Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me
Losing your car keys can be a stressful experience. Fortunately, a lot of AutoZone locations provide key cutting services to help you get back on the road quickly.
For less than $10, you can get the traditional metal key at any AutoZone. Dealers can offer more sophisticated options, such as an electronic key fob, a switchblade, or a transponder chip.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys consist of a single metal shaft and head that fits into the lock. These keys have been in use for decades, and while they're not as efficient as modern fobs or push-to-start devices, they offer plenty of advantages over other alternatives. They're affordable, simple to find and use, and provide a physical means of security. The traditional keys are also durable and last longer than a vehicle.
If you own a standard key and need 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 a blank key that's specifically designed for your car's year and make. The key cutting machine will trace the original contours and make a copy with the exact same shape. It takes only about a minute and is less expensive than purchasing a replacement at the dealership.
Many people purchase traditional keys online to get them as quickly as they can. This is a great option if you do not have time to wait for an auto locksmith or you don't want to shell out for a dealership replacement key. This method could cost more than hiring a locksmith, particularly if the key that you need has a chip.
A few disadvantages to traditional keys are the fact that they're harder to use when carrying groceries, luggage, or children with both hands. They are also prone to getting lost if they're not tucked securely into your keychain or pocket. replacement keys car as other types of keys and don't come with built-in tracking devices to aid in finding them should they are lost.
Another aspect to be aware of is that if you lose your traditional key, it may be necessary to visit a professional automotive locksmith to install a new ignition. This process will take longer than a normal key replacement, but it will be worth it in the long run to avoid having to pay more for a locksmith car key replacement.
Key Fobs
Not so long ago the time of misplacing a car keys wasn't really a big deal. It cost a little money to have a locksmith create a replacement, but it wasn't a huge hassle. Modern cars are equipped with sophisticated technology and a replacement key can be a real trouble.
Key fobs, small plastic devices that can lock and unlock your vehicle at the touch of one button. It can also deactivate the alarm, or arm it, and then open the trunk. Key fobs function by sending a radio wave to the key reader installed in the ignition of your car. The reader will then instruct the vehicle to start its engine and then open the doors. Fobs can be used to control security systems inside your home.
It is important to have an extra key in case you have fob. This will save you the stress and expense of having to pay for a dealer to cut and program an entirely new key, which could exceed $200. If you own a brand new vehicle, make sure you check your car insurance policy or auto club membership to determine if they cover the cost of replacing the lost key fob.
Online shopping for an aftermarket key fob is another way to save. You can often find a basic key fob at about half the price that you'd pay at a dealer. But, you'll need to have it cut and programmed at a locksmith or a company that provides the service.
Many locksmiths charge an hourly fee to cut and program a new key fob. The price can vary depending on your car model, year and key fob features. Be aware that smart fobs can be more difficult to program. You will require the owner's manual for your car and to reset them, you'll have follow the steps.
Key fobs are also useful for apartment buildings that do not have locks on all doors. The fob can be used to unlock the door, so you don't get locked out when taking groceries into.
Smart Keys
A smart key contains a microchip which only the car's system is able to recognize. When the smart key is inserted into the ignition it opens the doors and starts the engine. This type of key comes with many advantages, including convenience and enhanced security. However, there are a few things to know before purchasing one.
The majority of modern cars do not permit the use of traditional keys. To unlock and start a car, you need an electronic key fob. Smart keys also come with security features to help stop theft. They are difficult to track for thieves with a technological edge because they transmit a new frequency signal each time the trunk or door is shut. If the smart key battery is exhausted, the car can still be operated with the backup ignition key.
Another benefit of a smart key is the ability to lock your vehicle remotely using the app on the smartphone. This is helpful if you need to leave your vehicle unattended while taking groceries out of the trunk or taking a trip out for lunch. But, it is important to keep in mind that in the event that you lose your phone, it won't be able to unlock and start your vehicle.
If you lose your smart key Contact roadside assistance to arrange an appointment to take it to the dealership where they can exchange it. Locksmiths can create a traditional car key however a smart key, or transponder requires specialized equipment. The dealership must provide this.
A traditional key can be copied by a locksmith, but the new key might not function properly when it's not programmed correctly. Locksmiths can offer the programming service, but in the event that you don't have the original, you'll need to get it towed to the dealership so that they can electronically pair the new computer chip with your vehicle. This could take a few days in some cases. Be ready to wait if you've lost your smart key.
Roadside Assistance
You can include roadside assistance in your insurance policy for vehicles or obtain it through third-party providers such as credit card companies or AARP. It covers a wide range of services, including towing, fuel delivery and locksmith services. You could also be covered for the cost of a hotel or rental car in the event that your vehicle breaks down.
The kind of car key you own can affect the ease with which you can get back into your car in the event you are locked out. Most locksmiths can easily copy traditional keys, which are relatively simple. However, if your vehicle is equipped with a laser-cut smart key that needs to be programmed by the dealer, it could take a long time and could cost more to get one changed to match your car.
It's impossible to predict when your car keys might be lost or damaged however it's a good idea buy a few extra sets so you always have one available. You can also purchase a Bluetooth key tracker to connect to your keys. It emits a unique signature that you can connect to an application on your phone to locate your lost keys.
If your car is a newer model with key fobs or an older model with a mechanical key, there's a good possibility that you'll need to replace it at some point. The teeth on the car key could begin to wear out for instance, or you may discover that the key opens only the doors only a at a time when you turn it. If you suspect that your car key is beginning to wear out it's best to get assistance on the road and have the key replaced as quickly as you can.
Many auto insurers offer roadside assistance as part of their comprehensive policies. This coverage could save you money on a replacement fob or key in the event that your car is stolen or is lost. But, it's important to evaluate the savings against the insurance deductible, as well as the time it will take to make an insurance claim.