Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me
Losing your car keys could be a very stressful experience. Fortunately, a lot of AutoZone locations offer key cutting services to assist you in getting back on the road as quickly as possible.
For less than $10, you can purchase an old-fashioned metal key at any AutoZone. For more advanced options such as a key fob, key with switchblade or transponder key, you'll need go to an authorized dealer.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are one metal shaft and head that fits into the lock. These keys have been the standard for decades, and while they're not as efficient as the latest fobs and push-to-start systems, they have many advantages over other alternatives. They're affordable, simple to find and use, and offer a physical form of security. The traditional keys are also robust and last longer than a vehicle.
If you own a standard key and would like to replace it, the process is straightforward at a majority of AutoZone locations. Bring your key to the store and an associate will match it with a new key that is made specifically for your car's model year, make, and year. The key cutting machine will trace the original contours and create a copy with the exact same shape. It takes only about a minute and is much less costly than paying for a replacement at an auto dealer.
Some people order traditional keys online in order to receive them as fast as they can. This is a great alternative if you don't have long to wait for a locksmith, or if you don't want to pay for a dealership key replacement. Be aware that this option could cost more than a professional locksmith, especially if you require an alternative key that has chip in it.
Traditional keys can be a challenge when you are carrying luggage, groceries or children in both hands. If they are not securely stored in your keychain or pocket they could easily be 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 important thing to remember is that when you lose your standard key, it will likely be necessary to see an experienced locksmith in your vehicle to install a new ignition. This process may take longer than a typical key replacement, but it will save you money in the end by preventing you from needing to employ a locksmith to replace your car keys.
Key Fobs
A few years ago, misplacing a car key was not a huge issue. Locksmiths might charge a fee to replace your key but it wasn't a big deal. Modern automobiles come with advanced technology and replacing a lost key can be a real trouble.
Key fobs, which are small, plastic devices, are able to lock and unlock your vehicle by pressing one button. They can also disarm the alarm, or arm it, and then open the trunk. They transmit signals via radio waves to the key reader in the ignition of your vehicle, which then tells the vehicle to open its doors and begin the engine. Fobs can also be used to control home security systems.
It is crucial to keep an extra key on hand if you have a fob. You'll avoid the hassle and expense of having to pay a dealer to cut and program a key which could cost you more than $200. Check your auto club membership or insurance policy to see if it covers replacing fobs for keys that have been lost if you own a newer vehicle.
Another way to save is to purchase an aftermarket key fob online. You can often find a basic 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 locksmiths.
Many locksmiths charge by the hour to cut and program a replacement fob. The cost will vary based on the type of car 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. car key replacement near me mobile 'll need the owner's manual for your specific vehicle and follow the instructions for resetting them.
Key fobs can be handy for apartment buildings that don't have a lock on every door. Fobs can be used to unlock the door, meaning you don't have to worry about getting locked out when you are carrying your groceries in.
Smart Keys
A smart key contains a microchip that only the car's system recognize. When the smart key is put into the ignition it opens the doors and then starts the engine. This type of key offers many benefits, such as convenience and security. However, there are a few things to know before purchasing one.
Modern cars don't accept traditional keys. To unlock and start your vehicle you require an electronic key fob. Smart keys also come with security features that can help to prevent theft. They are difficult to track for thieves who are tech-savvy because they send a new frequency signal every when the door or trunk is shut. If the battery for the smart key is exhausted, the car can still be operated with an alternative ignition key.
Smart keys also let you to secure your vehicle remotely by using an app that you can download on your smartphone. This is helpful when you have to leave your car unattended while taking groceries out of the trunk or going out for lunch. However, it is important to keep in mind that when you lose your phone, it won't be able to unlock or start your car.
If you lose your smart key contact roadside assistance for an appointment to take it into the dealership so they can replace it. A locksmith can usually make a standard key, however, replacing a transponder or smart key requires special equipment that the dealership will need to offer.
A locksmith can copy a traditional key, but in the event that the key isn't properly programmed, it might not function correctly. A locksmith can provide the programming service, however in the event that you don't have the original, you'll need to bring it to the dealer so they can pair the new chip to your vehicle. In some cases, this will take several days to complete, so be prepared to wait for it if you lose your smart key.
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 usually covers the cost of a range of services, including towing as well as locksmith services and fuel delivery. You may be covered for the cost of a hotel room or rental car if your vehicle breaks down.
The kind of car key you own can affect the ease with which you can locate your way back to your car in the event of being locked out. For instance keys that are traditional are easy to copy and can be duplicated by a majority of locksmiths on the spot. If your car is equipped with laser cut, programmable, smart key that must be programmed by the dealer, it may take longer and cost more to get an entirely new key fitted to your vehicle.
It's difficult to know the time when your car keys could go missing or break down 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 tracker that you attach to your keys. It will emit a signature which you can connect to a smartphone application to locate your lost key.
If your car is a brand new model that has keys or an older one with a mechanical key, there's a good chance you will need to replace it at some point. You may find that the teeth of your car key are beginning to wear down, or that it will open the door a tiny bit when you turn the key. If you notice that the teeth of your car key are beginning to wear out, it's recommended to call roadside assistance and have the key replaced.
Many auto insurance companies include roadside assistance as part of their comprehensive policies. Having this coverage can save you the cost of replacing a key or key fob in the case of loss or theft however, it's worth weighing the savings in money against your insurance deductible and how much time it could be to submit a claim.