Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me
Losing your car keys could be an incredibly stressful experience. Fortunately, many AutoZone locations provide key cutting services that can help you get back on the road in a hurry.
You can buy replacements for traditional keys made of metal at any AutoZone location for less than $10. For more advanced options like a key fob, transponder chip or switchblade key, you'll need go to a dealer.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are only a single shaft of metal and head that fits into the lock. They've been used for a long time, and while they might not be as user-friendly as the newer fobs, or push-to-start systems, they offer many advantages over other alternatives. They are affordable, easy to locate and use, and offer a physical form of security. Traditional keys are durable and they can even outlast the vehicle itself.
If you own an ordinary key and want to replace it, the procedure is simple at a majority of AutoZone locations. Bring your key to the store, and an associate will match your key with a blank key made specifically for your vehicle's model, year, and make. The key cutting machine will then trace the original contours and make an exact replica with the same shape. It only takes about a minute and is much less costly than purchasing a replacement at an auto dealer.
Many people purchase traditional keys online to get them as quickly as possible. This can be a good alternative if you don't have much time to wait for a locksmith to arrive or in case you don't want to invest in the replacement of a key from a dealership. This method could cost more than hiring a locksmith particularly if the key you need is a chip.
Traditional keys can be a challenge when you are carrying luggage, groceries or children with both hands. They also can easily get lost if they're not placed securely in your purse or keychain. They're not as durable as some other key types and don't have built-in tracking devices that can help you find them if they're lost.
Another aspect to be aware of is that when you lose your standard key, it may be necessary to see a professional automotive locksmith to install a new ignition. This service may take longer than a regular key replacement, however it will save you money in the end, by making it less necessary to employ an locksmith to replace your car key.
Key Fobs
Not so long ago when keys went missing from cars, it was not a major issue. replace keys might charge a fee to replace your key, but it was not a big deal. Modern cars come with advanced technology and replacing a lost key can be a huge trouble.
Key fobs are small plastic devices that allow you to lock and unlock a vehicle at the press of a button, disarm or arm the alarm, and also open the trunk. The key fobs work by sending a radio signal to the key reader in the ignition of your car. The reader then instructs the vehicle to start its engine and then open the doors. Fobs can be used to control security systems inside your home.
It is essential to keep an extra key on hand if you have a fob. This will save you the stress and expense of having to pay for a dealership to cut and program a new key, which can cost upwards of $200. Check your auto club membership or car insurance policy to determine whether it covers replacing lost keys fobs, if you own a newer vehicle.
Another way to save is to purchase an aftermarket fob on the internet. Often, you can find a basic fob for half the price of what you would spend at the dealer. It is still necessary to have the key fob programmed and cut by locksmiths.
Many locksmiths charge an hourly rate to program and cut a replacement key fob. The cost can vary based on your car model and year as well as key fob features. Be aware that smart fobs may be more difficult to program. You'll need to have the owner's guide for your specific vehicle and follow the instructions for resetting them.
A key fob can also be useful for apartment buildings that do not have locks for all doors. The fob can be used to unlock the door so you don't get locked out while you are carrying 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 the ignition, it activates an electronic sensor that opens the doors and then turns on the engine. This type of key offers numerous benefits, including convenience and increased security. There are certain things you should be aware of before purchasing a key.
Most newer cars don't allow the use of traditional keys. To unlock and start your vehicle, you need a key fob. Smart keys also have added security features that can assist in preventing theft. They are harder to intercept for tech-savvy thieves because they send a new frequency signal each when the door or trunk is shut. In addition in the event that the smart key battery depletes it will function with a backup key that can be put into the ignition.
Another benefit of a smart key is the ability to lock your car remotely using an app on smartphones. This is helpful when you have to leave your car in the garage unattended for instance, when you are loading groceries into the trunk or taking a trip out for lunch. It is crucial to remember that if your phone is lost, it won't be able to unlock your car or start it.
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 create a traditional car key however, a smart key or transponder requires special equipment. The dealership has to supply this.
A locksmith can duplicate the traditional key, but when the key isn't programmed correctly, it may not function correctly. A locksmith can provide the programming service, however in the event that you don't have the original key, you'll need to get it towed to the dealer so they can pair the new computer chip with your vehicle. In some instances it can take several days to complete so be prepared for a wait in case you lose 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 covers a broad range of services like towing, fuel delivery and locksmith services. You could be covered for the cost of a hotel or rental car in the event of your vehicle breaking down.
The type of car key you have can impact the ease with which you can find your way back into your car in the event that you get locked out. For instance keys that are traditional are simple to duplicate and can be done by most locksmiths on the spot. If your car is equipped with an electronic laser cut smart key that has to be programmed by the dealer, it may take longer and cost more to have an entirely new key fitted to your vehicle.
It's impossible to predict the time when your car keys could go missing or break down, but it's a good idea invest in a couple of spare sets to ensure you have one available. You can also purchase a Bluetooth key tracker to attach to your keys. It emits a signature that you can then connect to an app on your smartphone to locate your keys.
Whether your car is a more modern model that has keys or an older model that only has a mechanical key, there is a good chance you will need to replace it at some time. The teeth of the car key could begin to wear down, for instance, or you could notice that the key only opens the doors a little more when you turn it. If you notice that the teeth of your car key are beginning to wear out, it's recommended to call roadside assistance and have the key replaced.
Many auto insurers offer roadside assistance as part of their comprehensive policies. Having this coverage can help you avoid the expense of replacing a key or key fob in the case of loss or theft However, it's important to weigh the savings in money against your insurance deductible and how much time it could take to submit an insurance claim.