Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me

Losing your car keys could be a stressful and stressful experience. Many AutoZone stores provide key cutting services that can help you get back to the road in a hurry.

For less than $10, you can purchase a traditional metal key at any AutoZone. Dealers can offer more advanced options, like an electronic key fob, a switchblade or transponder chip.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are one metal shaft and head that fit into the lock. They have been in use for decades and, while they may not be as convenient as the newer fobs, or push-to start systems, they have many advantages over other options. They're affordable, simple to locate and use and offer a physical form of security. Traditional keys are durable, as well, and often outlast the vehicle itself.

If you have a standard key and need to replace it the process is fairly straightforward at most AutoZone locations. Bring your current key to the store and an associate will match it to the blank key that's made for your car's year and make. The key cutting machine will trace the original contours and make a copy with the exact same shape. It only takes about a minute and is less expensive than buying a new one at an auto dealer.

Some people prefer to purchase traditional keys online to get them quickly. This can be a good option if there isn't long to wait for a locksmith, or if you don't want to spend the money on a dealership key replacement. This method may cost more than hiring a locksmith particularly if the key you need is chipped.

Traditional keys can be difficult when you're carrying your groceries, luggage or children with both hands. They are also prone to getting lost if they're not placed securely in your purse or keychain. They're not as durable as other key types and don't come with integrated tracking devices to help you find them if they get lost.

If you lose your traditional car key, you'll require a professional automotive technician to install a brand new ignition. This service will take longer than a regular key replacement car key but it's worth it in the long run to prevent you from having to pay more for a locksmith car key replacement.

Key Fobs

It wasn't too long ago that the loss of a car key was not a huge issue. It cost a little money to get a locksmith to make an exchange however it wasn't a major hassle. But, modern cars utilize sophisticated technology, and a lost key fob can be an absolute hassle to replace.

Key fobs are small, plastic devices that lock and unlock vehicles at the press of a button. They can also disarm or arm the alarm, and also open the trunk. Key fobs function by sending a radio signal to the key reader in the ignition of your vehicle. This will then instruct the vehicle to start its engine and then open the doors. Fobs can be used to control security systems inside your home.

If you own a fob, it is essential to keep an extra key in your pocket. You'll avoid the hassle and cost of paying a dealer to cut and program a key, which could cost over $200. If you have a newer car, check your car-insurance policy or auto club membership to see whether they will cover the cost of replacing a lost key fob.

Another way to save is to buy an aftermarket fob online. You can usually find a basic key fob for about half the price that you'd pay at a dealer. But, you'll have to cut it and programmed by a locksmith or a company that provides that service.

Many locksmiths charge by the hour to cut and program a new fob. The cost can vary based on your car model, year and key fob features. If you have a sophisticated fob, you should be aware that these can sometimes be trickier to program. You will need the owner's guide for your vehicle and to reset them, you'll have follow the steps.

A key fob can also be useful for apartments which don't have locks on every door. You can use the fob to unlock the door so you don't get locked out when you're taking groceries into.

Smart Keys

A smart key has a microchip that only the car's system recognize. When it is inserted into an ignition, it activates sensors that open the doors and turns on the engine. This type of key comes with many advantages, including convenience and increased security. There are some things you need to be aware of prior to purchasing one.

Most newer cars do not allow the use of traditional keys. Rather, they require an electronic key fob or smart key to unlock and start the car. Smart keys also have added security features that help protect against theft. They are difficult to track for thieves who are tech-savvy because they transmit a new frequency signal every when the door or trunk is shut. If the battery for the smart key is exhausted, the car replacement key cost can still be operated by the backup ignition key.

Another benefit of smart keys is the capability to lock the car remotely with the app on a smartphone. This is helpful when you are required to leave your car in the garage unattended for instance, when you are loading groceries into the trunk or out for lunch. It is important to remember that if your phone is lost, you won't be able unlock your car or even start it.

If you lose a smart key, you'll need to contact roadside assistance and request a tow truck and take it to the dealership and they will be able to repair it. Locksmiths can create a traditional car key but a smart key or transponder requires special equipment. The dealership has to provide this.

A traditional key can be copied at an locksmith, however the new key might not function correctly when it's not programmed correctly. Locksmiths can offer the programming service, however if you don't have the original, you'll have to get it towed to the dealership so that they can electronically pair the new chip to your vehicle. This could take a few days in some cases. Be prepared to wait, if you've lost your smart keys.

Roadside Assistance

Roadside assistance is an additional coverage you can get through your car insurance company or through third-party providers like credit card companies and AARP. It covers a variety of services, including towing, fuel delivery and locksmith services. You may be covered for the cost of a hotel room or rental mobile car key replacement in the event of your vehicle breaking down.

If you're locked out of your vehicle, the type of key you've got will determine the ease of you to get back inside. Most locksmiths can easily duplicate traditional keys, which are easy to copy. If your vehicle has a laser cut, programmable, smart key that must be programmed by the dealer, it may take longer and cost more to get a new key installed to your vehicle.

It's impossible to predict when your keys replacement for cars will break or disappear and it's a good idea to have a few spare sets on hand. You can also buy a Bluetooth tracker that you can attach to your keys. It emits a unique signal that you can then connect to a smartphone app to locate the lost key.

If your car is a more modern model that has key fobs or an older model with a mechanical key, there's a good chance that you'll need replace it at some point. You might observe that the teeth of your car key are beginning to wear down or that it only will open the door a tiny bit when you turn the key. If you notice that the teeth of your car key are starting to wear down, it's an ideal idea to contact roadside assistance to replace the key.

Many insurance companies offer roadside assistance as part of their comprehensive policies. Having this coverage will save you the expense of replacing a key or key fob in the event of theft or loss however, it's worth weighing the monetary savings against your insurance deductible, and the length of time it will be to file a claim.