Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me

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

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

Traditional Keys

Cars with traditional keys use a single metal key that has a shaft and head that fits into the lock. They've been used for decades and, while they might not be as user-friendly as the latest fobs or push-to-start systems, they have many advantages over other alternatives. They are simple to use, inexpensive, and offer an additional security measure. Traditional keys are durable, as well, and often outlast the vehicle itself.

If you have a standard key and would like 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 up with the blank key that's designed for your car's year, make, and model. The key cutting machine will trace the original contours, and then create an exact copy of the same shape. It only takes just a few minutes and is less expensive than paying for a replacement at a dealership.

Some people prefer to purchase traditional keys online to obtain them quickly. This is a great option if you do not have the time to wait for an auto locksmith, or if you do not want to pay for a dealership replacement key. Be aware that this method could cost more than a professional locksmith, particularly if you require a replacement key with chip in it.

A few downsides to traditional keys include the fact that they're more difficult to use when carrying groceries, luggage, or children with both hands. They also can easily get lost if they're not tucked securely in your keychain or pocket. They aren't as durable as other kinds of keys, and they don't have built-in tracking devices that can help you find them if they're lost.

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

Key Fobs

In the past, misplacing a car key was not a major issue. A locksmith would charge a small fee to replace your key however, it wasn't a big deal. Modern cars employ sophisticated technology, and keys that are lost can be an absolute headache to replace.

Key fobs are tiny plastic devices that can lock and unlock a vehicle with the press of a button, disarm or arm the alarm, and open the trunk. The key fobs work by sending a radio signal to the key reader in your car's ignition. This 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 a spare key handy if you own fob. This will allow you to avoid the stress and expense of having to pay for a dealership to cut and program a new key, which can run over $200. Check your auto club membership or car insurance policy to see whether it covers the cost of replacing fobs for keys that have been lost if you have a newer car.

Shopping online for an aftermarket fob is another option to save. Most of the time, you can find an ordinary fob for less than half the price of what you would pay at an outlet. However, you'll need to cut it and programmed by a locksmith, or a company that offers this service.

Many locksmiths charge by the hour to cut and program a replacement fob. The cost can differ based on the model of your car and year as well as key fob features. If you own a smart fob, be aware they are sometimes more difficult to program. You'll need the owner's guide for your particular vehicle and follow the steps for resetting 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 won't be locked out when taking groceries into.

Smart Keys

A smart key has an embedded microchip that only the car's system recognize. When inserted into the ignition, it triggers a sensor that opens the doors and switches on the engine. This kind of key has many benefits, such as convenience and security. There are a few things you should know before buying one.

Most newer cars do not permit the use of traditional keys. To unlock and start a vehicle, you need a key fob. Smart keys also come with security features to help stop theft. The fact that they transmit an alternate frequency signal every time the trunk is opened or the door is closed, for example it makes them difficult for tech-savvy thieves to intercept. Additionally, 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 smart keys is the ability to lock the car remotely using an app on a smartphone. This is helpful in situations where you must leave your car unattended while loading groceries in the trunk or going out for lunch. It is important to remember that if your mobile phone is lost, it won't be able unlock your car or start it.

If you have lost your smart key contact roadside assistance to arrange a tow towards the dealership where they will be able to replace it. Locksmiths are usually able to make a traditional key, however, replacing a transponder or smart key will require special equipment that the dealership will have to offer.

A traditional key can be copied at a locksmith, but the new key might not function correctly in the event that it's not properly programmed. If you don't have the original, locksmiths can perform the programming, but you'll need to have it towed back to the dealer to pair the chip with the computer. This could take a few days in certain instances. Be ready to wait if you've lost your smart key.

Roadside Assistance

Roadside assistance is an additional protection that you can obtain through your car insurance company or through third-party providers such as credit card companies and AARP. It covers a broad range of services like towing, fuel delivery and locksmith services. It may also cover the costs of a rental car or hotel stay in the event that your vehicle fails to start.

The type of car keys you have will affect the ease with which you can find your way back into your vehicle in the event you are locked out. Locksmiths are able to copy traditional keys, which are simple. If your car has a laser cut, programmable smart key that has to be programmed by the dealer, it will take longer and cost more to get an entirely new key fitted to your vehicle.

It's difficult to know the time when your car keys could be lost or damaged, but it's a good idea to invest in a couple of extra sets so you always have one on hand. You can also buy a Bluetooth tracker to connect to your keys. It will emit a signature which can be connected to a smartphone app to locate your lost key.

You might need to replace your mechanical key at some point, whether it's an older model with an ob-lock or a newer one that has keyfob. The teeth of your car key may start to wear down, for instance, or you might find that the key opens only the doors only a at a time when you turn it. If you notice that the teeth of your car key are beginning to wear down, it's recommended to call roadside assistance and have the key replaced.

Many insurance companies provide roadside assistance as part of their comprehensive policies. Having this coverage can save you the cost of replacement car key of paying for a Replacement Car Keys With Chips key or key fob in the case of loss or theft However, it's important to weigh the savings in money against your insurance deductible, and how much time it could be to file an insurance claim.