Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me
Losing your car keys can be a stressful experience. Many AutoZone stores provide key cutting services to help you return to the road in a hurry.
For less than $10, you can get an old-fashioned metal key at any AutoZone. Dealers can offer more advanced options, like an electronic key fob, a switchblade, or a transponder chip.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are one metal shaft and head that are inserted into the lock. These keys have been the standard for a long time. While they're not as practical as modern fobs or push-to-start devices, they offer plenty of advantages over other choices. They're easy to use, cost-effective and provide an additional security measure. Keys made of traditional materials are durable, as well, and often outlast the vehicle itself.
If you own an ordinary key and need to replace it the process is fairly straightforward at most AutoZone locations. Bring your current key to the store and an associate will match it with the blank key that's designed for your car's year, make, and model. The key cutting machine will trace the original contours and make an exact replica with the same shape. It takes only some minutes and is much less expensive than purchasing the new key from the dealer.
Many people purchase traditional keys online to receive them as fast as possible. This is a good choice for those who do not have the time to wait for an auto locksmith, or if you don't want to shell out for a dealership replacement key. But be aware that this method can cost more than a professional locksmith especially if you need an alternative key that has a chip in it.
Traditional keys can be difficult when you're carrying luggage, groceries, or children in both hands. If they're not securely tucked into your pocket or keychain they could easily get lost. They're not as robust as other types of keys and don't come with tracking devices that can aid you in finding them if you lose them.
If you lose your standard car key, you'll have to speak with an expert automotive technician to install a new ignition. This service may take longer than a regular key replacement, but it will save you money in the end, by not having to hire a locksmith to replace your car keys.
Key Fobs
It wasn't that long ago that the loss of a car key was not a major issue. It could cost a little money to have a locksmith create an exchange, but it wasn't a major hassle. Modern cars are equipped with sophisticated technology and a replacement key can be a real hassle.
Key fobs, which are small, plastic devices, are able to unlock and lock your car at the touch of one button. They can also disarm the alarm, or arm it, and open the trunk. They function by sending a signal through radio waves to the key reader in the ignition of your car and then instructs the vehicle to open its doors and begin the engine. Fobs can be used to control security systems at home.
It is essential to keep a spare key handy if you have fob. This will help you avoid the stress and expense of having to pay for a dealership to cut and program the new key, which can exceed $200. Check your auto club membership or car insurance policy to determine if it covers replacing fobs for keys that have been lost if you own a vehicle that is newer.
Shopping online for an aftermarket key fob is another way to save. In most cases, you can get an ordinary fob for less than half the price of what you'd buy from an outlet. You'll still need to have the key fob programmed and cut by a locksmith.
Many locksmiths charge an hourly fee to cut and program a replacement key fob. The cost will vary based on the type of car you own, the make and year, and the key fob's features. If you have a sophisticated fob, you should be aware that these can sometimes be trickier to program. You will require the owner's guide for your vehicle. To reset them, you'll need follow the steps.
Key fobs are also useful for apartment buildings without locks for all doors. The fob can be used to unlock the door so you won't be locked out while you are taking groceries into.
Smart Keys Keys
A smart key has a microchip that only the car's system is able to recognize. When replacement key for car near me is inserted into the ignition it opens the doors and begins the engine. This kind of key comes with many benefits, including added security and convenience. There are a few things you should know before buying one.
Most modern cars do not accept traditional keys. Instead, they require a key fob or smart key to unlock and start the vehicle. Smart keys come with additional security features that help prevent theft. The fact that they transmit an entirely different frequency signal every time the trunk is opened or the door is closed, for instance, makes them harder for thieves who are tech-savvy to snare. In addition, if the battery of the smart key is depleted, the car will still be able to operate using a backup key that could be put into the ignition.
A smart key also allows you to secure your vehicle remotely by using an app on your smartphone. This is helpful when you have to leave your vehicle unattended while taking groceries out of the trunk or taking a trip out for lunch. It is important to keep in mind that if your phone gets 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 to bring a tow truck to the dealership and they will be able to replace it. Locksmiths can typically create a traditional key however, replacing a transponder or smart key requires special equipment that the dealership will be able to offer.
A locksmith can duplicate keys from traditional keys, however if the key is not properly programmed, it will not function correctly. A locksmith can provide the programming service, but if you don't have the original, you'll have to take it to the dealership so they can pair the new chip with your vehicle. This can take several days in some instances. Be prepared to wait you've lost your smart keys.
Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance is an additional protection that you can obtain through your car insurance company or through third-party companies like credit card companies and AARP. It typically covers the cost of a variety of services, such as towing or locksmith services, as well as fuel delivery. You may be covered for the cost of a hotel room or rental car in the event of your vehicle breaking down.
The kind of car key you own can affect the ease with which you can get back into your vehicle in the event of being locked out. Locksmiths are able to copy traditional keys, which are relatively easy to copy. If your car has an electronic laser cut smart key that needs to be programmed by your dealer it may take longer and cost more to get a new key installed to your vehicle.
It's impossible to predict when your car keys might disappear or become damaged, but it's a good idea buy a few spare sets to ensure you have one in your possession. You can also buy a Bluetooth key tracker to attach to your keys, which emits a unique signature that you can connect to an app on your phone to locate your lost keys.
You may need to replace your mechanical key at some point, regardless of whether it's an older model that has a keyfob or a newer one that has a keyfob. You might find that the teeth of your car key are beginning to wear out, or that it only opens the door a little when you turn the key. If you suspect that your car key is starting to wear down, it's a good idea contact roadside assistance and have the key replaced as fast as you can.
Many insurance companies offer roadside assistance in their comprehensive policies. Having this coverage can help you avoid the expense of a replacement key or key fob in the case of loss or theft However, it's important to weigh the monetary savings against the insurance deductible and how long it would be to make a claim.