Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me
Losing your car key is a stressful and traumatic experience. Many AutoZone stores offer key cutting services to help you get back to the road in a hurry.
For less than $10, you can get the traditional metal key at any AutoZone. For more advanced options like the key fob, transponder chip or switchblade key, you'll have to go to an agent.
Traditional Keys
Cars with traditional keys have one key made of metal, with a shaft and head that fit into the lock. They have been in use for a long time, and while they may not be as user-friendly as the newer fobs, or push-to-start systems, they are more efficient than other alternatives. They're affordable, simple to locate and use and offer a physical form of security. The traditional keys are also robust and last longer than the vehicle.
If you have a standard key and you would like to replace it, the process is straightforward at a majority of AutoZone locations. Bring your current key to the store and an associate will match it with an uncut key that's designed for your car's year and make. The key cutting machine will trace the key's original contours and make a duplicate of exactly the same shape. It only takes just a few minutes and is less expensive than paying for a replacement at a dealership.
Some people order traditional keys online in order to receive them as fast as possible. This is a great option for those who do not have the time to wait for an auto locksmith, or if you do not want to pay for a dealer replacement key. This option 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. If they're not securely placed in your pocket or keychain, they can easily become lost. They're not as durable as other types of keys and don't have built-in tracking devices that can aid in finding them should they're lost.
If you lose your traditional car key, you will need to consult a professional automotive technician to install a new ignition. This procedure may take a bit longer than a typical key replacement, but it will save you money by making it less necessary to employ a locksmith to replace your car keys.
Key Fobs
In the past when keys went missing from cars, it was not a huge issue. It could cost a little money to get a locksmith to make the replacement but it wasn't a major hassle. Modern automobiles come with advanced technology and a replacement key could be a major hassle.
Key fobs, which are small plastic devices that can secure and unlock your car by pressing a single button, disarm the alarm, or arm it, and also open the trunk. They work by transmitting a signal through radio waves to the key reader located in the ignition of your vehicle and then instructs the vehicle to open its doors and begin the engine. Fobs can also be used to control security systems for your home.
It is important to have an extra key on hand if you own fob. You will avoid the hassle and expense of paying an expert to cut and program a key, which could cost you more than $200. If you own a newer vehicle, make sure you check your car insurance policy or auto club membership to see whether they will cover the cost of replacing the lost key fob.
Shopping online for an aftermarket fob is another way to save. It is possible to find a basic key fob at less than half the cost you'd pay at a dealership. However, you'll need to cut it and have it programmed by a locksmith, or a company that provides this service.
Many locksmiths charge an hourly fee to cut and program a new key fob. The cost will vary based on the type of vehicle you have, the model year, and the key fob's capabilities. If you have a smart fob, you should be aware that these can sometimes be trickier to program. You'll need to have the owner's manual for the specific vehicle and follow the steps to reset them.
A key fob is also beneficial for apartments that don't have locks for all doors. You can use the fob to unlock the door so you won't be locked out while you are taking groceries into.
Smart Keys
A smart key is a microchip which only the car's system is able to recognize. When the smart key is placed into the ignition the sensor opens the doors and begins the engine. This kind of key comes with numerous advantages, such as security and convenience. However there are some points to be aware of prior to buying one.
The majority of modern cars do not permit the use of traditional keys. To unlock and start a car, you need a key fob. Smart keys also come with security features that can assist in preventing theft. They are more difficult to steal for thieves with a technological edge since they send a different frequency signal each time the trunk or door is shut. If car key replacements for the smart key goes out, the vehicle can still be operated with an alternative ignition key.
A smart key also allows you to lock your car remotely using an app on your smartphone. This is useful if you need to leave your car at home, such as when loading groceries into 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 will need to call roadside assistance to bring an tow truck to the dealership, where they will be able to replace it. Locksmiths can make a traditional car key however a smart key, or transponder requires specialized equipment. The dealership must provide this.
A locksmith can duplicate a traditional key, but in the event that the key isn't properly programmed, it will not function properly. If you don't own the original key, a locksmith can do the programming, but you will have to bring it back to the dealer in order to connect the chip on your computer. This could take a few days in some cases. Be prepared to wait you've lost your smart key.
Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance is an additional insurance plan that you can purchase through your car insurance company 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 as well as locksmith services and fuel delivery. It can also cover expenses of a rental vehicle or hotel stay when your vehicle is damaged.
If you're locked out of your car, the kind of key you have will affect the ease of you to get back in. Most locksmiths can easily duplicate traditional keys, which are simple to duplicate. However, if your vehicle has a laser-cut, programmable smart key that has to be programmed by the dealer, it could take a long time and could cost more money to have it changed to match your car.
It's difficult to know when your car keys might be lost or damaged however it's a good idea to buy a few spare sets to ensure you always have one available. You can also purchase a Bluetooth key tracker to connect to your keys, which will emit a signature that you can connect to an app on your smartphone to locate your lost keys.
It is possible to replace your mechanical key at some point, whether it's an older model with keyfob, or a more modern one that has a keyfob. The teeth of your car key might begin to wear out, for instance, or you may discover that keys only open the doors a little at a time when you turn it. 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 to replace the key.
Many insurance companies offer roadside assistance in their comprehensive policies. This insurance can save you money on a replacement key or fob if your vehicle is stolen or is lost. However, it's important to consider the savings versus the insurance deductible as well as the time required to file an insurance claim.