How to Cut Your Car Key Cutting Cost
It's never a good idea to lose your car keys. AutoZone offers the technology and replacement parts you need to replace your car keys without paying a dealership's high cost.
Bring a working key to an AutoZone store and an associate will match the contours on site using a key-cutting machine. It's about 20% less than going through a dealer.
car keys cut and programmed with Transponder chips
Many modern cars have key fobs that offer security and convenience to the car owner. However they come at a cost. In some instances the cost of replacing a key fob which is damaged or lost could be costly. The good news is that there are options to cut the costs associated with these devices. It's cheaper to have a spare car key now instead of waiting until you lose the key and you are facing the cost of a locksmith's visit or towing fees.
Since the mid-1990s the transponder chip has been an integral part of all automobiles. Its name comes from "transmitter and responder". This technology was created in response to rising levels of theft from cars. In essence, the chip in a car transponder transmits signals that contain an encrypted password. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the antenna ring around the ignition cylinder reads this signal and when it matches the password, the engine will start. key cut places near me is important as most thieves will simply hot-wire the vehicle and then drive off.
Transponder chips work on the same principle as the microchips used in computers and cell phones. They do not require constant power. Instead, they send an electromagnetic signal at a low frequency which can be detected by special receivers placed in the ignition key's cylinder, or on the head itself.
If you need to have an extra car key made for a car equipped with a transponder chip, we highly recommend that you visit your local locksmith. The majority of locksmiths have a device that can program new keys for the make and model of your vehicle. This is a great alternative to going to the dealership.
It is also important to know that some stores such as AutoZone will offer a key programming service. However, they usually charge significantly more than locksmiths. They do this because they profit from an "scaling effect" that occurs when the number units sold rises. In this way, they could transfer their savings to the consumer.
Keys with Electronics
Modern keys are equipped with transponders or chips which pair to the vehicle whenever the key is put into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace than traditional keys because they require programming, which can only be performed by a dealership or auto locksmith. This process can cost up to $500 for a new key, the programming of the immobilizer and possible labor charges.
The best way to reduce the expense of replacing your car keys is to not have them in the first place. It is essential to have a spare car key in the event that the original one is lost. You can purchase a cheap duplicate key at an hardware store or box store for between $25-$50, based on the kind of key.
Many people are unaware that they can purchase replacement keys from the manufacturer online at a reduced price. The advantage of buying an original key is that it will likely be equipped with the right transponder chip. This is important because you won't be able to use an aftermarket key unless it has been professionally programmed.
The majority of hardware stores and box shops do not have the technology necessary to program modern car keys, so they can only offer basic duplication services. You can also visit an independent locksmith, a repair shop or dealer to get them replaced.
Another thing to think about is that if you're thinking of purchasing a key for a low price from an online retailer, you'll need make sure it isn't already programmed to another vehicle. This can be done by examining the blade of the key for chips or an open cutout that has evidence of an earlier key.
A key duplication machine is another option, but it won't be affordable for most people. The machine usually costs more than the blank keys and you'll need to cut a lot of keys to make a profit. If you don't feel at ease with a vice hand-files are a more affordable alternative. This is not the safest alternative as it can cause damage to the electronic components of the key or break the key in the lock.
Key Fobs with Keys
Modern cars come with remote controls that can lock and unlock the car and also start the motor. They are basically miniature remote transmitters that communicate with the onboard computer of your vehicle using radio waves to transmit commands. These are a great convenience for drivers but can be costly to duplicate or replace if lost.
Key fobs are more expensive than standard keys due to their sophisticated electronic components. Key fobs must also be programmed before they work with your vehicle, which can increase the cost as well.
A new key and fob can cost up to $300 when you lose your only functional fob. Consumer Reports claims that you can reduce the cost of a new fob by as much as 50% if you purchase it on the internet. Search for an appropriate key fob that matches your car's model at Amazon, Walmart or an auto-parts shop. Some of these keys may require laser cutting by a locksmith or programmed by your local dealer, but a lot can be programmed by the customer easily (though some may require two working, current keys to do this).
Standard key fobs can be replaced for less than more advanced models since they do not have an embedded chip which must be reprogrammed. They are still expensive to duplicate if you've got damaged or lost keys and require a template to make them again however, they are more affordable than the cost of replacing an entire key set from your dealer for your car.
You can also lower your cost of cutting keys by purchasing a new shell to replace your old key fob. Batteries Plus offers a selection of shells that will replace the plastic exterior of your keychain and buttons, while leaving the electronic components intact. These shells are a cost-effective option to upgrade your keychain without making an appointment with a dealer.
Keys with Keyless Entry
Car key fobs offer numerous advantages. They allow you to lock and unlock your car without having to locate your keys, especially when you're carrying groceries or other heavy items in your hands. If they've got this feature built-in they will help you open your hatch and trunk.
The drawback to these kinds of keys is that they tend to consume battery power, making it hard to use them for long periods of time. Furthermore, they can be difficult to program, based on the vehicle's make and model. Many key fobs are easily repaired by purchasing new ones from third-party providers like Pop-A-Lock. If you search online or in your local hardware store, you'll typically find them for less than the dealer-supplied alternatives.
If you already have a standard key then duplication costs can be as just $10 to $15. You might also be able purchase a replacement at your local hardware store or box chain retailers. Newer keys that require specialized coding typically cost more to replace, however. These keys are usually laser-cut and sometimes called sidewinder keys or high security keys. These keys are made with a thicker blade and have fewer grooves on the shank. They need to be programmed using a special machine in a locksmith or dealership.
A key with a chip can be quite expensive to replace and usually requires the visit to a dealership to obtain a replacement code. These are commonly called smart or transponder keys, and they are equipped with electronics that need to be verified by your car before it will open any doors or start the engine. Dealers will charge between $150-$300 for a key that includes the key fob, as well as the transponder chip.
Keys with keyless entry can also be expensive to replace if you lose them or your key fob battery is dead. Keyless entry keys can be found in most modern cars. They function by sending an electronic message from the key fob into a receiver within your car. The car then locks or unlocks according to the signal and opens the trunk and hatch when the key is in close proximity to the receiver.