How much does key duplication cost? Many factors are at play, whether you lost your set, need an extra one for emergencies, or prefer to give one to a family member to make life easier.
The average price for homes, luggage, and key duplication in India starts from ₹ 500 for something plain. If you need a new key fob, you might pay more for a replacement.
Smart keys need reprogramming and much technical work, so expect to spend more.
With this blog, we will tell you the key duplication cost and the factors affecting said cost.
So, let's read the article to learn more!
For What You Might Need Key Duplication Cost?
Here are some of the instances for which you might need spare key cost estimation for duplication services:
1. Basic Door Key
Generally, a simple house key will cost less. Whether you hire a home key maker or visit a hardware store makes no difference.
2. Decorated Door Key
They usually have classy shades or designs that create an emotional attachment. These often demand higher prices than other simple ones because of the lavish machining, licensed pictorial, or even unique paint used.
3. Luggage or Safe Key
In most cases, luggage and safe keys are uncommon to get duplicates for, and the services cost more. Many hardware stores don’t have the proper equipment to handle such cases, but professional locksmiths from platforms like Keyenzy can help you.
4. High-security Key
It usually costs more to copy high-security keys because they contain many enhanced security features. You can usually go to a locksmith, but they must be an authorized dealer for that brand.
That’s why the duplicated key will cost more in such a case, and you might even have to show registration or proof of ownership documents before you can get work started.
The professional locksmith must know that you are authorized to use and make copies of the key.
Latest Read: How Much Does a Car Key Replacement Cost in India?
How Much Does Key Duplication Cost for a Car Key?
A car duplicate key cost for a basic metal not containing any chip would be around ₹500. On the other hand, the remote key fob replacement would cost more. Have a look at the breakdown below to find the most suitable service for you:
1. Standard Key (Blank)
You will save a lot of money if your new keys are standard and metal. This is the oldest form of key available and offers no additional security.
2. Transponder Key
These keys contain a plastic head with an internal transponder chip that identifies your auto when you activate the vehicle. So, the spare key cost may be lesser in this case.
3. Laser-cut Key
The shape in which the key is cut does make a difference. The side grooves on laser key-cutting methods are far more complex and harder to reproduce. Often, you have to go to the dealership, although locksmiths are becoming more specialized in these.
4. Key Fobs
The remote for the vehicle replaced the traditional use of keys itself. Mostly, all will function, though the operation would involve turning the key for most in a scenario that gets locked. A much costlier procedure when copying these is used.
5. Smart Key
When smart keys are made, you'll pay for them. These newer systems allow custom options that recognize your driving habits as you approach your vehicle.
6. Switchblade Key
Key replacements or a copy of what you have, the switchblade model has a standard fob and retractible metal rod inside to engage the car to start.
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Factors Affecting the Cost Of Key Duplication
You’ll find numerous cost factors for copying keys, including the key's complexity and type. Here are some of the factors mentioned below:
1. Complexity and Type of Key
Since they come relatively cheap when duplicated, with more complexities and details involved in an auto key, an auto locksmith must reprogram these.
2. Cutting Method
How the cuts are made will also decide the cost of duplicating the keys. For example, some locksmiths use the key-cutting machine. It could be an automatic vs manual key-cutting machine, and sometimes, more precision is gained through the laser cut, thereby increasing the price.
3. Special Features
You should consider the types of keys. Some models have certain remote features or smart technology and will cost more to replicate. However, it is up to the brand and the locksmith.
4. Quantity
The keys usually tend to be cheap when copying in large numbers. However, you might need to duplicate at least 50 keys to achieve the best quotation.
5. Additional Services
The quotation for duplicating the keys increases with a specific brand, use of a smart key, need for fast service, and the inclusion of delivery.
6. Original Key Condition
Sometimes, duplicating damaged or worn-out keys may cost a little more than undamaged ones. Since it's quite challenging to copy them, this raises the cost.
7. Loss of All Keys
This can also significantly affect how expensive a new key will be if lost together with others. Fobs may need the services of the dealership. One may consider contacting a locksmith. These keys can be duplicated without using an original one.
8. Guarantees and Warranties
If the service you select guarantees or warrants their keys, it might make them a bit more expensive upfront. However, you can be sure that they will work.
9. Emergency Service
You can have your key copied in a hurry, but this will cost you extra if it's an emergency locksmith service (after hours).
10. Locksmith Services
Calling a locksmith will definitely affect the cost, especially in cases where you call them to visit the home with key blanks, etc. All the additional products they may use and professional fees will amount to the total service cost.
Also Read: How to Remove a Broken Key From the Lock?
Final Thoughts on Key Duplication Costs
We have finally reached the conclusion for our article about “how much does key duplication cost”.
A house or car duplicate key cost can be cheap to make, but this depends on many factors. Ultimately, it is best to get quotes from the locksmiths near you. Visiting a hardware store can work in some cases, but there are risks involved. Hiring a professional is often the best solution.
You can connect with Keyenzy to get locksmith services within half an hour. We provide not only key duplication services but also key replacement, key repair, and even smart lock installations at home.
Just fill out this quick form whenever you need us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How Long Will It Take to Duplicate a Key?
Ans: The kind of keys you are duplicating matters. But it usually takes about five minutes for a run-of-the-mill one. If electrical components are involved, you will wait 20 to 30 minutes and pay more for it in the end.
Q. Can You Get a Car Key Copy Without the Original?
Ans: It can be tricky for a normal individual, but yes, the locksmith services can help professionally. However, remember that the professional services will add to the overall key duplication cost. Professionals can make an impression with a key blank by hand or find an exact match for the key fob reprogramming.
Q. Is There a Way to Save Money on the Cost of Copying a Key?
Ans: You can get your second key cheaper through a neighborhood hardware store than a locksmith. But you probably won't get it done right.
