How to Cut Your Car Key Cutting Cost
Losing your car keys is not an ideal idea. AutoZone offers the technology and replacement parts that you need to replace your car keys without paying dealership cost.
Bring a working key to an AutoZone store and an associate will match the contours on site with a key-cutting machine. It's about 20% less than buying from an agent.
Keys with Transponder chips
Modern cars have key fobs that provide security and convenience for car owners. However, these devices come with a cost. In some instances, the cost of replacing a key fob that has been lost or damaged can be high. The good news is that there are options to reduce the cost associated with these devices. It's cheaper to get a spare car key today instead of waiting until you lose the key and you are facing the cost of the visit of a locksmith or towing costs.
Since the mid-1990s the transponder chip has been an integral part of the majority of automobiles. Its name is derived from "transmitter and responder". This technology was developed in response to rising levels of car theft. The car transponder transmits the secret code through a signal. When the key is inserted in the ignition, an antenna ring around the ignition cylinder reads this signal and if it matches the password, the engine will start. This is important as most thieves simply wire the vehicle before driving away.
Transponder chips operate in a similar way to microchips found in cell phones and computers. The distinction is that they don't require constant power to function. Instead, they send an electromagnetic signal at a low frequency which can be identified by special receivers in the ignition key's cylinder, or on the head itself.
We suggest visiting your local locksmith if in need of a spare key for your vehicle that has a transponder. Many locksmiths have a device that can program new keys to match the make and model of your vehicle. This is an excellent alternative to taking your car to the dealership.
It's also important to note that some stores, like AutoZone provide key programming services. They often charge much more than a professional locksmith. They do this because they can take advantage of the "scaling effect" that occurs when the number units sold increases. In other words, they are able to transfer their cost savings to the consumer.
Keys with Electronics
Modern keys come with chips or transponders that are paired to the car when the key is inserted into the ignition. These keys are more expensive to replace than traditional car keys due to the fact that they need programming that is only performed by a dealership, auto locksmith or the vehicle's manufacturer. This procedure can cost up to $500 for the new key, reprogramming the immobilizer and perhaps labor charges.
The best way to avoid the expense of replacing your car keys is to not require them in the first place. This means you should have an extra key in case you lose the original. You can buy a duplicate key for $25 to $50 at a box store or hardware shop, based on the type of key.
Many people are unaware that they can buy replacement keys online at a discounted price from the manufacturer. The advantage of purchasing a factory key is that it will likely come with the proper transponder chip. This is vital, as you will not be able make use of an aftermarket car key unless it's been professionally programmed.
The majority of box shops and hardware stores do not have the tools needed to program modern car keys They can only provide basic duplication services. You can also go to an independent locksmith, a repair shop or dealer to get them replaced.
Another thing to think about is that if you're thinking of buying a cheap key from an online retailer, you'll need ensure that it's not programmed to someone else's car. You can do this by looking at the key blade for chip or an open cutout that has evidence of an earlier key.
A key duplication machine can be purchased, but this is not a viable option for most people. The machine usually costs more than the blank keys themselves and you'll need to cut many keys to break even. If you're not sure about this, a vice and hand file are a much cheaper alternative. This is not the safest option as it could damage the key's electronic components or even break the key inside the lock.
Key Fobs with keys
Modern cars come with remote controls that lock and unlock the car and also start the motor. These are basically mini remote transmitters that communicate with your vehicle's onboard computer through radio waves to transmit commands. They are a great benefit for drivers, but they can be expensive to duplicate or replace in the event of loss.
Key fobs are more expensive than conventional keys due to the fact that they are equipped with sophisticated electronics. Fobs also require programming to work with your vehicle, which can also increase the cost.
A new key and fob could cost as much as $300 when you lose your only functional fob. However, Consumer Reports says you can reduce the cost of a replacement fob to just $50 by buying it online. Look for a key fob for your vehicle's model at Amazon, Walmart or an auto car key cutting near me-parts shop. Certain key fobs will need to be programmed or laser-cut by the dealer in your area. However, many of them can be programmed by the user.
Key fobs that are standard can be replaced for a lot less than more advanced models because they do not have an embedded chip which requires reprogramming. Although they can be costly to duplicate if you need to create a template to replace a damaged or lost key it is lower than purchasing a brand new key from your car dealer.
Another option to reduce your key cutting costs is by simply buying an entirely new shell for your key fob. Batteries Plus offers a selection of shells that can replace your key fob's outer plastic and buttons, but leave the electronics intact. They're an affordable way to refresh your keychain and save you the hassle of trying to make an appointment at the dealership.
Keys with Keyless Entry
Car key fobs come with a lot of benefits. They allow you to lock and unlock your car without having to look for your keys. This is especially beneficial when you're carrying heavy groceries or other items in your hands. If they have this feature built-in they will help you open the trunk and hatch.
The disadvantage of these types of keys is that they frequently drain the battery which makes it difficult to use for long periods of time. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, they may also be difficult to program. Many key fobs are easily repaired by purchasing new ones from third-party providers like Pop-A-Lock. If you look online or visit your local hardware store, you will often find these for a much lower price than dealer-supplied options.
If you have an ordinary key, duplicate costs are usually low, and can vary from $10 to $15. You can also buy keys to replace them at your local hardware store or box retailer store. However, replacing keys that are more recent and require specialized encoding could be costly. They are usually laser-cut and may be referred to as sidewinder keys or high-security keys. These keys are made with a thicker blade and less grooves on its shank. They have to be programmed by a special machine at a locksmith or dealership.
It can be expensive to replace a key that has microchips and it is usually necessary to visit a dealer to get the replacement code. These keys are also referred to as transponder or smart keys. They are equipped with electronics that need to be verified before they can open doors or start engines. A dealer typically charges between $150 and $300 for a brand new original key that comes with the key fob as well as a new transponder chip.
If you lose the keys to your keyless entry system or if the battery in your key cutting services fob dies it could cost you to replace them. Many modern cars come with these keys, which function by sending a signal from the key fob to a receiver 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 near the receiver.