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 that can help you get back on the road quickly.
You can buy replacements for traditional metal keys at any AutoZone location for less than $10. Dealers can offer more advanced options, such as the key fob or switchblade or transponder chip.
Traditional Keys
Cars with traditional keys have one key made of metal that has an elongated shaft and a head that fits into the lock. These keys have been in use for a long time, and although they're not as efficient as newer fobs or push-to-start devices, they provide a number of advantages over other alternatives. They're easy to use, affordable and provide an additional security measure. The traditional keys are robust and last longer than the vehicle.
If you own a standard key and would like to replace it, the process is straightforward at most AutoZone locations. Bring your key to the store, and an associate will match it with a new key that is made specifically for your vehicle's model year, year, and make. The key cutting machine will then trace the original contours and make an exact copy of the same shape. It takes only a few minutes and is much less costly than purchasing a replacement at a dealership.
Many people purchase traditional keys online to get them as quickly as possible. This can be a good option if you don't have long to wait for a locksmith, or when you don't wish to pay for the replacement of a key from a dealership. This option could cost more than hiring a locksmith particularly if the key that you require is chipped.
Using traditional keys can be a challenge when you're carrying luggage, groceries or even children using both hands. They can also easily become lost if they're not placed securely in your keychain or pocket. They're not as durable as other key types and don't have tracking devices that can aid you in finding them if you lose them.
If you lose your standard car key, then you'll require a professional automotive technician to install a brand new ignition. This process may take longer than a regular key replacement, however it will save you money in the end, by preventing you from needing to employ locksmiths to replace your car key.
Key Fobs
It wasn't that long ago that the loss of a car key was not a big problem. A locksmith would charge a small amount to replace your key, but it was not an issue. Modern automobiles come with advanced technology, and replacing a lost key could be a major trouble.
Key fobs are tiny plastic devices that can lock and unlock vehicles at the touch of a button. They also allow you to arm or disarm the alarm, and then open the trunk. The key fobs operate by transmitting 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 also be used to control security systems in your home.
If you have an electronic fob, it's essential to keep a spare key somewhere handy. This will save you the stress and cost of paying for a dealer to cut and program the new key, which can run over $200. Check your auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether it covers replacing lost keys fobs, if you own a vehicle that is newer.
Shopping online for an aftermarket fob is another option to save. Most of the time, you can find a basic fob for less than half the cost you would spend at a dealer. But, you'll have to cut it and programmed by a locksmith, or a company that provides the service.
Many locksmiths charge per hour to cut and program a replacement fob. The cost can vary based on the car model, year and key fob features. If you own a smart fob, be aware they are sometimes more difficult to program. You will need the owner's guide for your vehicle and to reset them, you'll need to follow the instructions.
A key fob can also be useful for apartment buildings without locks on all doors. Fobs can be used to open the door, meaning you don't need to worry about getting locked out when you are carrying groceries inside.
Smart Keys
A smart key is a microchip that only the car system is able to recognize. When inserted into the ignition, it triggers a sensor that opens the doors and then turns on the engine. This kind of key has many advantages, including convenience and enhanced security. However there are a few things to consider before buying one.
Most newer cars don't allow the use of traditional keys. To unlock and start a car, you need the key fob. Smart keys come with additional security features that help prevent theft. The fact that they transmit a different frequency signal each time the trunk or door opens is closed, for instance they are difficult for tech-savvy thieves to intercept. If car key replacement fob for the smart key is exhausted, the car can still be operated with a backup ignition key.
Smart keys also let you to secure your vehicle remotely by using an app on your smartphone. This is useful in situations where you must leave your car unattended when packing groceries into the trunk or going out for lunch. But, it is important to remember that if you lose your phone it will no longer be able to unlock and start your vehicle.
If you lose a smart-key, you'll need to contact roadside assistance and request a tow truck to the dealership, where they will be able to repair it. Locksmiths can typically create a traditional key but replacing a transponder or smart key will require special equipment that the dealership will have to supply.
A traditional key can be copied at an locksmith, however the new key may not function correctly if it isn't programmed correctly. If you don't have the original key, locksmiths can carry out the programming, but you will have to bring it back to the dealer to connect the computer chip. It could take a while in some cases. Be prepared to wait, if you've lost your smart keys.
Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance is an additional coverage you can get through your car insurance provider 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, locksmith services and fuel delivery. You could also be covered for the cost of a hotel room or rental car in the event that your vehicle breaks down.
The type of car keys you have can impact how easy it is to locate your way back to your car in the event you are locked out. Locksmiths are able to copy traditional keys, which are simple to duplicate. If your vehicle has laser cut, programmable smart key that has to be programmed by your dealer, it may take longer and cost more to get a new one fitted to your vehicle.
It's difficult to know when your car keys might be lost or damaged, but it's a good idea purchase a couple of extra sets so you always have one on hand. You can also buy a Bluetooth tracker that you can connect to your keys. It emits a signature that you can connect to a phone app to locate your lost key.
Whether your car is a more modern model with key fobs or an older one with a mechanical key, there is a good possibility that you'll need to replace it at some point. You may find that the teeth of your car key are starting to wear out or that it only will open the door a tiny bit when you turn the key. If you notice that the teeth of your car key are beginning to wear out, it's a good idea for you to call roadside assistance and have the key replaced.
A lot of auto insurance companies offer roadside assistance in their comprehensive policies. The coverage offered by this insurance can save you the cost of replacing a key or key fob in the case of loss or theft, but it's worth weighing the monetary savings against your insurance deductible, and how much time it could be to submit a claim.