Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me
Losing your car keys can be a stressful event. Fortunately, a number of AutoZone locations offer key cutting services that can help you get back on the road quickly.
For less than $10, you can purchase the traditional metal key at any AutoZone. For more advanced options like a key fob, switchblade key or transponder chip key, you'll need go to an authorized dealer.
Traditional Keys
Cars that have traditional keys use only one metal key with the shaft and head that fit inside the lock. They have been in use for a long time and, although they may not be as convenient as the latest fobs or push-to start systems, they offer many advantages over other options. They're inexpensive, easy to locate and use, and provide a physical source of security. Traditional keys are durable as well, and often outlast the vehicle itself.
If you have an ordinary key and need to replace it the process is fairly straightforward at most AutoZone locations. Bring your key to the store and an associate will match it with the blank key that's designed for your car's year model, make, and year. The key cutting machine will trace the original contours and make a copy with the exact same shape. It takes only about a minute and is much less costly than paying for a replacement at the dealership.
Some people prefer to purchase traditional keys online in order to receive them quickly. This could be a good option if there isn't much time to wait for a locksmith or when you don't wish to invest in a dealership key replacement. But be aware that this method can cost more than a professional locksmith, especially if you require an alternative key that has a chip in it.
A few disadvantages to traditional keys are the fact that they're harder to use when you're carrying luggage, groceries, or even kids using both hands. They can also easily become lost if they're not tucked securely into your pocket or keychain. They aren't as durable as some other kinds of keys and don't have integrated tracking devices to aid in finding them should they get lost.
Another thing to keep in mind is that in the event that you lose your original key, it could be necessary to contact a professional automotive locksmith to install a new ignition. This service is more time-consuming than a regular key replacement, but it will be worth it in the end to avoid having to spend additional money for a locksmith car key replacement.
Key Fobs
It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys was not a major issue. It could cost just a few dollars to have a locksmith make the replacement, but it wasn't a huge hassle. However, modern cars use advanced technology, and a lost key fob can be a real headache to replace.
Key fobs are small, plastic devices that can lock and unlock a vehicle with the press of a button, arm or disarm the alarm, and open the trunk. They function by sending signals via radio waves to the key reader inside the ignition of your car, which then tells the vehicle to open its doors and start the engine. Fobs can be used to regulate security systems at home.
It is crucial to keep an extra key on hand if you have a fob. You will save yourself the hassle and expense of paying an expert to cut and program a new key, which could cost you more than $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 have a newer car.
Another option is to buy an aftermarket fob online. It is possible to find an ordinary key fob for about half the price that you'd pay at a dealer. You'll still need to have the key fob programmed and cut by a locksmith.
Many locksmiths charge per hour to cut and program a replacement 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, be aware that they are sometimes more difficult to program. You'll need the owner's guide for your car and to reset them, you'll need to follow the instructions.
Key fobs are also beneficial for apartments that don't have locks on all doors. Fobs can be used to unlock the door, meaning you don't have to worry about getting locked out while carrying groceries inside.
Smart Keys
A smart key is a microchip only the car system is able to recognize. When the smart key is inserted in the ignition, a sensor opens the doors and starts the engine. This kind of key has numerous benefits, including convenience and increased security. There are a few things you should be aware of before purchasing a key.
The majority of modern vehicles do not accept traditional keys. Rather they require a key fob or smart key to unlock and start the vehicle. Smart keys come with additional security features to help stop theft. The fact that they transmit an alternate frequency signal each time the door is opened or trunk is closed, for instance it makes them difficult for thieves who are tech-savvy to snare. Additionally, if the smart key battery depletes it will function with a backup key that can be inserted into the ignition.
Smart keys also let you to lock your car remotely using an app on your smartphone. This is helpful if you need to leave your car unattended when loading groceries in the trunk or going out for lunch. However, it is important to keep in mind that in the event that you lose your phone, it will not be able to unlock or start your vehicle.
If you lose a smart key, you'll need to call roadside assistance and request a tow truck to the dealership and they can replace it. A locksmith can usually make a traditional key, but replacing a transponder or smart key requires special equipment that the dealership will have to supply.
A traditional key can be copied by a locksmith, but the new key may not function properly when it's not programmed correctly. If you don't own the original, locksmiths can carry out the programming, but you'll need to have it towed back to the dealership to pair the chip with the computer. In some instances it can take several days to complete, so be prepared for a wait in case you lose your smart keys.
Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance is an add-on insurance plan that you can purchase through your car insurance company or through third-party providers like credit card companies and AARP. It usually covers the cost of a range of services, including towing as well as locksmith services and fuel delivery. It can also cover costs of a rental car or hotel stay in the event that your vehicle breaks down.
If you're locked out of your vehicle, the type of key you have will affect how easy it is for you to gain access. For instance traditional keys are simple and can be copied by most locksmiths on the spot. However, if your vehicle is equipped with a laser-cut smart key that has to be programmed by the dealer, it could take a bit longer and may cost more money to have it re-paired to your vehicle.
It's impossible to predict the moment when your keys break or disappear, so it's best to have a few extra sets in your possession. replace car key by vin number online uk can also purchase a Bluetooth key tracker to connect to your keys. It emits a unique signature that you can connect to an app on your phone to locate your keys.
If your car is a newer model with key fobs or an older model that has only a mechanical key, there is a good possibility that you'll need to replace it at some time. The teeth of your car key might begin to wear out, for instance, or you could discover that the key only opens the doors a tiny bit when you turn it. If you suspect that your car key is starting to wear down it's a good idea to get assistance at the roadside and get the key replaced as quickly as you can.
Many auto insurance companies offer roadside assistance as part of their comprehensive policies. This coverage can help you avoid the expense of a replacement key or key fob in the case of loss or theft, but it's worth weighing the savings in money against your insurance deductible and the length of time it will be to file an insurance claim.