Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me
Losing your car keys can be an incredibly stressful experience. Many AutoZone stores offer key cutting services that can help you return to the road quickly.
For less than $10, you can purchase an old-fashioned metal key at any AutoZone. Dealers can offer more advanced options, such as the key fob or switchblade, or a transponder chip.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys consist of only a single shaft of metal and head that are inserted into the lock. They've been used for a long time and, although they may not be as practical as the latest fobs or push-to start systems, they have many advantages over other alternatives. They are affordable, 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 a standard key and would like 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 a blank key that's specifically designed for your vehicle's year and make. The key cutting machine will trace the original contours, and then create a copy with the exact same shape. It takes only a few minutes and is much less costly than buying a new one at a dealership.
Some people like to order traditional keys online to obtain them quickly. This can be a good option if you don't have much time to wait for a locksmith, or in case you don't want to spend the money on a dealership key replacement. But be aware that this method could cost more than a professional locksmith, particularly if you require the replacement of a key with chip in it.
A few downsides to using traditional keys include the fact that they're harder to use when you're carrying groceries, luggage, or even kids using both hands. If they're not securely placed in your keychain or pocket, they can easily become lost. They're not as robust as other keys and don't have tracking devices that can assist you in locating them should you lose them.
If you lose your traditional car key, you'll have to speak with an expert automotive technician to install a new ignition. This service is more time-consuming than a standard key replacement but it's worth it in the long run to prevent having to spend additional money on a locksmith for a car key replacement.
Key Fobs
It wasn't long ago that losing a car key was not a huge problem. It would cost you some money to have a locksmith create a replacement however it wasn't too difficult. Modern cars have advanced technology and a replacement key could be a major problem.
Key fobs are small, plastic devices that allow you to lock and unlock a vehicle with the touch of a button. They also allow you to arm or disarm the alarm, and open the trunk. They transmit a signal through radio waves to the key reader located in the ignition of your car, which then tells the vehicle to open its doors and begin the engine. Fobs can also be used to control home security systems.
If you own an electronic fob, it's important to keep a spare key somewhere handy. This will help you avoid the stress and cost of paying for a dealership to cut and program an entirely new key, which can cost upwards of $200. If you have a newer vehicle, you should check your insurance policy or auto club membership to determine whether they will cover the cost of replacing the lost key fob.
Online shopping for an aftermarket fob is another way to save. Often, you can find an ordinary fob for less than less than the cost you would pay at an outlet. But, you'll need to cut it and programmed at a locksmith or a business that offers that service.
Many locksmiths charge an hourly fee to cut and program a replacement key fob. replacement key for a car can vary depending on your car model, year and key fob features. If you have a sophisticated fob, be aware these can sometimes be trickier to program. You'll need the owner's guide for your vehicle. To reset them, you'll need follow the steps.
Key fobs are also useful for apartment buildings that do not have locks on all doors. You can use the fob to unlock the door so you won't be locked out when you're carrying groceries in.
Smart Keys
A smart key is a microchip that only the car system is able to recognize. When it is inserted into an ignition, it triggers sensors that open the doors and switches on the engine. This type of key offers many advantages, including convenience and security. However there are a few points to be aware of prior to purchasing one.
Most newer cars don't allow the use of traditional keys. Rather, they require the use of a key fob or a smart key to unlock and start the vehicle. Smart keys also have added security features that assist in preventing theft. They are more difficult to steal for thieves with a technological edge because they transmit a new frequency signal each when the door or trunk is shut. If the smart key battery runs out, the car can still be operated by an alternative ignition key.
Another benefit of smart keys is the ability to lock the vehicle remotely using the app on a smartphone. This is useful if you need to leave your car unattended like when you load groceries into the trunk or going out for lunch. It is important to keep in mind that if your phone is lost, it won't be able unlock your car or even start it.
If you lose your smart key contact roadside assistance to schedule a tow into the dealership so they can replace it. Locksmiths can typically create a traditional key but replacing a transponder or smart key will require special equipment that the dealership will need to supply.
A locksmith can copy a traditional key, but if the key is not programmed correctly, it may not function correctly. A locksmith can provide the programming service, but in the event that you don't have the original, you'll have to get it towed to the dealership so that they can electronically pair the new chip to 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 additional protection that you can obtain through your car insurance company or through third-party providers such as credit card companies and AARP. It covers a wide range of services like towing, fuel delivery and locksmith services. It may also cover the costs of a rental car or hotel stay if your vehicle fails to start.
If you're locked out of your car, the kind of key you've got will determine how easy it is for you to gain access. For example keys that are traditional are simple and can be copied by a majority of 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 money to get a new key installed to your vehicle.
It's impossible to predict the moment when your car keys will be lost or damaged, but it's a good idea buy a few extra sets so you have one on hand. You can also buy a Bluetooth key tracker to attach to your keys, which emits a signature that you can then connect to an app on your smartphone to locate your lost keys.
It is possible to replace your mechanical key at some point, regardless of whether it's an older model with keyfob, or a more modern one with a keyfob. You may notice that the teeth of your car key are starting to wear out, or that it opens the door a little when you turn the key. If you notice that the teeth of your car key are beginning to wear out, it is recommended to call roadside assistance to replace the key.
Many auto insurance companies offer roadside assistance as part of their comprehensive policies. Having this coverage can save you the cost of a replacement key or key fob in the case of loss or theft, but it's worth weighing the monetary savings against your insurance deductible, and the length of time it will take to make a claim.