Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me
Losing your car keys can be a stressful experience. Fortunately, a number of AutoZone locations provide key cutting services to assist you in getting back on the road as quickly as possible.
For less than $10, you can purchase an old-fashioned metal key at any AutoZone. For more advanced options like keys fobs, a transponder chip or switchblade key, you'll need to visit an authorized dealer.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys consist of only a single shaft of metal and head that fit into the lock. These keys have been in use for a long time, and although they're not as practical as newer fobs or push-to-start systems, they still offer plenty of advantages over other choices. They're affordable, simple to find and use, and provide a physical means of security. Traditional keys are durable as well, and often outlast the vehicle itself.
The majority of AutoZone stores can replace the standard key. The procedure is easy. Bring your current key to the store, and an associate will match it to the blank key that's made for your car's year model, make, and year. The key cutting machine will trace the original contours, and then create an exact copy of the same shape. It takes only some minutes and is less expensive than buying an entirely new key from the dealer.
Some people prefer ordering traditional keys online in order to receive them quickly. This is a good choice if you do not have time to wait for an auto locksmith or don't want to shell out for a dealership replacement key. This method may cost more than hiring a locksmith, especially if the key you require has a chip.
A few disadvantages to traditional keys are the fact that they're harder to use when you're carrying groceries, luggage, or children with both hands. If they're not properly stored in your keychain or pocket, they can easily be lost. They're not as durable as other key types, and they don't have built-in tracking devices to assist you in finding them if they are lost.
Another important thing to remember is that if you lose your traditional key, it could be necessary to see a professional automotive locksmith for the installation of a new ignition. This procedure is more time-consuming than a regular key replacement but it's worth it in the end to prevent you from needing to spend more money for a locksmith car key replacement.
Key Fobs
It wasn't long ago that the loss of a car key was not a huge issue. A locksmith would charge a small fee to replace your key however, it wasn't a big deal. Modern automobiles come with advanced technology and a replacement key can be a huge hassle.
Key fobs are small plastic devices that allow you to lock and unlock a vehicle at the push of a button. They also allow you to arm or disarm the alarm, and open the trunk. The key fobs work by sending a radio signal to the key reader in the ignition of your vehicle. This is then a signal to the vehicle to start its engine and open the doors. Fobs can be used to regulate security systems inside your home.
It is important to have an extra key in case you have fob. This will allow you to avoid the stress and cost of paying for a dealer to cut and program the new key, which can exceed $200. Check your auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether it covers the cost of replacing fobs for keys that have been lost if you have a newer car.
Online shopping for a replacement fob is another way to save. You can usually find an ordinary key fob for about half the price that you'd pay at a dealer. However, you'll need to cut it and have it programmed at a locksmith or a company that provides the service.
Many locksmiths charge an hourly fee to program and cut a replacement key fob. The cost can differ based on the model of your car and year as well as key fob features. Be aware that smart fobs can be more difficult to program. You'll need to consult the owner's manual for the specific vehicle, and follow the instructions for resetting them.
A key fob can also be handy in apartment buildings which don't have locks on every door. Fobs can be used to unlock the door, so you don't have to worry about being locked out while carrying groceries inside.
Smart Keys Keys
A smart key is a microchip which only the car system is able to recognize. When the smart key is put into the ignition it opens the doors and begins the engine. This type of key offers numerous benefits, including convenience and enhanced security. There are certain things you should be aware of prior to purchasing one.
The majority of modern vehicles do not accept traditional keys. To unlock and start a car, you need the key fob. Smart keys come with additional security features that can help to prevent theft. They are harder to intercept for tech-savvy thieves because they send a new frequency signal every time the trunk or door is shut. If the battery for the smart key goes out, the vehicle can still be operated using an alternative ignition key.
Smart keys also allow you to lock your car remotely with an app on your smartphone. This can be helpful if you need to leave your car unattended like when you load groceries into the trunk or out for lunch. It is important to keep in mind that if your phone gets lost, it won't be able unlock your car or even start it.
If you lose a smart key, you'll need to contact roadside assistance for an tow truck to the dealership and they can replace it. A locksmith can usually make a traditional key, however, replacing a transponder or smart key requires special equipment that the dealership will need to supply.
A traditional key can be copied by locksmiths, but the new key may not work properly if it isn't programmed correctly. A locksmith can provide the programming service, but if you don't own the original, you'll have to bring it to the dealership so that they can pair the new computer chip with your vehicle. In some instances it could take a few days to complete so be prepared for a wait in case you have lost your smart key.
Roadside Assistance
You can include roadside assistance in your auto insurance policy or purchase it from third-party suppliers such as credit card companies or AARP. It covers a wide range of services like towing, fuel delivery and locksmith services. It may also cover the cost of a rental car or hotel stay if your vehicle breaks down.
The type of car key you own can affect the ease with which you can get back into your vehicle in the event you are locked out. Most locksmiths can easily duplicate traditional keys, which are simple. If your car is equipped with an electronic laser cut smart key that needs to be programmed by the dealer, it will take longer and cost more to get a new key installed to your vehicle.
It's impossible to predict when your car keys might go missing or break down, but it's a good idea buy a few additional sets so that you always have one in your possession. You can also buy a Bluetooth tracker to connect to your keys. It emits a signature that can be connected to a smartphone app to locate your lost key.
You might need to replace your mechanical key at some point, regardless of whether it's an older model that has an ob-lock or a newer one that has keyfob. You may find that the teeth on your car key are starting to wear out or that it opens the door a little when you turn the key. If auto replacement key believe that your car key is starting to wear out it's a good idea contact roadside assistance and have the key replaced as soon as you can.
Many auto insurance companies include roadside assistance in their comprehensive policies. This coverage can help you avoid the expense of a replacement key or fob in the event of theft or loss, but it's worth weighing the monetary savings against your insurance deductible and how long it would be to file an insurance claim.