How to Cut Your Car Key Cutting Cost
It's never a good thing to lose your car keys. Luckily, AutoZone has the technology and the parts to replace your key without having to pay a dealership.
Simply bring your current working key to an AutoZone location and an associate will match its contours using an on-site key cutting machine. It's about 20 percent less than buying from an agent.
Keys that have Transponder chips
Modern cars are equipped with key fobs, which provide security and convenience to owners. These devices aren't free. In some instances the cost of replacing a key fob which has been damaged or lost is high. There are methods to lower the cost of these devices. It's cheaper to buy a spare key now than to wait until you lose your car key and have to pay for the locksmith or towing fees.
The transponder chip (which takes its name from the words "transmitter + responder") has been a standard feature in cars since the mid-1990s. The technology was developed in response to rising levels of car theft. Transponders in cars transmit the secret code through a signal. When the key is inserted in the ignition the antenna will ring around it reads the signal. If the signal is in line with the password, the engine will begin. This is a big deal 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 used in computers and cell phones. They do not require constant power. They emit a low frequency electromagnetic signal which can be detected by special detectors that are placed on the ignition cylinder and key head.
We suggest that you visit your local locksmith if you require the spare key for your vehicle that has a transponder. Most locksmiths have a device to create new keys to match your vehicle model and. This is a great alternative to going to the dealership.
It is also important to know that some stores, like AutoZone will offer a key programming service. They typically charge more than professional locksmiths. They do this because they benefit from an "scaling effect" that occurs when the amount of units sold increases. They can then pass the savings to consumers.
Keys with Electronics
Modern keys are equipped with chips or transponders which are linked to the car when the key is turned in the ignition. key car cutting are more expensive to replace than traditional car keys because they require programming that can only be done by a dealership, auto locksmith, or your vehicle's manufacturer. The process can cost anywhere from to $500 for a new key, as well as reprogramming the immobilizer and possibly the cost of labor.
The best way to reduce cost of replacing car keys is to not require them in the first place. It is crucial to have an extra car key in case the original one is lost. You can buy a duplicate key at the hardware store or at a box store for about $25 to $50, based on the kind of key.
Many people are unaware that they can buy replacement keys from the manufacturer online at a discount. A factory-issued key will likely have the correct transponder. This is important, as you will not be able use 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 and therefore, they are unable to offer basic duplication services. You can also take them to a dealer or a reputable auto repair shop or a locksmith to get them replaced.
Another thing to think about is that if you're considering buying a cheap key 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 to find a chip or for a cutout that shows signs of a previous key.
The purchase of a key duplication device is a different option however it's not cost-effective for the majority of people. The cost of the machine is higher than keys with blanks, which means you'll need to cut numerous keys to break even. If you're not happy with that, a vice and hand file are a much more affordable option. It's not the best option as it could damage the key's electronic components or even break the key in the lock.
Keys with Key Fobs
Many modern vehicles come with key fobs that are remote controls that lock and unlock your car and even start the engine. These are basically mini remote transmitters that connect to the computer in your vehicle via radio waves to send commands. These are great features for drivers, but they are expensive to duplicate or replace if lost.
In contrast to traditional keys, which require a great locksmith, automotive dealer or a different specialist service provider to create keys, key fobs are equipped with sophisticated electronics and are therefore more expensive to produce than their basic counterparts. They also require to be programmed before they work with your vehicle, which could add up in cost too.
If you lose your sole functioning fob, it could cost upwards of $300 to have a new fob and key from the dealer. Consumer Reports claims that you can cut the cost of a new fob by as much as 50% if you purchase it online. Amazon, Walmart, or an auto parts shop might have a key fob that fits your car model. Some of these fobs may require laser cutting by locksmiths or programmed by your dealer in your area, but most are programmable by customers with relative ease (though some may require two working keys to do this).
Standard key fobs can be replaced for less than more sophisticated models due to the fact that they don't contain an embedded chip that needs to be reprogrammed. However, they can be costly to duplicate if you need to design an original template for a damaged or lost key, the cost is much lower than purchasing a brand new set of keys from a car dealer.
You can also lower your cost of cutting keys by buying a new shell to replace your old key fob. Batteries Plus offers a selection of shells that replace the outer plastic of your keychain and buttons, yet leave the electronics intact. These shells are a cost-effective option to updating your keychain without having to make an appointment with the dealer.
Keys with Keyless Entry
The car key fob comes with many benefits. They let you lock and unlock your vehicle without having to search for your keys, especially when you're carrying heavy groceries or other items in your hands. They can also help you open your hatch and trunk, in the event that they have this feature built in.
The disadvantage of these types of keys is that they tend to drain the battery, making it hard to use for long periods of time. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, they may also be difficult to program. A lot of key fobs can be replaced with new ones from third-party vendors like Pop-A Lock. If you search online or in your local hardware store, you'll often find them at a much lower price than dealer-supplied options.
If you already have a standard key, duplication costs can be as low as $10-$15. You may also be able purchase a replacement from your local hardware store or box chain retailers. However replacing keys that are more recent and require specialized encryption can be expensive. They are typically laser-cut and may be referred to as sidewinder keys or high-security keys. They have a more robust blade and less grooves on its shank. They must be programmed by a specific machine in a locksmith or dealership.
A key with chip could be expensive to replace and usually requires a trip to the dealership to obtain a replacement code. Keys with chips are also referred to as smart keys or transponder keys. They are equipped with electronics that must be verified before they can open doors or start engines. A dealer can charge between $150 and $300 for a brand new original key that includes both the key fob as well as an updated transponder chip.
Keys that have keyless entry could also be costly to replace in the event that you lose them or your key fob battery fails. Many modern cars come with these keys, which work by sending a signal from your key fob to a receiver inside your car. The car locks or unlocks itself based on this signal and opens the trunk and hatch when the key is within close proximity to the receiver.