Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me
Losing your car key is a stressful and traumatic experience. Fortunately, a lot of AutoZone locations offer key cutting services to help you get back on the road in a hurry.
You can buy replacements for traditional keys made of metal at any AutoZone location for less than $10. Dealers can provide you with more advanced options, such as a key fob or switchblade, or a transponder chip.
Traditional Keys
Cars that have traditional keys use a single metal key that has the shaft and head that fits into the lock. These keys have been used as the standard for a long time, and although they're not as practical as the latest fobs and push-to-start devices, they have many advantages over other alternatives. They are easy to use, cost-effective, and offer physical security. Keys made of traditional materials are durable, too, and can often outlast the vehicle itself.
If you own an ordinary key and want to replace it, the process is fairly straightforward at a majority of AutoZone locations. Bring your key to the store, and an associate will match it with a blank key made specifically for your car's model year, year, and make. Then, the key cutting machine will trace the original contours of the key and make a duplicate of exactly the same shape. It only takes just a few minutes and is much less costly than purchasing a replacement at the dealership.
Some people order traditional keys online in order to get them as soon as possible. This is a great alternative if you don't have much time to wait for a locksmith to arrive or when you don't wish to pay for the replacement of a key from a dealership. But be aware that this method can cost more than a professional locksmith, especially if you need a replacement key with chip inside it.
A few downsides to using traditional keys include the fact that they're more difficult to use when carrying groceries, luggage, or even kids using both hands. If they're not securely tucked into your keychain or pocket they could easily be lost. They're not as durable as other key types and don't come with tracking devices that will aid you in finding them if you lose them.
If click hyperlink lose your standard car key, you will have to speak with an expert automotive technician to install a brand new ignition. This procedure may take a bit longer than a standard key replacement, but it will save you money in the end by preventing you from needing to hire an 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 problem. A locksmith would charge a small amount to replace your key, but it was not an issue. Modern cars have advanced technology and replacing a lost key could be a major problem.
Key fobs, which are small plastic devices, can lock and unlock your vehicle with the push of one button. They can also disarm the alarm, or arm it, and then open the trunk. Key fobs function by sending a radio wave to the key reader that is installed in the ignition of your vehicle. This will then instruct the vehicle to start its engine and then open the doors. Fobs can be used to control security systems inside your home.
If you have an electronic fob, it's important to keep a spare key somewhere handy. You will avoid the hassle and expense of having to pay an expert to cut and program a new key, which could cost over $200. Check your auto club membership or insurance policy to see if it covers the cost of replacing fobs for keys that have been lost if you own a vehicle that is newer.
Online shopping for a replacement fob is another option to save. Often, you can find an ordinary fob for less than less than the cost you would spend at an outlet. However, you'll need to cut it and have it programmed at a locksmith or a company that provides that service.
Many locksmiths charge by the hour to cut and program a replacement fob. The price may vary depending on the kind of car you own, the model year and key fob's functions. Be aware that smart fobs could be more difficult to program. You'll need to have the owner's manual for your particular vehicle and follow the instructions 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, so you don't have to fret about being locked out while carrying groceries inside.
Smart Keys Keys
A smart key has an embedded microchip that only the car's system is able to recognize. When it is inserted into the ignition, it activates a sensor that opens the doors and turns on the engine. This kind of key comes with many benefits, including added security and convenience. However, there are a few things to know before buying one.
Modern cars don't accept traditional keys. To unlock and start a vehicle you will require a key fob. Smart keys also have added security features that can help protect against theft. They are harder to intercept for tech-savvy thieves because they transmit a new frequency signal each time the trunk or door is shut. Additionally in the event that the battery of the smart key is depleted it will function with a backup key that can be put into the ignition.
Smart keys also let you to lock your car remotely with an app on your smartphone. This is helpful when you have to leave your car unattended while loading groceries in the trunk or heading out for lunch. It is crucial to remember that if your phone is lost, it will not be able unlock your car or start it.
If you lose a smart key, you will need to call roadside assistance and request a tow truck to the dealership, where they will be able to replace it. Locksmiths can typically make a traditional key, however, replacing a transponder key or smart key requires specialized equipment that the dealership will be able to offer.
A locksmith can copy keys from traditional keys, however in the event that the key isn't programmed correctly, it may not function properly. If you don't own the original, a locksmith can do the programming, but you will have to bring it back to the dealer in order to electronically pair the chip on your computer. In some cases, this will take several days to complete and you should be prepared to wait for it if you lose your smart keys.
Roadside Assistance
You can add roadside assistance to your auto insurance policy, or purchase it from third-party suppliers such as credit card companies or AARP. It covers a wide range of services including towing, fuel delivery and locksmith services. It may also cover the cost of a rental car or hotel stay when your vehicle fails to start.
If you're locked out of your car, the kind of key you have will affect how easy it is for you to get back inside. For example traditional keys are easy to copy and can be duplicated by most locksmiths on spot. If your vehicle has laser cut, programmable smart key that has to be programmed by the dealer, it will take longer and cost more to get a new key installed to your vehicle.
It's impossible to predict the moment when your car keys will disappear or become damaged however it's a good idea purchase a couple of spare sets to ensure you have one available. You can also buy a Bluetooth tracker that you can attach to your keys. It emits a unique signal that you can connect to a smartphone app to locate the lost key.
You may need to replace your mechanical key at some point, regardless of whether it's an older model with a keyfob or a newer one that has a keyfob. You may find that the teeth of your car key are starting to wear out, or that it only opens the door a bit when you turn the key. If you believe that your car key is beginning to wear out, it's a good idea call for assistance on the road and have the key replaced as quickly as possible.
Many auto insurers offer roadside assistance as part of their comprehensive policies. This protection can save you money on a new fob or key if your vehicle is stolen or is lost. It's crucial to evaluate the savings against the insurance deductible and the time required to submit a claim.