Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me
The loss of your car keys can be a stressful and stressful experience. Fortunately, many AutoZone locations offer key cutting services that can assist you in getting back on the road as quickly as possible.
For less than $10, you can replace a traditional metal key at any AutoZone. For more advanced options such as a key fob, transponder chip or switchblade key, you'll need to go to an agent.
Traditional Keys
Cars that have traditional keys come with a single metal key that has an elongated shaft and a 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 are affordable, easy to locate and use, and offer a physical form of security. Keys made of traditional materials are durable, and they can even outlast the vehicle itself.
Most AutoZone stores can substitute a standard key. The procedure is straightforward. Bring your current key to the store, and an associate will match it up with the blank key that's designed for your vehicle's year, make, and model. The key cutting machine will trace the original contours of the key and make a duplicate key with exactly the same shape. It takes only a few minutes and is less expensive than purchasing a replacement at an auto dealer.
Some people order traditional keys online to receive them as fast as they can. This is a great option if you do not have time to wait for an auto locksmith or you don't want to pay for a dealer replacement key. This option could cost more than hiring a locksmith particularly if the key that you require is chipped.
A few downsides to using traditional keys include the fact that they're harder to use when you're carrying luggage, groceries, or kids with both hands. If they are not securely placed in your pocket or keychain, they can easily become lost. They're not as robust as other keys and don't have tracking devices that will assist you in locating them should you lose them.
Another thing to keep in mind is that when you lose your standard key, it will likely be necessary to see a professional automotive locksmith to install an entirely new ignition. This process may take longer than a standard key replacement, however it will save you money in the end, by not having to employ locksmiths to replace your car key.
Key Fobs
It wasn't long ago that the loss of a car key was not a huge issue. It would cost you some money to get a locksmith to make an exchange but it wasn't a huge hassle. However, modern cars use advanced technology, and keys that are lost can be an absolute hassle to replace.
Key fobs are small, plastic devices that lock and unlock vehicles at the push of a button. They also allow you to arm or disarm the alarm, and also open the trunk. They work by transmitting a signal through radio waves to the key reader inside the ignition of your vehicle that then tells the vehicle to open its doors and start the engine. Fobs can also be used to control security systems in your home.
If you have an electronic fob, it's important to keep a spare key somewhere handy. You will save yourself the hassle and expense of having to pay an individual dealer to cut and program a new 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.
Another option to save money is to purchase an aftermarket fob online. Most of the time, you can find an inexpensive fob for half the price of what you would pay at a dealer. However, you'll need to cut it and programmed at a locksmith or a company that provides that service.
Many locksmiths charge per hour to cut and program a replacement fob. The cost can vary based on the car model and year, as well as the key fob's features. Be aware that smart fobs may be more difficult to program. You'll need to have the owner's manual for the specific vehicle, and follow the steps for resetting them.
A key fob is also beneficial for apartments that don't have locks on all doors. Fobs can be used to open the door, which means you don't have to worry about getting locked out when you are carrying groceries inside.
Smart Keys Keys
A smart key has a microchip which only the car's system can recognize. When inserted into the ignition, it triggers sensors that open the doors and switches on the engine. This type of key has many benefits, including added security and convenience. There are a few things you should be aware of before purchasing a key.
The majority of modern cars do not allow the use of traditional keys. Instead, they require an electronic key fob or smart key to unlock and start the car. Smart keys have additional security features that can help to prevent theft. The fact that they send a different frequency signal each time the door is opened or trunk is closed, for instance it makes them difficult for thieves with a technological edge to steal. If the smart key battery goes out, the vehicle can still be operated with a backup ignition key.
A smart key also allows you to secure your vehicle remotely by using an app on your smartphone. This can be helpful if you need to leave your car unattended, such as when loading groceries into the trunk or out for lunch. It is important to keep in mind that if your phone gets lost, you won't be able unlock your car or even start it.
If you lose a smart-key, you'll need to contact roadside assistance and request a tow truck to the dealership, where they will be able to replace it. Locksmiths are usually able to make a standard key, however, replacing a transponder key or smart key requires specialized equipment that the dealership will have to offer.
Locksmiths can copy keys from traditional keys, however when the key isn't properly programmed, it might not function correctly. Locksmiths can offer the programming service, but in the event that you don't have the original key, you'll need to get it towed to the dealer so they can electronically pair the new chip to your vehicle. In some instances, this will take several days to complete and you should be prepared for a wait in case you lose your smart key.
Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance is an added-on coverage you can get through your car insurance provider or through third-party providers like credit card companies and AARP. It covers a variety of services like towing, fuel delivery and locksmith services. You may be covered for the cost of a hotel room or rental car in the event of your vehicle breaking down.
The type of car key you have will affect the ease with which you can locate your way back to your car in the event you are locked out. For example, traditional keys are fairly simple and can be copied by most locksmiths on the spot. However, if your vehicle is equipped with a laser-cut smart key that needs to be programmed by the dealer, it can take a lot longer and will probably cost more to get one replaced with your vehicle.
You don't know the moment when your keys break or go missing and it's a good idea to keep a few spare sets on hand. You can also buy a Bluetooth key tracker to connect to your keys, which will emit a signature that you can then connect to an app on your smartphone 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 an ob-lock or a newer one with keyfob. The teeth on your car key may start to wear out, for instance, or you could notice that keys only open the doors a little at a time when you turn it. If car key replacement notice that the teeth of your car key are starting to wear down, it's recommended to call roadside assistance to get the key replaced.
Many auto insurance companies offer roadside assistance as part of their comprehensive policies. This protection will save you money on a new fob or key in the event that your vehicle is stolen or is lost. It's crucial to weigh the savings against the insurance deductible, as well as the time it will take to file a claim.