How to Cut Your Car Key Cutting Cost
The loss of your car keys isn't an ideal option. AutoZone offers the technology and replacement parts that you need to replace your car key without paying a dealership's high costs.
Bring a key that is working to an AutoZone store and an associate will match the contours of the site with a key-cutting machine. It's about 20 percent less than purchasing from dealers.
Keys with Transponder chips
A lot of modern cars come with key fobs that offer an element of security and convenience to the car owner. These devices are not free. In some cases, the cost of replacing a key fob that has been lost or damaged could be costly. There are ways to cut down on the costs of these devices. It's cheaper to purchase an extra key now rather than wait until you lose your car key and have to pay for locksmith services or towing costs.
The transponder chip (which is named after 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 vehicle theft. Transponders in cars transmit a secret code via a signal. When the key is inserted into the ignition, an antenna ring surrounding the ignition cylinder receives this signal and if it matches the password, the engine starts. This is a big deal since most thieves use hot wires to start it and then leave the scene.
Transponder chips function on a similar basis as microchips in cell phones and computers. They do not require constant power. They transmit a low frequency electromagnetic signal that can be identified by special detectors on the ignition cylinder as well as the key head.
If you're looking to get a spare car key created for a vehicle equipped with a transponder chip, we highly recommend that you visit your local locksmith. The majority of locksmiths have a tool to program new keys to the specific model and make of your vehicle. This is a fantastic alternative to visiting the dealership.
Also, it's important to note that stores such as AutoZone offer a key-programming option. However, they often cost higher than a locksmith. This is because they can take advantage of the "scaling" effect that occurs when the number of units sold increases. They can then pass the savings to consumers.
Keys with Electronics
Modern keys are equipped with chips or transponders which pair to the vehicle when the key is inserted into the ignition. These keys are more costly to replace than traditional keys as they require programming, which must be done by an auto locksmith or a dealership. 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 most effective method to save money on key cutting costs is by avoiding the necessity of replacing your keys in the first place. It is essential to have an extra car key in case the original key is lost. You can buy a duplicate key from the hardware store or at a box store for between $25-$50, based on the kind of key.
Many people don't realize that they can buy replacement keys from the manufacturer online or at a reduced price. The advantage of buying the factory key is that it will come with the proper transponder chip. This is important because you won't be able to use an aftermarket key without having it professionally programmed.
The majority of box shops and hardware stores do not have the tools needed to program modern car keys, so they can only offer basic duplication services. You can also visit a locksmith, independent auto repair shop or dealer to get them replaced.
Another thing to think about 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 a vehicle belonging to someone else. This can be done by checking the key blade to see if there is chips or a cutout that shows evidence of an old key.
The purchase of a key duplication device is another option, but it won't be affordable for the majority of people. The machine usually costs more than the blank keys themselves and you'll need cut a lot of keys in order to break even. If you're not comfortable using a vice, hand files are an alternative that is less expensive. However, this isn't the most secure method as it could cause damage to the electronic components of the key or even cut the key off inside the lock.
Key Fobs with keys
Modern automobiles are equipped with remote controls that lock and unlock the car and also start the motor. They are basically miniature remote transmitters that connect to your vehicle's onboard computer through radio waves to transmit commands. 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 traditional keys due to their sophisticated electronics. Key fobs must also be programmed prior to working with your vehicle, which can increase the costs as well.
If you lose your only functioning fob, it could cost you up to $300 to get a replacement fob and key from the dealership made. However, Consumer Reports says you can cut the cost of a replacement fob down to just $50 by purchasing it online. Look for a key fob that matches your car's model at Amazon, Walmart or an auto-parts shop. Certain key fobs will need to be laser-cut or programmed by the local dealer. However, many can be programmed by the customer.
Standard key fobs are much cheaper than more advanced models to replace because they don't come with an embedded chip that has to be reprogrammed following the fact. They can be costly to duplicate if you've damaged or lost keys and require a template to duplicate them but they're much more affordable than the cost of replacing an entire key set from the car's dealer.
You can also lower your key cutting expenses by purchasing a new shell to replace your old 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. he said 're a cost-effective way to refresh your keychain, and save you the hassle of trying to schedule an appointment with the dealership.
Keys with Keyless Entry
Car key fobs come with many advantages. They let you lock and unlock your vehicle without having to look for your keys. This is especially useful when you're carrying large quantities of groceries or other items in your hands. If they've got this feature they will assist you to open your trunk and hatch.
The disadvantage of these types of keys is that they often consume battery power, making it hard to use them for long periods of time. Additionally, they can be difficult to program, depending on the model and make. Fortunately, most key fobs can be replaced using replacements purchased from third-party suppliers like Pop-A-Lock. If you look online or visit your local hardware store, you'll often find these for less than the dealer-supplied options.
If you own a standard key, duplication costs are usually low and range between $10 and $15. You can also buy an additional key from your local hardware or box retailer store. Newer keys that require specialized encoding usually cost more to replace, but. Keys that are laser-cut, often called sidewinder or high-security keys. They have a larger shank and have less grooves carved out on the blade and must be programmed with a specific machine found in a dealership or locksmith shop.
A key with chips can be expensive to replace and usually requires an appointment with a dealer to have the replacement coded. These are commonly called transponder or smart keys and they are equipped with electronics that need to be verified by your vehicle before it will open any doors or start the engine. Dealers can charge between $150 and $300 for a key that has the key fob and a transponder chip.
If you lose your keys for keyless entry or if the battery inside your key fob goes out, it can be costly to replace them. Most modern cars have keys that function by transmitting a signal from the key fob to a receiver in your car. The car locks or unlocks the car based on the signal. It also opens the hatch and trunk when the key is in close proximity to the receiver.