Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me
Losing your car key can be a stressful event. Many AutoZone stores offer key cutting services that will help you get back to the road in no time.
For less than $10, you can get an old-fashioned metal key at any AutoZone. Dealers can offer more advanced options, such as an electronic key fob, a switchblade or a transponder chip.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys consist of a single metal shaft and head that are inserted into the lock. They've been used for decades and, while they may not be as practical as the latest fobs or push-to start systems, they are more efficient than other options. They are simple to use, inexpensive and provide a physical security measure. The traditional keys are also robust and last longer than the vehicle.
The majority of AutoZone stores can substitute a standard key. The procedure is easy. Bring your current key to the store and an associate will match it to the blank key that's designed for your car's year and make. The key cutting machine will trace the key's original contours and make a duplicate key with exactly the same form. It takes just minutes and is much less expensive than purchasing an entirely new key from an outlet.
Some people prefer to purchase traditional keys online to get them quickly. This is a great alternative if you don't have much time to wait for a locksmith or in case you don't want to pay for the replacement of a key from a dealership. Be aware that this method could cost more than a professional locksmith especially if you need an alternative key that has chip in it.
Some disadvantages of using traditional keys include the fact that they're more difficult to use when you're carrying luggage, groceries, or kids with both hands. If they are not securely stored in your keychain or pocket they could easily get 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 aspect to be aware of is that if you lose your traditional key, it could be necessary to see an experienced locksmith in your vehicle to install the new ignition. This procedure may take a bit longer than a standard key replacement, however it will save you money in the end, by making it less necessary to pay locksmiths to replace your car keys.
Key Fobs
A few years ago the time of misplacing a car keys was not a major issue. It would cost you some money to get a locksmith to make the replacement however it wasn't a huge hassle. Modern cars employ sophisticated technology, and keys that are lost can be an absolute pain in the neck to replace.
Key fobs, small plastic devices that can lock and unlock your vehicle by pressing one button. It can also deactivate the alarm, or arm it, and then open the trunk. They transmit a signal through radio waves to the key reader located in the ignition of your car that then tells the vehicle to open its doors and begin the engine. Fobs can also be used to control home security systems.
It is essential to keep an extra key in case you own fob. You'll avoid the hassle and expense of having to pay a dealer to cut and program a key which could cost over $200. If you own a brand new car, check your car-insurance policy or auto club membership to determine whether they will cover the cost of replacing a lost key fob.
Another option to save money is to purchase an aftermarket fob on the internet. In most cases, you can get a basic fob for half the price of what you would buy from a dealer. It is still necessary to have the key fob cut and programmed by a locksmith.
Many locksmiths charge per hour to cut and program a replacement fob. The price can vary depending on your car model, year and key fob features. Be aware that smart fobs can be more difficult to program. You'll need to have the owner's manual for the specific vehicle and follow the steps to reset them.
A key fob can also be handy for apartments that don't have locks on every door. You can use the fob to unlock the door so you won't be locked out when carrying groceries into.
Smart Keys Keys
A smart key contains a microchip that only the car's system can recognize. When it is inserted into an ignition, it triggers sensors that open the doors and turns on the engine. This kind of key has numerous benefits, including convenience and enhanced security. There are a few things you should be aware of before purchasing a key.
The majority of newer vehicles don't allow the use of traditional keys. To unlock and start a car, you need the key fob. Smart keys come with additional security features that help prevent theft. They are harder to intercept for thieves who are tech-savvy because they send a new frequency signal each when the door or trunk is closed. If the smart key battery goes out, the vehicle can still be operated by an alternative ignition key.
Smart keys also allow you to lock your car remotely with an app on your smartphone. auto car key replacement is beneficial in situations where you must leave your vehicle unattended while taking groceries out of the trunk or taking a trip out for lunch. It is important to remember that if your phone is lost, it will not be able to unlock your car or even start it.
If you lose a smart key you'll need to contact roadside assistance to bring a tow truck and take it to the dealership and they can replace it. A locksmith can make a traditional car key but a smart key or transponder requires specialized equipment. The dealership must provide this.
A traditional key can be copied at a locksmith, but the new key might not function properly when it's not programmed correctly. If you don't own the original key, a locksmith can do the programming, but you will have to bring it back to the dealership to electronically pair the computer chip. In some cases it can take several days to complete so be prepared for a wait in case you have lost your smart key.
Roadside Assistance
You can include roadside assistance in your auto insurance policy, or obtain it through third-party providers like credit card companies or AARP. It usually covers the cost of a variety of services, such as towing or locksmith services, as well as fuel delivery. It may also cover the cost of a rental car or hotel stay when your vehicle fails to start.
The kind of car key you have can impact the ease with which you can get back into your vehicle in the event of being locked out. For instance, traditional keys are fairly simple and can be copied by most locksmiths on the spot. But, if your car is equipped with a laser-cut, programmable smart key that needs to be programmed by the dealer, it could take a lot longer and could cost more money to have it re-paired to your vehicle.
It's difficult to know the moment when your car keys will be lost or damaged, but it's a good idea to purchase a couple of spare sets to ensure you always have one in your possession. You can also buy a Bluetooth tracker to connect to your keys. It will emit a signature which can be connected to a smartphone application to locate your lost keys.
Whether your car is a brand new model with a key fob or an older model with a mechanical key, there is a good possibility that you'll need to replace it at some point. The teeth on the car key could begin to wear down, for instance, or you might find that keys only open the doors a little at a time when you turn it. If you notice that the teeth of your car key are starting to wear out, it is a good idea for you to contact roadside assistance to have the key replaced.
Many auto insurance companies include roadside assistance in their comprehensive policies. Having this coverage can save you the cost of replacing a key or key fob in the event of theft or loss, but it's worth weighing the monetary savings against your insurance deductible, and the length of time it will be to make an insurance claim.
