Last Updated on July 22, 2024
Price Factors | Detailed Cost by Key Type | Cost for Key FOBs | DIY Key Programming Instructions | FAQ
The main factor of car key replacement cost is whether or not you have an existing key. This article focuses on how much it costs to duplicate a car key (meaning you have one working key). If you’ve lost all keys, check out The Cost to Replace Lost Car Keys.
The cost of cutting a car key depends on the type of key. Basic all-metal key copies can start as low as $10, while modern key FOBs may reach up to $400. The total duplication cost includes the key or FOB, cutting, and programming (if necessary).
| Key Type | Cost of Key & Cutting | Additional Cost of Programming | Total Cost of Car Key Copy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Key Copy | $10-$20 | NA | $10-$20 |
| Standard Key with Chip (Transponder Key) | $15-$30 | $60-$100 | $15-$130 |
| High-Security Key | $50-$75 | NA | $50-$75 |
| High-Security Key with Chip | $50-$75 | $60-100 | $50-$175 |
Price Factors in Car Key Duplication
Two main factors that go into the total cost of a car key duplication:
Key Type
Is it a standard mechanical key, transponder key, laser cut key or a car key FOB?
Key Programming
Does the key need to be programmed, can you program it yourself, or will you have to go to a dealer to get it programmed?
Cost to Duplicate Car Keys by Key Type
Copy a Standard Car Key
A standard car key is a traditional, mechanical key used to unlock and start a vehicle. It is typically made of metal, though some have plastic heads. Standard car keys need to be inserted into the vehicle’s ignition and turned to start the car. These keys do not have any electronic components.
Duplicating a standard car key is one of the most budget-friendly options. Typically, a standard car key copy of a mechanical key costs $10 to $20. The final cost varies by factors such as the manufacturer of the key and specific pricing in your area.
Laser Cut Car Keys (High Security)
Duplicating a laser-cut car key is more expensive than duplicating a standard key. Rather than just a few dollars, laser key duplication typically ranges from $50 to $75, varying by geographical area. This elevated cost reflects the specialized milling machines and the additional time required for precise cutting.
The actual high-security key blank costs only a few dollars more than a standard key blank, but it’s the key cutting that adds significant cost to the price of the key. Laser keys are not made with the traditional cuts along the side of the blade (the shaft). Instead, the cuts are routed into the edges of the key – but not all the way through. Or, the cuts may be routed into the center of the shaft.
Laser keys require more expensive cutting machines and take longer to cut. This expense is passed on to the consumer.
Transponder Key Programming Cost
Keys with transponder chips in them, sometimes called chip keys, will need to be programmed into the car so that the car recognizes the key and starts.
The cost to program car keys or FOBs generally falls within the range of $60 to $100. Several factors contribute to this cost, including the manufacturer of your vehicle. Notably, Chryslers are among the more expensive. The car needs to be present for programming.
Transponder car keys are a little more expensive, and there are additional service costs to program the key or FOB.
Transponder keys are the reason why most box stores don’t make new car keys (although that is starting to change). They do not usually have the equipment or the knowledge to program transponder chip keys.
Cost to Duplicate a Car Key Fob
Car FOBs have electronic features such as push-to-start, remote entry, remote start, and more.
The cost to duplicate a car key FOB typically ranges from $50 to $400. This cost variation is influenced mainly by the price of the FOB itself (ranging from $50 to $300) and whether or not the FOB requires programming to the car. If there is an emergency, key-cutting fees will also be added to the cost.
All FOBs will need to be programmed to the vehicle for the car to run. However, in some cases, this programming can be done by the owner when the FOB is “on board programmable” not requiring a locksmith or the dealer to be at the vehicle.
Even though you may not see the key, most FOBs have hidden keys that slide into the case of the FOB, and that key will need to be cut for emergency access to the car and, often, to program the remote.
FAQ
How Much Does Car Key Cutting Cost?
If you buy a car key online and take it to a locksmith shop for cutting, you’ll find the cost of duplicating a standard key to be between $6 to $10. High-security keys are more expensive to cut. You’ll find high security key cutting varies between $50 to $75.
Where Can I Duplicate a Car Key?
For older vehicles, hardware stores or box stores often offer key duplication services. Newer vehicles requiring key programming can be duplicated by locksmiths, independent auto repair shops, and dealerships. Auto locksmiths are frequently the low-cost option when it comes to key duplication.
Can I Program My Car Key to Save Money
Some manufacturers, allow you to program your car keys but some don’t. Your car Owner’s Manual will provide the instructions if available.
You can also check if you can program your key by searching for the year, make, and model of your vehicle at our online car key replacement portal. We highlight how to get that information in our YouTube video.
Find DIY Key Programming Instructions
Find Your Search for Your Car’s Programming InstructionsIMPORTANT NOTE: If you only have one working key for your vehicle, the time to get a copy is now. The reason is simple: the cost to replace a key, remote, or FOB is far cheaper than the cost to originate a car key. While you may balk at these duplication costs, it can be 2X – 10X more expensive to originate a key when you’ve lost that last one!
Locksmith Tip
One final note on getting a duplicate key for your vehicle:
Be sure to bring all current and new operating keys AND fobs with you when you are adding keys or fobs to your vehicle.
Some vehicles will ‘drop’ keys that are not present at the time of programming, rendering them at least temporarily unusable (they can, of course, be re-added later for an additional car key programming cost).
By bringing all your current and new equipment, you can make sure that everything still works with the vehicle, avoiding unnecessary inconveniences.
More of Our Favorite Security Products
See our Amazon Store for Videos and Links to All of Our Favorite Security Products.
Door Armor: Reinforce your doors. This video on YouTube shows the installation of Door Armor, and you can buy this or similar products from Amazon at a great price.
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Smart Locks: Access Your Locks via Smart Phone. You’ll find some of our favorite smart locks that allow you to control home access and monitor entry in our Amazon Smart Lock Shop. Watch our Smart Lock Comparison Video on YouTube for reviews of the most popular Smart Locks.
High-Security Safes: When you want a safe that is designed to protect the valuables you put inside, you want a high-security safe found on ACME Locksmith’s Safes for Sale website.
Sliding Glass Door Lock: The best Arcadia door lock that stops your sliding glass door from being lifted out of its tracks and prevents little ones from opening the door and leaving the home. Check out the video on YouTube and Buy it on our website.
Disclosure: As an eBay / Amazon Associate I may earn from qualifying purchases.