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 parts to replace your keys without overpaying at the dealership.
Bring a working key to an AutoZone store and an associate will match the contours of the site using a key-cutting machine. On average, this is 20% less than going through a dealer.
Keys with Transponder Chips
Many modern vehicles have key fobs which provide security and comfort for the owner of the vehicle. However they come at costs. In some instances it can be high to replace a damaged or lost key fob. car key cutting and programming is that there are ways to lower the costs associated with these devices. It's cheaper to buy a spare key now instead of waiting until you lose your car key and have to pay for a locksmith or towing charges.
Since the mid-1990s the transponder chip had been an integral part of all cars. The name derives from "transmitter and responder". The technology was created to combat the rising number of car thefts. Transponders in cars transmit the secret code through a signal. When the key is inserted into ignition, an antenna ring around the ignition cylinder detects the signal and, if it matches with the password, the engine starts. This is crucial because the majority of thieves will simply hot-wire the vehicle and drive off.
Transponder chips operate in a similar way to the microchips in computers and cell phones. The different is that they do not need constant power to work. They emit a low frequency electromagnetic signal which can be detected by special detectors placed on the ignition cylinder as well as the key head.
We recommend visiting your local locksmith if you need a spare key for a vehicle with transponder. Most locksmiths will have a tool to program new keys for the model and make of your car. This is a fantastic alternative to visiting a dealership.
Also, it's important to know that some stores such as AutoZone offer a key-programming option. However, they usually cost more than locksmiths. This is due to the fact that they can benefit from the "scaling" effect that occurs when the number of units sold rises. They can then pass the savings to the consumers.
Keys with Electronics
Modern keys are equipped with transponders or chips that connect with the vehicle when the key is placed into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace than traditional keys as they require programming, which can only be completed by an auto locksmith or a dealership. The process could cost as much as $500 for new keys, the changing of the immobilizer's programming, and possible labor charges.
The best way to reduce car key replacement costs is to not need them in the first place. It is crucial to have a spare car key in the event that the original is lost. You can buy a duplicate key at the hardware store or at a box store for between $25-$50, based on the type of key.
Many people are unaware that they can buy replacement keys from the manufacturer online at a reduced price. The benefit of buying an original key is that it's likely to have the right transponder chip. This is important because you won't be able to use an aftermarket key without having it professionally programmed.
The majority of hardware stores and box stores don't have the capability to program modern car keys, which is why they only offer basic key duplication services. You can also bring them to a dealer or a reputable auto repair shop, or a locksmith to have them replaced.
Another thing to take into consideration is that if you're thinking of buying a cheap key from an online retailer, you'll have to ensure that it's not programmed to a vehicle belonging to someone else. You can do this by checking the key blade for chips or an open cutout that has evidence of the previous key.
Purchasing a key duplication machine is an alternative, but it won't be cost-effective for the majority of people. The machine usually costs more than the blank keys and you'll need cut a lot of keys to break even. If you don't feel at ease using a vice, hand-files are an option that is more affordable. However, this isn't the safest method because it may damage the key's electronics or break the key off inside the lock.
Key Fobs with Keys
Modern cars are equipped with remote controls that lock and unlock the vehicle, and also start the motor. These are small remote transmitters that communicate with the computer onboard of your vehicle using radio waves. These are a great convenience for drivers but can be expensive to duplicate or replace in the event of loss.
Key fobs are more expensive than traditional keys because they contain sophisticated electronics. Fobs also require programming to work with your vehicle, which can also add cost.
If you lose your sole working fob, it could cost up to $300 to get a replacement original fob and key from the dealership. Consumer Reports claims that you can reduce the cost of a new fob by up to 50% if you buy it online. Search for a key fob for your car's model at Amazon, Walmart or an auto-parts store. Some of these fobs may require laser cutting by locksmiths or programmed by a dealer in your area, but most can be customer-programmed with ease (though some require two working keys to do this).
Key fobs that are standard can be replaced for less than more advanced models because they do not contain an embedded chip that requires reprogramming. Although they can be costly to duplicate if you need to create templates to replace a damaged or lost key it is less than purchasing a new set of keys from a car dealer.
You can also lower your key cutting expenses by buying a new shell to replace your old key fob. Batteries Plus offers a selection of new shells that replace the plastic outer and buttons on your keychain, and leave the electronics inside unaltered. They're a cost-effective method to refresh your keychain, and save you the headache of trying to schedule an appointment at the dealership.
Keys for Keyless Entry
The car key fob has many advantages. They let you lock and unlock your vehicle without having to search for your keys, especially if you're carrying heavy groceries or other weights in your hands. If they've got this feature built-in they will assist you to open your trunk and hatch.
These keys aren't ideal for long-term use because they can drain your battery. Furthermore, they can be difficult to program, depending on your vehicle's make and model. Fortunately, many key fobs are reprogrammable with replacements purchased from third-party suppliers like Pop-A-Lock. If you search online or visit your local hardware store, you'll typically find them for significantly less than the dealer-supplied alternatives.
If you already have a standard key then duplication costs can be as low as $10-$15. You can also purchase a replacement key at your local hardware store or box retailer store. Keys that are newer and require specialized coding typically cost more to replace, however. Keys that are laser-cut, often referred to as sidewinder or high-security keys. They have a more robust blade and have fewer grooves on the shank. They have to be programmed using a special machine at a locksmith or dealership.
A key that has chip could be costly to replace and often requires an appointment with a dealer to have the replacement coded. They are also known as transponder keys or smart keys, and they are equipped with electronics that must be validated by your vehicle before it will open any doors or start the engine. Dealers charge between $150-$300 for a key that comes with the key fob, as well as transponder chips.
Keys with keyless entry may also be costly to replace if you lose them or your key fob battery is dead. Most modern cars have these keys, which work by sending a signal from your key fob to a receiver in your car. The car locks or unlocks the car on the signal. It also opens the trunk and hatch when the key is near the receiver.