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Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me
Losing your car key can be a stressful event. Fortunately, a lot of AutoZone locations offer key cutting services to help you get back on the road as quickly as possible.
You can purchase replacement keys made of metal at any AutoZone location for less than $10. Dealers can provide you with more advanced options, such as an electronic key fob, a switchblade, automotive locksmith or a transponder chip.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys consist of 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 modern fobs or push-to-start systems, they have many advantages over other alternatives. They're inexpensive, easy to locate and use, and provide a physical means of security. Traditional keys are durable, and they can even outlast the car itself.
If you own a standard key and you want to replace it, the process is straightforward at most AutoZone locations. Bring your key to the store and an associate will match it with an uncut key that's designed for your car's year model, make, and year. Then, the key cutting machine will trace the original contours of the key and create a duplicate with exactly the same shape. It only takes a few minutes and is much less costly than buying a new one at a dealership.
Some people order traditional keys online in order to get them as quickly 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 invest in an auto dealer key replacement. This method may cost more than hiring a locksmith particularly if the key that you need is a chip.
Traditional keys can be a challenge when you're carrying your groceries, luggage or even children using both hands. If they're not properly stored in your keychain or pocket they could easily get lost. They're not as robust as other keys and don't come with tracking devices that can aid you in finding them if you lose them.
Another thing to keep in mind is that in the event that you lose your original key, it may be necessary to visit a professional automotive locksmith for the installation of a new ignition. This process may take longer than a regular key replacement, but it will save you money in the end, by not having to employ an locksmith to replace your car key.
Key Fobs
In the past when keys went missing from cars, it wasn't really a big deal. A locksmith would charge a small amount to replace your key but it wasn't an issue. Modern automobiles are equipped with sophisticated technology and a replacement key can be a huge hassle.
Key fobs are tiny plastic devices that can lock and unlock a vehicle at the push of a button, arm or disarm the alarm, and then open the trunk. They transmit a signal through radio waves to the key reader in the ignition of your car and then instructs the vehicle to open its doors and start the engine. Fobs can also be used to control home security systems.
If you have an electronic fob, it's essential to keep an extra key in your pocket. You will avoid the hassle and cost of paying an expert to cut and program a key which can cost upwards of $200. If you own a newer car, check your car-insurance policy or auto club membership to determine if they cover the cost of replacing a lost key fob.
Shopping online for an aftermarket fob is another option to save. It is possible to find a basic key fob at around half the price you'd pay at a dealership. However, you'll need to cut it and programmed at a locksmith or a company that offers this service.
Many locksmiths charge an hourly rate to cut and program a new key fob. The cost can vary based on the type of vehicle you own, the model year, and the key fob's features. Be aware that smart fobs may be more difficult to program. You'll need the owner's manual for the specific vehicle and follow the steps to reset them.
Key fobs are also useful for apartment buildings without locks on all doors. Fobs can be used to unlock the door, which means 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 placed into the ignition the sensor opens the doors and starts the engine. This type of key comes with many benefits, such as convenience and security. However there are some things to know before purchasing one.
Modern cars don't accept traditional keys. To unlock and start your vehicle, you need a key fob. Smart keys also come with security features that assist in preventing theft. The fact that they transmit a different frequency signal each time the trunk is opened or the door is closed, for instance, makes them harder for thieves with a technological edge to steal. If the battery for the smart key goes out, the vehicle 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 beneficial if you need to leave your car unattended when packing groceries into the trunk or heading out for lunch. It is important to remember that if your phone gets lost, it won't be able to unlock your car or start it.
If you lose your smart keys, call roadside assistance for a tow into the dealership so they can replace it. Locksmiths can create a traditional car key however a smart key, or transponder requires specialized equipment. The dealership has to supply this.
A traditional key can be copied at locksmiths, but the new key may not function properly if it isn't programmed correctly. If you don't own the original, locksmiths can carry out the programming, but you will require it to be towed back to the dealership to electronically pair the chip on your computer. This can take several days in some instances. Be prepared to wait you've lost your smart keys.
Roadside Assistance
You can include roadside assistance in 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 or locksmith services, as well as fuel delivery. You could be covered for the cost of a hotel room or rental car in the event of your vehicle breaking down.
The type of car key you own can affect how easy it is to locate your way back to your vehicle in the event of being locked out. Locksmiths are able to copy traditional keys, which are simple to duplicate. However, if your vehicle has a laser-cut, programmable smart key that must be programmed by the dealer, it will take a long time and may cost more money to have it changed to match your car key replacement service near me.
It's impossible to know the time when your car keys could go missing or break down, but it's a good idea invest in a couple of extra sets so you always have one available. You can also buy a Bluetooth key tracker to attach to your keys. It emits a unique signature that you can connect to an app on your phone to track your keys.
You may need to replace your mechanical key at some point, whether it's an older model that has keyfob, or a more modern one that has a keyfob. The teeth on the car key could begin to wear down for instance, or you might notice that the key only opens the doors a little at a time when you turn it. If you notice that the teeth of your car key are beginning to wear out, it's recommended to call roadside assistance to get the key replaced.
Many auto insurers offer roadside assistance as part of their comprehensive policies. This coverage will save you the expense of a replacement key or fob in the case of loss or theft However, it's important to weigh the monetary savings against your insurance deductible, and how long it would take to file an insurance claim.