How to Cut Your Car Key Cutting Cost
Losing your car keys isn't an ideal idea. Fortunately, AutoZone has the technology and parts to replace your keys without having to pay the dealership.
Simply bring a current working key to an AutoZone location and an associate will match the contours using an on-site key cutting machine. On average, this is 20% less than buying through a dealer.
Keys that have Transponder chips
A lot of modern cars come with key fobs that provide an element of security and comfort for the owner of the vehicle. However they also come with a cost. In some cases it can be expensive to replace a lost or damaged key fob. The good news is that there are ways to lower the costs associated with these devices. It's cheaper to buy an extra key now rather than to wait until you lose your car keys and have to pay for the locksmith or towing fees.
The transponder chip (which is named after the words "transmitter + responder") has been a standard feature in cars since the mid-1990s. The technology was created to combat the rising number of car thefts. Essentially, the car transponder chip emits an electronic signal that has an encrypted password. When the key is inserted in the ignition, the antenna ring that is placed around the ignition cylinder detects the signal and, when it matches the password, the engine starts. This is an important thing since most thieves hot wire the vehicle to start it, and then drive off.
Transponder chips work in a similar way to the microchips found in computers and cell phones. They do not require constant power. Instead, they send an electromagnetic signal at a low frequency which can be identified by special receivers in the ignition cylinder or on the key head itself.
We suggest that you visit your local locksmith if you need the spare key for a vehicle with a transponder. Most locksmiths have a device to program new keys for your particular vehicle model and make. This is an excellent alternative to taking your car to the dealership.
It's also important to remember that some shops, such as AutoZone will offer a key programming service. However, they typically cost significantly more than a locksmith. They do this because they benefit from the "scaling effect" that occurs when the number units sold increases. They can then pass on the savings to consumers.
Keys with Electronics
Modern keys come with chips or transponders which are linked to the car when the key is inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace than traditional keys because they require programming that is only performed by a dealership, auto locksmith or your vehicle's manufacturer. This process can cost up to $500 for a new key, the changing of the immobilizer's programming, and possible labor charges.
The best method to cut down on key cutting costs is by avoiding the necessity of replacing your keys in the first place. This means you should have a spare key in case you lose the original. You can purchase an additional key for $25 to $50 at the hardware store or a box store, depending 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 advantage of purchasing a factory key is that it will likely come with the right transponder chip. This is important, as you won't be able to use a car key that is aftermarket without having it professionally programmed.
The majority of box shops and hardware stores do not have the technology necessary to program modern car keys They can only offer basic duplication services. You can also visit an independent locksmith, auto repair shop or dealer to get them replaced.
Another thing to consider is that if you're planning on buying a cheap key from an online retailer, you'll need make sure it isn't already programmed to another vehicle. You can do this by looking at the key blade for a chip or for an open cutout that has evidence of a previous key.
A key duplication machine is another option however it's not affordable for most people. The machine usually costs more than the blank keys and you'll need cut a lot of keys to make a profit. If you're not comfortable with this, a vice or hand file are a much more affordable alternative. This is not the safest option because it can damage the key's electronic components or even break the key in the lock.
Keys with Key Fobs
A lot of modern cars have key fobs that are remote controls to lock and unlock your car and also to start the engine. These are basically mini remote transmitters that connect to the onboard computer of your vehicle using radio waves to transmit commands. They're a benefit for drivers, however they can be expensive to replace or duplicate in the event that you lose one.
Key fobs are more expensive than traditional keys due to their sophisticated electronics. Key fobs must also be programmed prior to their use with your vehicle, which could add up in costs as well.
A new key and fob can cost up to $300 in the event that you lose your sole functional fob. However, Consumer Reports says you can cut the cost of a replacement fob to as little as $50 by purchasing it online. Amazon, Walmart, or an auto-parts store might have an appropriate key fob for your car model. Some of these keys may need to be laser-cut by a locksmith or programmed by your local dealer, but a lot can be programmed by the customer with relative ease (though some require two working keys to accomplish this).
Key fobs from the standard model can be replaced for less than the more sophisticated models due to the fact that they don't have an embedded chip which requires reprogramming. While they can be expensive to duplicate if you have to design templates for a lost or damaged key, the cost is much less than purchasing a new set of keys from a car dealer.
Another method to reduce your costs for cutting keys is to purchase an entirely new shell for your current key fob. Batteries Plus offers a selection of new shells that replace the outer plastic and buttons on your key fob while leaving the electronics inside unaltered. get car key cut 're a cost-effective method to refresh your keychain and save you the hassle of having to schedule an appointment at the dealership.
Keys for Keyless Entry
The car key fob has numerous advantages. They let you lock and unlock your vehicle without having to search for your keys, especially if you're carrying groceries or other heavy weights in your hands. If they've got this feature, they can help you open the trunk and hatch.
The disadvantage of these types of keys is that they tend to consume battery power and make it difficult to use for long periods of time. Furthermore, they can be difficult to program, based on the model and make. A lot of key fobs can be replaced with new ones from third-party providers like Pop-A-Lock. These are usually available at a lower cost than dealer-supplied options, by searching at the internet or go to your local hardware store.
If you own an ordinary key, duplicate costs are usually low, and can range between $10 and $15. You can also buy a replacement key at your local hardware or box retailer store. Newer keys that require specialized encryption typically cost more to replace, but. These keys are usually laser-cut and may be referred to as sidewinder keys or high-security keys. These keys have a thicker blade and less grooves on the shank. They have to be programmed by a specific machine found in a locksmith dealership.
It can be expensive to replace a key with a microchip and it is often necessary to visit a dealer in order to get the replacement code. They are also known as transponder keys or smart keys, and they come with electronic components that need to be verified by your vehicle before it can open doors or start the engine. A dealer typically charges between $150 and $300 for a new original key that includes both the key fob as well as a new transponder chip.
Keys with keyless entry can also be costly to replace in the event that you lose them or your key fob battery dies. Keyless entry keys are available in a majority of modern vehicles. They function by sending an electronic message from the key fob into the car's receiver. The car locks or unlocks itself according to the signal and opens the trunk and hatch when the key is in close proximity to the receiver.