Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me
Losing your car keys can be an incredibly stressful experience. Many AutoZone stores offer key cutting services to help you get back to the road in no time.
You can replace traditional metal keys at any AutoZone location for less than $10. Dealers can offer more advanced options, such as an electronic key fob, a switchblade, or a transponder chip.
Traditional Keys
Cars that have traditional keys have a single metal key with an elongated shaft and a head that fit inside the lock. These keys have been used as the standard for a long time, and although they aren't as convenient as the latest fobs and push-to-start devices, they have many advantages over other alternatives. They're easy to use, affordable and provide an additional security measure. The traditional keys are durable and last longer than the vehicle.
If you own a standard key and would like to replace it, the process is fairly straightforward at a majority of AutoZone locations. Bring your current key to the store, and an associate will match it with an uncut key that's designed for your car's year model, make, and year. The key cutting machine will trace the initial contours of the key and create a duplicate with exactly the same shape. It takes only about a minute, and it's less expensive than paying for a replacement at an auto dealer.
Many people purchase traditional keys online to get them as soon as possible. This can be a good option if you don't have long to wait for a locksmith, or in case you don't want to pay for the replacement of a key from a dealership. This method may cost more than hiring a locksmith particularly if the key that you need is chipped.
Using traditional keys can be a challenge when you're carrying your luggage, groceries or children in both hands. They can also easily become lost if they're not kept securely into your keychain or pocket. They're not as durable as other types of keys, and they don't have built-in tracking devices to help you find them if they are lost.
Another important thing to remember is that if you lose your traditional key, it will likely be necessary to see a professional automotive locksmith for the installation of a new ignition. This service may take longer than a standard key replacement, however it will save you money by preventing you from needing to employ locksmiths to replace your car key.
Key Fobs
It wasn't too long ago that the loss of a car key was not a major problem. It cost a little money to have a locksmith create an exchange, but it wasn't too difficult. Modern automobiles have advanced technology, and replacing a lost key could be a major hassle.
Key fobs, which are small, plastic devices, are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. It can also deactivate the alarm, or arm it, and then open the trunk. The key fobs operate by sending a radio signal to the key reader that is installed in the ignition of your vehicle. This then instructs the vehicle to start its engine and open the doors. Fobs can be used to regulate security systems inside your home.
It is crucial to keep a spare key handy if you have fob. This will help you avoid the stress and cost of paying for a dealer to cut and program a new key, which can cost upwards of $200. Check your auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether it covers replacing fobs for keys that have been lost if you own a vehicle that is newer.
Another way to save is to buy an aftermarket fob online. In most cases, you can get a basic fob for half the price of what you would spend at an outlet. You'll still need to have the key fob cut and programmed by locksmiths.
Many locksmiths charge an hourly fee to cut and program a replacement key fob. The price can vary depending on your car model and year as well as key fob features. Be aware that smart fobs could be more difficult to program. You'll need the owner's manual for the particular vehicle and follow the instructions for resetting them.
A key fob can also be useful in apartment buildings which don't have locks on every door. Fobs can be used to open the door, which means you don't have to fret about being locked out when carrying your groceries in.
Smart Keys Keys
A smart key is a microchip that only the car system is able to recognize. When it is inserted into an ignition, it activates a sensor that opens the doors and switches on the engine. This kind of key comes with many benefits, including added security and convenience. There are a few things you should be aware of before purchasing a key.
The majority of modern cars do not allow the use of traditional keys. Instead they require a key fob or smart key to unlock and start the car. Smart keys also have added security features that aid in protecting against theft. The fact that they transmit an entirely different frequency signal every time the door is opened or trunk is closed, for instance they are difficult for tech-savvy thieves to intercept. Additionally, if the battery for the smart key runs out the car will function with a backup key that can be placed in the ignition.
Smart keys also let you to lock your car remotely with an app on your smartphone. This is helpful when you need to leave your car unattended like when you load groceries into the trunk or taking a trip out for lunch. It is important to remember that if your phone is lost, it will not be able unlock your car or start it.
If you lose a smart-key, you'll need to contact roadside assistance to bring a tow truck to the dealership, where they will be able to replace it. Locksmiths can make traditional car keys, but a smart key or transponder requires special equipment. car key replacements must provide this.
A traditional key can be copied at locksmiths, but the new key might not function properly in the event that it's not properly programmed. If you don't have the original, locksmiths can perform the programming, but you will require it to be towed back to the dealer to pair the computer chip. In some instances it can take several days to complete and you should be prepared for a wait in case you have lost your smart key.
Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance is an add-on coverage you can get through your car insurance company or through third-party providers such as credit card companies and AARP. It usually covers the cost of a wide range of services, such as towing or locksmith services, as well as fuel delivery. It may also cover the cost of a rental car or hotel stay if your vehicle is damaged.
The type of car keys you own can affect the ease with which you can locate your way back to your vehicle in the event of being locked out. For example traditional keys are easy to copy and can be duplicated by most locksmiths on the spot. But, if your car has a laser-cut, programmable smart key that has to be programmed by the dealer, it can take a long time and will probably cost more to have one re-paired to your vehicle.
You don't know when your keys will break or disappear It's best to have a few spare sets in your possession. You can also buy a Bluetooth key tracker to connect to your keys, which will emit a signature that you can then connect to an app on your smartphone to track your keys.
Whether your car is a more modern model with a key fob or an older model that has only a mechanical key, there is a good chance you will need to replace it at some point. The teeth of your car key may start to wear down for instance, or you may discover that the key only opens the doors a tiny more when you turn it. If you notice that the teeth of your car key are starting to wear down, it's recommended to call roadside assistance and get the key replaced.
Many auto insurance companies offer roadside assistance as part of their comprehensive policies. The coverage offered by this insurance can help you avoid the expense of paying for a replacement key or key fob in the case of loss or theft however, it's worth weighing the monetary savings against your insurance deductible, and the length of time it will take to make an insurance claim.