duplication, search for a professional that is a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.

You'll have to pay for labor, as well as the cost of the duplication machines and key blanks when you need replacement keys. Depending on the type of key, this may be as low as $10, but it could be more expensive if you're required to purchase a new fob or for a professional to visit your workplace or home. To save money, try to find the key cutter or locksmith that offers a free estimate. You'll know what you can expect and decide whether to accept the service before you do. This is especially important if you are replacing the key, which requires the use of a machine to duplicate.

Cost of Programming

Car key cutting is just an aspect of the total cost of replacing lost keys for cars. A locksmith for cars must program the new key so that it matches your existing one. This could be long. The cost of programming the new key is determined by the year, model and make of your car. It could also be affected by the type of key you need. Transponder chips are needed for more advanced keys that can start your car. This helps to prevent theft of your car and also provides additional security.


The most common kind of car key is a simple, flat blade. Keys can be made by a locksmith or hardware store or even some big box stores. A flat blade key usually costs $5-$10 to duplicate. High security keys however are more intricate in design and are harder to reproduce. The additional security feature makes them more expensive and requires a more specific cutting machine.

Transponder chips are found in the keys of most modern vehicles. keys cut need to be linked to the vehicle for them to function. This is why it's essential to have a spare set of keys for your car. If you lose your car keys professional assistance is required to replace the chip inside the key to allow it to start your car. The process is straightforward, but takes some time.

Many big box stores provide duplicate services for car keys, however they are not equipped to program the newer transponder keys. Some independent auto repair shops or dealerships also don't have the right equipment. This is why it is crucial to locate a locksmith in your area who can make new keys for your car.

The cost of a car key fob can vary between $50 and $400. The cost varies based on the type of key and whether it includes a remote fob into it or not. A separate fob that isn't integrated into the key is typically about $75 to program. A key-and-fob combination will be more expensive and could cost as much as $300 to program. Switchblade keys, which have a key that folds in the fob, making it look like an actual switchblade, will also be more expensive to programme.

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