How to Cut Your Car Key Cutting Cost
The loss of your car keys isn't a good idea. AutoZone offers the technology and replacement parts you need to replace your car keys without having to pay dealership prices.
Simply bring your current working key to a participating AutoZone location and an associate will match the contours using a key cutting machine onsite. This costs on average 20 percent less than purchasing from a dealer.
Keys with Transponder Chips
A lot of modern cars come with key fobs that provide security and convenience for the owner of the vehicle. These devices are not free. In some instances the cost of replacing the key fob that is damaged or lost is high. The good news is that there are options to cut the costs associated with these devices. It's cheaper to get a spare car key now, rather than waiting until you lose the key and are confronted with the expense of the visit of a locksmith or towing charges.
The transponder chip (which has its name derived from the words "transmitter + responder") has been a feature of most cars since the mid-1990s. This technology was developed as a response to the rising rate of car theft. The basic idea behind the chip in a car transponder transmits a signal that contains an encrypted password. When the key is inserted into ignition, an antenna ring surrounding the ignition cylinder detects the signal and, if it matches the password, the engine is started. This is an important thing because the majority of thieves simply hot wire the vehicle to start it, and then drive off.
Transponder chips function on a similar basis as microchips in computers and cell phones. The difference is that they don't need constant power to work. They emit a low frequency electromagnetic signal that can be detected by special detectors placed on the ignition cylinder and the key head.
If you need to have a spare car key made for a vehicle equipped with transponder chips We strongly suggest that you visit your local locksmith. Most locksmiths have a device to program new keys to match your car model and make. This is an excellent alternative to taking your car to the dealership.
It is also important to know that some stores such as AutoZone will offer a key programming service. They often charge much more than professional locksmiths. This is because they can profit from the "scaling" effect which occurs when the number of units sold increases. They can then pass the savings to consumers.
Keys with Electronics
Modern keys come with transponders or chips that are paired to the car when the key is inserted into the ignition. These keys are more expensive to replace than traditional keys as they require programming, which must be performed by an auto locksmith or dealership. The process can cost anywhere from to $500 for the new key, and reprogramming of the immobilizer, and possibly the cost of labor.
The best method to save money on key cutting costs is by avoiding the need to replace your keys in the first place. That means having an extra key in case you lose the original. locksmith key cutting can buy a duplicate key for $25-$50 at a box store or hardware retailer, based on the type of key.
Many people are unaware that they can buy replacement keys from the manufacturer online or at a discounted price. The benefit of buying the factory key is that it will likely be equipped with the correct transponder chip. This is vital, as you will not be able use an aftermarket car key unless it has been professionally programmed.
The majority of hardware stores and box shops do not have the equipment to program modern-day car keys and therefore, they are unable to offer basic duplication services. You can go to a dealer or an independent auto repair shop or a locksmith shop to have them replaced.
Another thing to think about is that if you're planning on buying a key at a bargain price from an online retailer, you'll need to ensure that it's not programmed to another vehicle. This can be done by looking at the key blade for chips or the cutout to see if it shows evidence of an earlier key.
The purchase of a key duplication device is a different option however, it's not affordable for the majority of people. The machine is more expensive than keys with blanks, which means you'll need to cut many keys to break even. If you're not at ease with a vice hand-files are a more affordable alternative. But, it's not the most secure option as it may cause damage to the electronic components of the key or break the key off in the lock.
Keys with Key Fobs
A lot of modern cars have key fobs that function as remote controls that allow you to lock and unlock your car and even start the engine. These are tiny remote transmitters which communicate with the onboard computer of your vehicle via radio waves. They are a convenience for drivers, however they can be expensive to replace or duplicate in the event that you lose one.
Key fobs are more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are equipped with sophisticated electronic components. Key fobs must also be programmed before they work with your vehicle, which can add up in cost too.
A new fob and key could cost as much as $300 in the event that you lose your sole functional fob. Consumer Reports claims that you can reduce the cost of a new fob by as much as 50% if you purchase it on the internet. Amazon, Walmart, or an auto-parts store might have a key fob that fits your car model. Some of these fobs might need to be laser-cut by locksmiths or programmed by a dealer in your area, but most can be programmed by the customer with ease (though some will require two working, current keys to do this).
Key fobs that are standard are cheaper than more advanced models to replace since they don't come with an embedded chip that requires to be reprogrammed after the fact. While they can be expensive to duplicate in the event that you need to design a template for a damaged or lost key The cost is far less than buying a new set of keys from a car dealer.
Another way to cut the cost of cutting keys is to purchase an entirely new shell for your existing key fob. Batteries Plus offers a selection of shells that can replace the plastic exterior of your keychain and buttons, but leave the electronic components intact. These shells are a cost-effective solution to update your keychain without making an appointment with the dealer.
Keys with Keyless Entry
The car key fob has many advantages. They allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle without having to search for your keys, particularly when you're carrying heavy groceries or other items in your hands. If they have this feature built-in they will help you open your hatch and trunk.
These keys aren't ideal for long-term usage because they drain the battery. Additionally, they can be difficult to program, based on the vehicle's make and model. Many key fobs are easily repaired by purchasing new ones from third-party vendors like Pop-A Lock. These can often be found for much cheaper than a dealer-supplied option, by searching on the internet or visit your local hardware store.
If you already have a standard-sized key, the cost of duplication could be as low as $10 to $15. You may also be able purchase an alternative at your local hardware store or box chain retailer. Keys that require specialized coding typically cost more to replace, but. They are typically laser-cut and sometimes called sidewinder keys or high-security keys. They have a larger shank and less carved-out grooves on the blade and must be programmed with a specific machine found in a locksmith shop or dealer.
A key with a chip can be quite expensive to replace and typically requires the visit to a dealership to have the replacement coded. They are also known as transponder or smart keys and they come with electronic components that need to be verified by your car before it can open doors or start the engine. A dealer can charge between $150 to $300 for a brand new original key that includes both the key fob as well as a new transponder chip.
If you lose the keys to your keyless entry system or if the battery inside your key fob goes out it could cost you to replace the keys. The majority of modern cars have keys that function by transmitting a signal from the key fob to a device in your car. The car locks or unlocks the car on the signal. It will also open the trunk and hatch when the key is in close proximity to the receiver.