Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me

Losing your car key is a stressful and traumatic experience. Fortunately, many AutoZone locations provide key cutting services to help you get back on the road quickly.

You can buy replacements for traditional keys made of metal at any AutoZone location for less than $10. For more advanced options such as keys fobs, a switchblade key or transponder chip key, you'll have to go to an agent.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys consist of only a single shaft of metal and head that fits into the lock. These keys have been the standard for a long time. While they aren't as convenient as the latest fobs and push-to-start systems, they still have many advantages over other options. They are easy to use, cost-effective and provide a physical security measure. Keys made of traditional materials are durable, and they can even outlast the car itself.

If you have a standard key and you want to replace it, the process is straightforward at most 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 and make. Then, the key cutting machine will trace the key's original contours and create a duplicate with exactly the same shape. It takes only a few minutes, and it's less expensive than purchasing a replacement car keys price at a dealership.

Some people order traditional keys online in order to receive them as fast as possible. This is a great option if you do not have the time to wait for an auto locksmith, or if you don't want to pay for a dealership replacement key. This method could cost more than hiring a locksmith particularly if the key you require is a chip.

A few disadvantages to using traditional keys include the fact that they're more difficult to use when carrying groceries, luggage, or kids with both hands. They can also easily become lost if they're not placed securely into your purse or keychain. They aren't as durable as other kinds of keys and don't come with integrated tracking devices to assist you in finding them if they get lost.

If you lose your standard car key, you'll require a professional automotive technician to install a brand new ignition. This service may take longer than a regular key replacement, however it will save you money in the end by not having to employ a locksmith to replace your car keys.

Key Fobs

In the past when keys went missing from cars, it was not a major issue. A locksmith would charge a small amount to replace your key, but it was not a big deal. But, modern cars utilize advanced technology, and a lost key fob can be a real headache to replace.

Key fobs, which are small plastic devices, can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button, disarm the alarm, or arm it, and open the trunk. Key fobs function by sending a radio signal to the key reader in the ignition of your vehicle. This is then a signal to the vehicle to start its engine and open the doors. Fobs can be used to control security systems at home.

If you own a fob, it is essential to keep a spare key somewhere handy. You'll avoid the hassle and expense of having to pay an individual dealer to cut and program a key, which could cost you more than $200. If you own a newer vehicle, make sure you check your car insurance policy or auto club membership to determine if they cover the cost of replacing keys that have been lost.

Another option to save money is to buy an aftermarket fob on the internet. Most of the time, you can find a basic fob for less than the cost you would buy from the dealer. You'll still need to have the key fob programmed and cut by locksmiths.

Many locksmiths charge an hourly rate to cut and program a replacement car key costs key fob. The price can vary depending on the model of your car, year and key fob features. Be aware that smart fobs could be more difficult to program. You'll need the owner's manual for your particular vehicle and follow the steps to reset them.

A key fob can also be useful for apartments that 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 carrying groceries in.

Smart Keys

A smart key is a microchip only the car's system can recognize. When the smart key is inserted in the ignition the sensor opens the doors and begins the engine. This type of key has numerous advantages, including security and convenience. However, there are a few things to consider before purchasing one.

The majority of modern vehicles do not accept traditional keys. To unlock and start a vehicle you will require the key fob. Smart keys also have added security features that aid in protecting against theft. They are more difficult to steal for thieves with a technological edge since they send a different frequency signal every when the door or trunk is shut. In addition, if the battery for the smart key runs out the car will operate with a backup key that could be put into the ignition.

Another benefit of a smart key is the ability to lock the car remotely with the app on a smartphone. This is beneficial if you need to leave your vehicle unattended while packing groceries into the trunk or heading out for lunch. But, it is important to keep in mind that when you lose your phone it won't be able to unlock or start your car.

If you have lost your smart key, call roadside assistance to schedule a tow towards the dealership where they can replace it. Locksmiths are usually able to create a traditional key however, replacing a transponder key or smart key requires specialized equipment that the dealership will have to supply.

A locksmith can copy a traditional key replacements for cars, but if the key is not properly programmed, it might not function properly. Locksmiths can offer the programming service, however if you don't own the original, you'll need to take it to the dealership so they can connect the new computer chip with your vehicle. In some cases, this will take several days to complete, so be prepared to wait for it if you lose your smart key.

Roadside Assistance

Roadside assistance is an added-on insurance plan that you can purchase through your car insurance company or through third-party companies like credit card companies and AARP. It usually covers the cost of a wide range of services, including towing as well as locksmith services and fuel delivery. You could also be covered for the cost of a hotel room or rental car if your vehicle breaks down.

The kind of car key you have can impact how easy it is to find your way back into your car in the event of being locked out. For instance keys that are traditional are easy to copy and can be duplicated by most locksmiths on spot. But, if your car is equipped with a laser-cut, programmable smart key that has to be programmed by the dealer, it could take a long time and may cost replacement car key more money to have it replaced with your vehicle.

It's impossible to know the time when your car keys could go missing or break down however it's a good idea buy a few additional sets so that you always have one in your possession. You can also buy a Bluetooth key tracker to attach to your keys, which emits a unique signature that you can then connect to an app on your smartphone to track your keys.

You may need to replace your mechanical key at some point, regardless of 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 only opens the door a bit when you turn the key. If you notice that the teeth of your car key are starting to wear out, it is an ideal idea to call roadside assistance to get the key replaced.

Many auto insurance companies include roadside assistance as part of their comprehensive policies. Having this coverage will save you the expense of a replacement keys car key or key fob in the event of theft or loss, but it's worth weighing the savings in money against the insurance deductible and the length of time it will take to file an insurance claim.