Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me
Losing your car key can be a stressful event. Many AutoZone stores offer key cutting services to help you get back to the road quickly.
For less than $10, you can get an old-fashioned metal key at any AutoZone. For more advanced options like the key fob, transponder chip or switchblade key, you'll have to visit a dealer.
Traditional Keys
Cars with traditional keys use only one metal key that has a shaft and head that fit inside the lock. These keys have been the standard for a long time, and although they're not as efficient as newer fobs or push-to-start devices, they provide a number of advantages over other options. They're easy to use, cost-effective, and offer a physical security measure. Keys made of traditional materials are durable, as well, and often outlast the vehicle itself.
Most AutoZone stores can substitute a standard key. The procedure is easy. Bring your key to the store and an associate will match it with a blank key designed specifically for your vehicle's model year, year, and make. The key cutting machine will trace the initial contours of the key and make a duplicate key with exactly the same form. It only takes about a minute and is much less costly than purchasing a replacement at the dealership.
Some people order traditional keys online in order to get them as quickly as they can. This is a good choice when you don't have the time to wait for an auto locksmith or you don't want to pay for a dealership replacement key. However, be aware that this method could cost more than a professional locksmith especially if you require a replacement key with chip inside it.
A few disadvantages to traditional keys are the fact that they're more difficult to use when carrying luggage, groceries, or children with both hands. If they are not securely placed in your pocket or keychain they could easily become lost. They're not as durable as some other types of keys and don't come with built-in tracking devices to aid in finding them should they get lost.
If you lose your traditional car key, then you'll require a professional automotive technician to install a brand new ignition. This procedure may take a bit longer than a regular key replacement, however it will save you money in the end by not having to hire an locksmith to replace your car keys.
Key Fobs
A few years ago, misplacing a car key wasn't really a big deal. It cost some money to have a locksmith make the replacement, but it wasn't too difficult. Modern cars are equipped with sophisticated technology and replacing a lost key can be a huge problem.
Key fobs are small, plastic devices that can lock and unlock vehicles at the push of a button. They also allow you to disarm or arm the alarm, and then open the trunk. They transmit a signal through radio waves to the key reader in the ignition of your car, which then tells the vehicle to open its doors and begin the engine. Fobs can be used to control security systems inside your home.
If you have an electronic fob, it's important to have an extra key on hand. This will save you the stress and expense of having to pay for a dealer to cut and program a new key, which could run over $200. Check your auto club membership or car insurance policy to determine if it covers the cost of replacing lost keys fobs, if you own a vehicle that is newer.
Shopping online for an aftermarket fob is another way to save. It is possible to find a basic key fob at about half the price that you'd pay at a dealer. But, you'll need to cut it and programmed at a locksmith or a company that provides the service.
Many locksmiths charge an hourly rate to program and cut a replacement key fob. The price may vary depending on the kind of car you own, the model year and the key fob's features. Be aware that smart fobs could be more difficult to program. You will require the owner's manual for your vehicle and to reset them, you'll need follow the steps.
Key fobs are also useful for apartment buildings without locks for all doors. You can use the fob to unlock the door so you won't be locked out when you're carrying groceries into.
Smart Keys Keys
A smart key is a microchip only the car 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 type of key offers many advantages, including convenience and increased security. However there are some points to be aware of prior to purchasing one.
The majority of newer vehicles don't allow the use of traditional keys. Instead they require a key fob or smart key to unlock and start the car. Smart keys have additional security features to help stop theft. They are more difficult to steal for thieves who are tech-savvy since they send a different frequency signal every when the door or trunk is shut. If the battery for the smart key runs out, the car can still be operated by an alternative ignition key.
Another benefit of smart keys is the capability to lock your vehicle remotely using the app on smartphones. This is helpful if you need to leave your car unattended while taking groceries out of the trunk or going out for lunch. It is crucial to remember that if you lose your phone, it will not be able to unlock or start your vehicle.
If you lose your smart key, call roadside assistance to arrange a tow to the dealership where they can exchange it. Locksmiths can typically create a traditional key however, replacing a transponder or smart key requires special equipment that the dealership will be able to supply.
Locksmiths can copy the traditional key, but when the key isn't properly programmed, it will not function correctly. If you don't own the original key, locksmiths can perform the programming, but you'll have to bring it back to the dealership to electronically pair the chip on your computer. In some cases it could take a few days to complete and you should be prepared to wait for it if you lose your smart keys.
Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance is an additional coverage you can get through your car insurance company or through third-party companies like credit card companies and AARP. It covers a broad range of services, including towing, fuel delivery and locksmith services. It could also cover the expenses of a rental vehicle or hotel stay when your vehicle is damaged.
The type of car key you have can impact the ease with which you can locate your way back to your car in the event you key car replacement are locked out. For example traditional keys are simple and can be copied by most locksmiths on spot. However, if your car is equipped with a laser-cut smart key that has to be programmed by the dealer, it can take a lot longer and will probably cost more to have one changed to match your car.
It's difficult to know when your car keys might be lost or damaged however it's a good idea to invest in a couple of extra sets so you always have one in your possession. You can also buy a Bluetooth tracker to attach to your keys. It emits a signature that you can connect to a phone app to locate your lost key.
It is possible to replace your mechanical key at some point, whether it's an older model with keyfob, or a more modern one that has a keyfob. You may find that the teeth of your car key are beginning to wear out or that it only opens the door a little when you turn the key. If you think your car key is starting to wear out it's a good idea call for assistance on the road and have the key replaced as quickly as you can.
Many insurance companies offer roadside assistance as part of their comprehensive policies. Having this coverage can help you avoid the expense of a replacement key or key fob in the event of theft or loss, but it's worth weighing the financial savings against your insurance deductible, and how long it would take to submit an insurance claim.