Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me

The loss of your car keys can be a very stressful experience. Fortunately, many AutoZone locations provide key cutting services that can assist you in getting back on the road quickly.

You can purchase replacement metal keys at any AutoZone location for less than $10. Dealers can offer more advanced options, like an electronic key fob, a switchblade, or a transponder chip.

Traditional Keys

Cars that use traditional keys use one key made of metal with a shaft and head that fit inside the lock. They have been in use for a long time, and while they might not be as practical as the latest fobs or push-to start systems, they have many advantages over other options. They're inexpensive, easy to locate and use, and provide a physical source of security. The traditional keys are durable and last longer than the car keys.

If you have an ordinary key and would like to replace it, the process is straightforward at a majority of AutoZone locations. Bring your current key to the store and an associate will match it to an uncut key that's designed for your vehicle's year, make, and model. The key cutting machine will trace the key's original contours and create a duplicate with exactly the same shape. It takes only some minutes and is less expensive than buying an entirely new key from the dealer.

Some people like to order traditional keys online to get them quickly. This is a good choice if you do not have the time for an auto locksmith, or if you do not want to pay for a dealership replacement key. But be aware that this option could cost more than a professional locksmith, especially if you require a replacement key with chip inside it.

A few disadvantages to using traditional keys include the fact that they're more difficult to use when you're carrying luggage, groceries, or children with both hands. They are also prone to getting lost if they're not kept securely into your purse or keychain. They're not as durable as other key types and don't come with tracking devices that will assist you in locating them should you lose them.

If you lose your traditional car key, you will require a professional automotive technician to install a new ignition. This service may take longer than a typical key replacement, but it will save you money by not having to hire an locksmith to replace your car key.

Key Fobs

Not so long ago the time of misplacing a car keys wasn't really a big deal. It would cost you a little money to have a locksmith create a replacement, but it wasn't a huge hassle. Modern cars employ sophisticated technology and a lost key fob can be a real hassle to replace.

Key fobs are tiny plastic devices that lock and unlock a vehicle with the press of a button. They also allow you to disarm or arm the alarm, and open the trunk. The key fobs operate by sending a radio signal to the key reader in the ignition of your car. The reader will then instruct the vehicle to start its engine and open the doors. Fobs can also be used to control home security systems.

It is important to have an extra key on hand if you own a fob. You'll save yourself the hassle and expense of paying an expert to cut and program a key, which could cost over $200. Check your auto club membership or insurance policy to see if it covers the cost of replacing lost keys fobs, if you own a newer vehicle.

Online shopping for an aftermarket key fob is another way to save. In most cases, you can get an ordinary fob for less than half the price of what you'd spend at a dealer. However, you'll need to cut it and programmed by a locksmith or a company that provides that service.

Many locksmiths charge an hourly fee to program and cut a replacement key fob. The cost will vary based on the type of vehicle you have, the model year and key fob's functions. If you own a smart fob, you should be aware that they are sometimes more difficult to program. You'll need to have the owner's manual for your specific vehicle and follow the instructions for resetting them.

A key fob can also be useful for apartment buildings that don't have a lock on every door. Fobs can be used to unlock the door, so you don't need to worry about being locked out when carrying groceries inside.

Smart Keys Keys

A smart key is an embedded microchip that only the car's system can recognize. When the smart key is inserted in the ignition the sensor opens the doors and starts the engine. This kind of key has numerous benefits, including convenience and security. There are a few things you should be aware of prior to purchasing one.

Most modern cars do not accept traditional keys. To unlock and start your vehicle you require a key fob. Smart keys also come with security features that will assist in preventing theft. They are harder to intercept for tech-savvy thieves because they transmit a new frequency signal each when the door or trunk is closed. If the battery for the smart key is exhausted, the car can still be operated with the backup ignition key.

Smart keys also allow you to lock your car remotely using an app on your smartphone. This is helpful when you have to leave your car unattended when packing groceries into the trunk or going out for lunch. It is important to keep in mind that if your mobile phone is lost, it won't be able unlock your car or even start it.

If you lose your smart key, call roadside assistance to schedule an appointment to take it to the dealership where they will be able to replace it. A locksmith can usually make a traditional key, but replacing a transponder or smart key requires specialized equipment that the dealership will need to provide.

A traditional key can be copied by a locksmith, but the new key might not function correctly in the event that it's not properly programmed. Locksmiths can offer the programming service, however if you don't own the original, you'll have to get it towed to the dealership so that they can pair the new chip with your vehicle. It could take a while in certain instances. Be ready to wait if you've lost your smart keys.

Roadside Assistance

Roadside assistance is an add-on insurance plan that you can purchase through your insurance company for cars or through third-party companies like credit card companies and AARP. It covers a variety of services like towing, fuel delivery, and locksmith services. It may also cover the costs of a rental car or hotel stay when your vehicle is damaged.

If you're locked out of your car, the type of key you have will determine the ease of you to get back inside. For example, traditional keys are fairly simple and can be copied by a majority of locksmiths on the spot. However, if your vehicle has a laser-cut, programmable smart key that must be programmed by the dealer, it will take a bit longer and will probably cost more to have one changed to match your car.

It's impossible to know the time when your car keys could be lost car key replacement or damaged, but it's a good idea purchase a couple of extra sets so you always have one in your possession. You can also purchase a Bluetooth key tracker to attach to your keys. It will emit a signature that you can then connect to an app on your smartphone to locate your lost keys.

You might need to replace your mechanical key at some point, whether it's an older model that has an ob-lock or a newer one with a keyfob. You may observe that the teeth of your car key are starting to wear out, or that it opens the door a little when you turn the key. If you notice that the teeth of your car key are beginning to wear out, it is an ideal idea to call roadside assistance to replace the key.

A lot of auto insurance companies offer roadside assistance in their comprehensive policies. The coverage offered by this insurance can help you avoid the expense of paying for a replacement key or key fob in the event of theft or loss However, it's important to weigh the monetary savings against your insurance deductible, and how much time it could be to file a claim.