How to Cut Your Car Key Cutting Cost
It's never a good idea to lose your car keys. Fortunately, AutoZone has the technology and the parts to replace your keys without having to pay a dealership.
Simply bring your current working key to an AutoZone location and an associate will match the contours using a key cutting machine onsite. It's typically 20 percent less than buying from a dealer.
Keys that have Transponder chips
Many modern cars have key fobs which provide an element of security and ease to the car owner. These devices aren't free. In some cases, the cost of replacing a key fob that has been damaged or lost can be high. There are ways to cut down on the expense of these devices. It's cheaper to purchase an extra key now rather than wait until you lose your car keys and need to pay locksmith services or towing costs.
The transponder chip (which is named after the words "transmitter + responder") has been a standard feature in automobiles since the mid 1990s. This technology was created as a response to the rising rate of car theft. Transponders in cars transmit a secret code via a signal. When the key is inserted into the ignition, an antenna ring around the ignition cylinder reads the signal and, when it matches the password, the engine is started. This is a big deal since most thieves use hot wires to get it started and then drive off.
Transponder chips function on the same basis as microchips found in cell phones and computers. They don't require constant power. Instead, they send an electromagnetic signal of low frequency that is detected by special receivers placed in the ignition key's cylinder, or on the head itself.
If you're looking to get a spare key cutting car key made for a car equipped with transponder chips We highly recommend you visit your local locksmith. Most locksmiths have a device to program new keys for your specific vehicle model and. This is an excellent alternative to taking your car to the dealership.
It's also important to note that stores such as AutoZone provide a key-programming service. They typically charge more than professional locksmiths. They achieve this because they profit from a "scaling effect" that occurs when the number units sold increases. They can then pass on the savings to the consumers.
Keys with Electronics
Modern keys are equipped with transponders or chips that are connected to the vehicle whenever the key is inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace than traditional keys due to the fact that they need programming that can only be completed by a dealership auto locksmith or the manufacturer of your vehicle. This procedure can cost up to $500 for an entirely new key, changing of the immobilizer's programming, and possibly, labor costs.
The most effective way to save on car key cutting costs is by avoiding the need to replace your keys in the first place. It is essential to have a spare car key in the event that the original is lost. You can purchase a cheap duplicate key at a hardware store or box store for about $25 to $50, depending on the type of key.
Many people are unaware that they can purchase replacement keys from the manufacturer online or at a discount. A factory-issued key will likely have the correct transponder. This is crucial, since you cannot use an aftermarket mobile car key cutting key without having it professionally programmed.
The majority of hardware stores and box stores don't have the technology to program modern car keys, which is why they can only provide basic key duplication services. You can also go to a locksmith, independent auto repair shop or the dealer to get them replaced.
If you're planning to purchase a cheap key on the internet, ensure that it's not programmed to another vehicle. This can be accomplished by examining the blade of the key to see if there is chips, or a cutout showing the signs of an old key.
A key duplication device can be bought, but it is not an option for everyone. The machinery usually costs more than the blank keys, and you'll have to cut many keys to make a profit. If you don't feel comfortable using a vice, hand files are an option that is more affordable. This isn't the most secure option as it could harm the electronic components of the key or even break the key inside the lock.
Key Fobs with keys
Many modern vehicles come with key fobs, which are remote controls that allow you to lock your car, unlock it and start the engine. These are basically mini remote transmitters that connect to the computer in your vehicle via radio waves to transmit commands. These are great features for drivers, but they are costly to duplicate or replace in the event of loss.
Key fobs are more expensive than standard keys because they contain sophisticated electronics. Key fobs must also be programmed before they work with your vehicle, which can increase the costs as well.
A new fob and key could cost as much as $300 if you lose your only functional fob. However, Consumer Reports says you can reduce the cost of a replacement fob down to as little as $50 if you buy it on the internet. Search for the right key fob for your car's model at Amazon, Walmart or an auto-parts shop. Some of these fobs might need to be laser-cut by a locksmith or programmed by your local dealer, but many are programmable by customers with ease (though some may require two working, current keys to accomplish this).
Standard key fobs can be replaced for less than more advanced models since they do not have an embedded chip which requires reprogramming. Although they can be costly to duplicate in the event that you need to create templates for a damaged or lost key cutting locksmith near me it is lower than purchasing a brand new set of keys from a car dealer.
Another option to reduce your key cutting costs is to simply purchase a new case for your key fob. Batteries Plus has a range of shells that will replace your key fob's outer plastic and buttons, yet leave the electronic components intact. These shells are an affordable solution to upgrade your keychain without making an appointment with the dealer.
Keys for Keyless Entry
The car key fob comes with many benefits. They allow you to lock and unlock your car without having to locate your keys, especially if you're carrying groceries or other heavy weights in your hands. If they've got this feature built in, they can help you open the trunk and hatch.
The drawback to these kinds of keys is that they tend to consume battery power which makes it difficult to use them for long periods of time. Depending on the model and make of your vehicle, they may also be difficult to program. Fortunately, a lot of key fobs can be replaced with replacements from third-party vendors like Pop-A-Lock. If you search online or visit your local hardware store, you will typically find them for less than dealer-supplied options.
If you own an ordinary key, duplicate costs are usually very affordable and vary between $10 and $15. You may also be able to buy a replacement at your local hardware store or box chain retailer. Keys that are newer and require specialized encoding usually cost more to replace, however. They are usually laser-cut, often called sidewinder or high-security keys. They feature a more robust shank and have less grooves carved out on the key's blade, and must be programmed with a specific machine at a dealership or locksmith shop.
It can be expensive to replace a key that has a microchip and it is often necessary to visit a dealer to have the replacement coded. These keys are also referred to as transponder or smart keys. They have electronics that need to be verified before they are able to open doors or start engines. Dealers will charge between $150 and $300 for a key that includes the key fob and the transponder chip.
If you lose your keyless entry keys or if the battery inside your key fob dies it could be expensive to replace the keys. Keyless entry keys can be found in the majority of modern automobiles. They function by transmitting an electronic message from the key cut fob into a receiver within your car. The car locks or unlocks the car based on the signal. It will also open the hatch and trunk when the key is close to the receiver.