Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me
Losing your car keys is a stressful and traumatic experience. Fortunately, a number of AutoZone locations provide key cutting services that can assist you in getting back on the road quickly.
You can buy replacements for traditional keys made of metal at any AutoZone location for less than $10. Dealers can provide you with more advanced options, such as the key fob or switchblade, or a transponder chip.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are only a single shaft of metal and head that fit into the lock. These keys have been in use for a long time. While they're not as efficient as modern fobs or push-to-start devices, they offer plenty of advantages over other alternatives. They're inexpensive, easy to locate and use and provide a physical source of security. Traditional keys are durable, and they can even outlast the vehicle itself.
If you have an ordinary key and want to replace it, the procedure is simple at the majority of AutoZone locations. Bring your key to the store, and an associate will match it with a blank key designed specifically for your vehicle's model year, year, and make. The key cutting machine will trace the original contours of the key and make a duplicate of exactly the same shape. It takes only about a minute, and it's less expensive than purchasing a replacement at the dealership.
Many people purchase traditional keys online in order to get them as soon as they can. This can be a good option if you don't have long to wait for a locksmith, or if you don't want to spend the money on the replacement of a key from a dealership. This method could cost more than hiring a locksmith particularly if the key that you need is a chip.
A few disadvantages to traditional keys are the fact that they're harder to use when carrying luggage, groceries, or kids with both hands. If they are not securely stored in your keychain or pocket, they can easily get lost. They aren't as durable as some other types of keys and don't come with integrated tracking devices to help you find them if they are lost.
If you lose your traditional car key, then you'll need to consult a professional automotive technician to install a new ignition. This process will take longer than a regular key replacement however it will be worth it in the end to avoid having to pay more on a locksmith for a car key replacement .
Key Fobs
In the past when keys went missing from cars, it was not a huge issue. It cost just a few dollars to get a locksmith to make the replacement, but it wasn't too difficult. Modern cars have advanced technology, and replacing a lost key can be a real trouble.
Key fobs are small plastic devices that lock and unlock a vehicle with the touch of a button. They can also disarm or arm the alarm, and open the trunk. They transmit an audio signal to the key reader in the ignition of your vehicle and then instructs the vehicle to open its doors and start the engine. Fobs can be used to control security systems at home.
If you own a fob, it is essential to keep an extra key in your pocket. This will help you avoid the stress and cost of paying for a dealership to cut and program a new key, which can exceed $200. Check your auto club membership or insurance policy to determine if it covers the cost of replacing lost keys fobs if you own a newer vehicle.
Shopping online for an aftermarket key fob is another way to save. Most of the time, you can find a basic fob for less than half the cost you would spend at an outlet. But, 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 vary based on the kind of car you have, the model year and the key fob's functions. If you own a smart fob, be aware they can be difficult to program. You'll need to consult the owner's guide for your specific vehicle and follow the steps for resetting them.
A key fob can also be useful for apartment buildings that do not have locks for all doors. Fobs can be used to open the door, meaning you don't need to worry about being locked out when carrying groceries inside.
Smart Keys
A smart key contains a microchip that only the car's system is able to recognize. When the smart key is placed into the ignition it opens the doors and starts the engine. This type of key offers numerous benefits, including convenience and enhanced security. However there are a few things to know before purchasing one.
Most modern cars do not accept traditional keys. Rather, they require a key fob or smart key to unlock and start the car. Smart keys come with additional security features that can help to prevent theft. The fact that they send a different frequency signal each time the trunk is opened or the door is closed, for example it makes them difficult for tech-savvy thieves to intercept. In addition when the battery for the smart key runs out the car will function with a backup key that can be inserted into the ignition.
Another benefit of smart keys is the capability to lock your car remotely using an app on smartphones. This is beneficial when you have to leave your car unattended when packing groceries into the trunk or going out for lunch. It is important to keep in mind that if your phone gets lost, it will not be able to unlock your car or even start it.
If you lose your smart keys contact roadside assistance to schedule a tow into the dealership so they can replace it. Locksmiths can make a traditional car key, but a smart key or transponder requires specialized equipment. The dealership has to supply this.
A traditional key can be copied at locksmiths, but the new key might not function properly if it isn't programmed correctly. A locksmith can provide the programming service, however in the event that you don't have the original, you'll have to bring it to the dealership so they can electronically pair the new chip to your vehicle. This could take a few days in some cases. Be prepared to wait you've lost your smart key.
Roadside Assistance
You can add roadside assistance to your auto insurance policy, or purchase it from third-party suppliers like credit card companies or AARP. It usually covers the cost of a range of services, such as towing or locksmith services, as well as fuel delivery. You could be covered for the cost of a hotel room or rental car in the event that your vehicle breaks down.
The type of car key you have will affect how easy it is to find your way back into your vehicle in the event you are locked out. For instance, traditional keys are fairly simple and can be copied by a majority of locksmiths on the spot. However, if your car is equipped with a laser-cut, programmable smart key that must be programmed by the dealer, it can take a lot longer and may cost more to get one replaced with your vehicle.
You can't predict the moment when your keys break or disappear It's best to keep a few spare sets in your possession. You can also purchase a Bluetooth key tracker to attach to your keys, which emits a signature that you can then connect to an application on your phone to locate your lost keys.
If your car is a more modern model that has keys or an older model that only has a mechanical key, there is a good possibility that you'll need to replace it at some point. The teeth on the car key could begin to wear down for instance, or you may notice 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 beginning to wear down, it's a good idea for you to call roadside assistance and have the key replaced.
Many insurance companies provide roadside assistance as part of their comprehensive policies. This coverage will save you money on a replacement key or fob if your car is stolen or is lost. However, it's important to weigh the savings against the insurance deductible as well as the time required to file an insurance claim.